Swinburne looks to the STaRS for global research talent

Swinburne University of Technology is advancing its commitment to research excellence through its new Swinburne Talented Researcher Scheme (STaRS), a strategic initiative designed to attract world-class research talent aligned with the university’s strategic priorities.

Swinburne is a globally recognised university ranked among the top 300 in the world, that is on a mission to bring people and technology together to build a better world. As a forward-thinking institution at the forefront of technological innovation and industry engagement, Swinburne is dedicated to developing the next generation of change-makers and visionary leaders. Our interdisciplinary research ecosystem is driven by a community of distinguished experts and supported by world-class facilities.

Swinburne’s Professor Karen Hapgood, Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Research, officially launched STaRS, highlighting its importance for the university’s future. 
 
“With the launch of the STaRS program, we’re creating new opportunities to bring outstanding research talent into the Swinburne community. We’re not just building a team, we’re nurturing a community dedicated to solving real-world challenges and shaping a better future for all,” said Professor Hapgood.

STaRS provides a framework for identifying, recruiting and supporting exceptional research talent globally. The program is designed to be flexible, adjusting to priorities in response to global events and changing environments. For 2025/2026, STaRS will prioritise the recruitment of Highly Cited Researchers (HiCi), international academics (particularly from the US), diversity in STEM, scholars affected by geopolitical disruptions and fellowship recipients. This includes researchers whose careers have been impacted by funding cuts, threats to academic freedom or discrimination.

STaRS is designed to ensure greater transparency and consistency across the university, adopting a unified “One Swinburne” approach to high quality research talent that can adapt to the profile and career stage of applicants. All appointments will align with one or more of Swinburne’s flagship research areas: Space and Aerospace, Manufacturing Futures, Innovative Planet, Innovative Society, MedTech and Health Innovation, and Digital Capability.

For enquires about STaRS or to start the process with a School-based nomination, please contact research@swin.edu.au.