Applications open for 2027 Poche PhD Masterclass

Applications are now open for the 2027 Poche PhD Masterclass, a free one-day program for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander PhD scholars in Garramilla, ahead of the Lowitja Institute's conference.

Applications are now open for the 2027 Poche PhD Masterclass, a one-day program for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander PhD scholars, to be held in Garramilla (Darwin), on Larrakia Country, on Monday 7 June 2027.

This year's theme, Sovereign Indigenous Inquiry: Managing the Demands of Excellence in Two Worlds, centres on what it means to build a research career while navigating the often-misaligned expectations of academic and community life.

The program brings together keynote speakers, a panel discussion and small-group sessions where participants can present their own research, exchange ideas and build their networks. It is designed to give PhD scholars space to develop their communication skills alongside peers who understand the particular pressures of working across two knowledge systems.

The Masterclass is timed to run the day before the Lowitja Institute's 5th International Indigenous Health and Wellbeing Conference, allowing participants to stay on and continue conversations through the conference.

Attendance is free, though places are limited. Four types of bursary are available to support participation, covering combinations of registration, travel and accommodation for the Masterclass and the Lowitja conference.

To be eligible, applicants must be an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander PhD student, agree to join the Poche Newsletter, and be a current or prospective member of both the Lowitja Institute and the OCHRe Network.

Key dates:

  • Applications open: 14 September 2026
  • Applications close: 6 November 2026
  • Outcomes advised: 11 December 2026
  • Masterclass: Monday 7 June 2027

The Masterclass is delivered by the Melbourne Poche Centre for Indigenous Health, with funding and support from the OCHRe Network (UNITE and OWL Hubs) and the Lowitja Institute.

Applications and bursary requests can be submitted here