CSIRO Next Generation Graduates Program — AI Scholarships 2026
CSIRO's flagship AI scholarship programme offering fully-funded Honours, Masters, and PhD research placements at Australian universities across 38 interdisciplinary AI research tracks. Rolling applications — places filled throughout 2026. MPhil applications close December 2026 for 2027 start.
One of Australia's most industry-connected AI research pipelines — CSIRO Data61 partners with universities nationwide across 38 research programmes. Unlike academic-only scholarships, fellows work at the intersection of university research and real industry problems with CSIRO as co-supervisor.
The CSIRO Next Generation Graduates Program (NGGP) is Australia’s flagship cohort-based, industry-driven AI graduate research training programme. Run by CSIRO Data61, it funds Honours, Masters, and PhD students working on AI, quantum computing, and emerging technology challenges.
Programme structure:
- 38 interdisciplinary research programmes across Australian universities
- Students work with CSIRO Chief Investigators and university supervisors simultaneously
- Cohort-based: students connect with peers across disciplines and locations
- Preliminary coursework helps students from non-CS backgrounds gain AI proficiency
Funding:
- Honours and Masters (coursework): stipend + top-up + allowances
- Master of Philosophy: A$40,500/year stipend + 2% annual indexation (up to 2 years)
- PhD: higher stipend rate (contact CI for current figures)
- Full tuition support varies by programme and university
How to apply:
- Browse the 38 programmes at csiro.au/NGGP
- Download the programme brochure to check eligibility
- Contact Chief Investigators directly using links on their profiles
- Email Data61-NextGenGrad@csiro.au for general enquiries
Research areas include:
- AI in mental health and healthcare
- AI for food systems and sustainability
- Quantum AI
- Trustworthy AI and privacy
- Computer vision and robotics
- AI for climate and energy systems
Deadlines:
- Rolling — places filled as they become available throughout 2026
- MPhil final applications close December 31, 2026 for 2027 start
Note: Eligibility restricted to Australian/NZ citizens and permanent residents.