Nathan Reynolds PhD brain research in his lab at JCSMR, the ANU College of Health & Medicine at ANU in Canberra, ACT, Australia, 13 December, 2023. (Tracey Nearmy/ANU)

Postgraduate Training Program: ANU RNA Research Training Network (RRTN)

This program supports PhD candidates at the Australian National University (ANU) undertaking research aligned with the NSW RNA Research and Training Network (NSW-RRTN) (addressing scientific, technical, regulatory, clinical, and ethical challenges), alongside a structured program of RNA-focused training, professional development and networking opportunities.

The RRTN is a collaborative initiative supported by the NSW Government, connecting universities and partner institutes across NSW and the ACT to strengthen RNA research capability and workforce development. The program supports high-calibre PhD candidates whose projects align with RRTN priority areas, and who will contribute to, and benefit from the Network’s training and engagement activities.

Eligibility

You must:

  • Be a domestic or international student (as applicable).
  • Be currently enrolled or determined eligible to enrol in an ANU PhD program. 
  • Applicants should be in the early stages of their PhD, normally within the first 12 months of candidature.
  • Commit to participating in RRTN program requirements (training modules, workshops and networking & a 3-month research internship).

Open date: currently open
Close date: Wednesday 15th April 2026

Round 2: TBA

How to apply

Please email all required documents to hdr.sdcri@anu.edu.au with the subject line: ANU-RRTP Application_Last Name.

  1. Project proposal. (Include the following sections; Format: maximum 5 pages, 0.5 cm margins, 12-point font, single-spaced, not including references):
    1. Project title, names of student and supervisory panel 
    2. Background and rationale for the project
    3. Hypotheses and aims
    4. Research approaches and methods.
    5. References
  2. A statement addressing the RRTN program focus (see information at https://www.rrtn.org.au/) (maximum half a page).
  3. A supervisor letter of support (explaining why the applicant should be considered for the program).
  4. One page CV
    1. Personal Information:
      1. Name
      2. Student ID Number
      3. School and College
    2. PhD Details: 
      1. Project Title
      2. Commencement Date (or accepted but commencement pending)
      3. Confirmation of Candidature Status (if commenced): (Confirmed / Under Review / Upcoming)
    3. Tertiary Level Awards and Prizes (award name/institution, year awarded)
    4. Peer-Reviewed & Accepted Publications (maximum 10)

Benefits

Successful recipients receive:

  • Participation in NSW-RRTN training modules, workshops and networking events
  • Opportunities to engage with internships / placements / industry connections (subject to program guidelines and availability)