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The Barnett Researcher Award
Purpose
The Barnett Researcher Award supports emerging researchers who demonstrate curiosity, courage, and a strong commitment to advancing knowledge in mental health. It empowers individuals—especially those outside traditional research pathways—to explore meaningful questions and build a foundation for long‑term impact.
This scholarship is supported by the extraordinary generosity and vision of Dr Bryanne Barnett AM.
Value
Up to four scholarships will be offered in 2026. Each is valued up to $20,000 per year for two years (total up to $40,000) with the possibility of extended funding.
Eligibility
To apply, you must be a current RANZCP Fellow, Affiliate, or trainee in good standing with the RANZCP. Applicants must:
- Have developed comprehensible research plan
- Be in the process of seeking an affiliation with suitable supervisors such as University, research body or similar
- Have approval to carry out their research from an approved ethics committee; or evidence of working towards an application
The Award will not be limited to any specific sub-specialty or focus area of psychiatric research.
Use of funds
The Scholarship funds can be used for stipend support, research expenses, or a combination of both.
Terms of reference and funding rules
- Barnett Researcher Award Terms of Reference [PDF; 185KB]
- Scholarship funding rules [PDF; 62KB]
Key dates
Opening Monday 2 March 2026. Closes 31 August 2026.
Applications will be accepted over a six‑month period. This is longer than the standard application window. Potential applicants are encouraged to contact the Foundation at foundation@ranzcp.org for support when developing their proposal.
Application form
Sample application form [PDF; 235KB]
Past recipients of RANZCP Foundation scholarships
Hear from past scholarship recipients and learn how to apply.
Listen to the full podcast.
Dr Sean Halstead, 2024 Foundation Partners Ph D Scholarship [PDF; 3.49MB] - Exploration of the health burden of multiple chronic physical conditions in people living with severe mental illness
Dr Jackie Huber, 2024 Trisno Family PhD Scholarship [PDF; 3.49MB] - Psychiatric Emergency Care Centres: what are they good for?
Dr Malcolm Forbes, 2022 Trisno Family PhD Scholarship [PDF; 2.62MB] – The role of biomarkers in late-life depression: Data analysis of the Aspirin for the Prevention of Depression in the Elderly (ASPREE) study
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