What is AIMS@JCU?

AIMS@JCU is a formal partnership between the Australian Institute of Marine Science (AIMS) and James Cook University (JCU), established to build research capacity and collaboration in tropical marine science. AIMS@JCU connects researchers, postgraduate students, and supervisors across both institutions to deliver world-class research and training opportunities.

Who can be an AIMS@JCU member?

Membership is open to HDR students, supervisors, and researchers who are engaged in collaborative research between AIMS and JCU. To become a full member, students must have a JCU enrolment and at least one AIMS-based supervisor or advisor. Associate membership is available for undergraduate students and students not enrolled at JCU; however, there must be a genuine link to both JCU and AIMS through supervision/research and these are assessed on a case-by-case basis. Supervisors and researchers from AIMS or JCU who actively participate in AIMS@JCU activities are also eligible.

How do I join AIMS@JCU or update my membership details?

You can join by completing the AIMS@JCU Membership Form. To update any of your details please contact AIMS@JCU on admin.aims@jcu.edu.au.

What are the benefits of being an AIMS@JCU member?

Members gain access to:

• Joint supervision and research opportunities across AIMS and JCU
• Eligibility for AIMS@JCU scholarships and awards
• Access to AIMS facilities and research infrastructure (e.g., SeaSim, workshops, library)
• Invitations to AIMS@JCU events, e.g. workshops, seminar days and writing retreats
• Professional development and communication training
• A vibrant community of marine science researchers and students

What awards can I apply for as an AIMS@JCU student?

Eligible students can apply for:

• Pilot Research Awards – are one-off grants, to explore a new method or initiate a new experiment
• Science Communication Awards – to enhance outreach and engagement by funding conference travel or publication costs
• Professional Development Awards – for formal training at an institute, workplace or in industry to learn a new skill or technique, or for work experience to develop your skill set

Award rounds and details are published on the AIMS@JCU website.

Can I submit an AIMS@JCU Professional Development, Pilot Research or Science Communication Award application anytime?

No. Award rounds are typically announced twice per year. Dates are advertised to AIMS@JCU members via email.

What are AIMS@JCU scholarships?

AIMS@JCU scholarships provide financial support for new HDR (PhD and MPhil) students undertaking joint research projects between the Australian Institute of Marine Science (AIMS) and James Cook University (JCU).
They are awarded competitively each year to outstanding applicants whose research aligns with AIMS and JCU strategic priorities in tropical marine science.

AIMS@JCU scholarships also include an additional annual $7,500 which can be used for project costs or as a stipend top-up.

How do I apply for an AIMS@JCU scholarship?

1. Identify supervisors: Contact potential AIMS and JCU supervisors to discuss your proposed research project.
2. Confirm eligibility: Ensure the AIMS supervisor is registered with JCU as an advisor and the AIMS HDR form has been submitted.
3. Apply through JCU: Complete your HDR scholarship application through the JCU Graduate Research School portal.
4. Attach the AIMS@JCU cover sheet: Download and complete the AIMS@JCU cover sheet, make sure it is signed by the AIMS@JCU Research Director and upload it with your JCU application.
5. Submit before the deadline: AIMS@JCU’s main scholarship round (for domestic and international applications) has a deadline of 31 August to be considered for commencement in the following year.  However, if the AIMS@JCU scholarship quota is not filled in that round, domestic applications may be considered out of session at any time.

How are AIMS@JCU scholarships assessed?

All applications must reach the minimum level to be considered for a JCU scholarship, this is a JCU process. Eligible applications are then reviewed and awarded by the AIMS@JCU Science Advisory Committee.
Key criteria include:

• Academic excellence and research potential
• Alignment with AIMS and JCU strategic priorities
• Suitability of the supervision team
• Availability of resources to support the proposed research

How does the AIMS@JCU commuter vehicle work?

AIMS@JCU provides two vehicles which travel to AIMS and back on a daily basis (driver dependent). This facility is available and free for all AIMS@JCU members, making the commute more cost-effective for students and occasionally staff who wish to use the facilities at AIMS. There are two departure points, one at JCU and one at South Townsville. Both vehicles can be booked by members through the AIMS@JCU website and seats are allocated on a first come, first served basis.

How do I become a registered driver?

You will need to have an open Australian (or international) driver’s license, with at least three years’ driving experience.  Note that if your licence and/or experience is not in QLD, you will need to take a driving assessment (paid for by AIMS@JCU). Simply follow the steps outlined on our website (become a driver)

How do I apply for an AIMS@JCU PhD or MPhil scholarship?

All applications are submitted through James Cook University’s Graduate Research School (GRS). To be eligible for an AIMS@JCU scholarship, your proposed project must have an AIMS-based supervisor and a JCU enrolment. Current projects seeking candidates are listed on the AIMS@JCU “HDR Supervision” page.

What is the process for being co-supervised by AIMS and JCU?

Co-supervision is arranged during project development. You’ll need at least one supervisor from JCU (the enrolling institution) and one from AIMS.

How do I know if my project qualifies as an AIMS@JCU project?

Projects qualify if they involve active collaboration between AIMS and JCU researchers and align with the AIMS@JCU objectives. Typically, this includes co-supervision by both institutions and use of AIMS facilities or data.

How often do I need to complete a progress report?

AIMS@JCU members must complete a progress report every six months, unless they are currently completing a formal milestone (e.g., Confirmation, Mid-Candidature, or Pre-Completion).

Visit Member Responsibilities for further information.

Can I access AIMS facilities (e.g. SeaSim, library, workshops)?

Yes. AIMS@JCU students are entitled to access AIMS facilities and resources required for their research, in line with AIMS’ WHS and site access policies. Access is coordinated through your AIMS supervisor or project lead.

What are my obligations as an AIMS@JCU student?

Students are expected to:

• Submit regular progress reports
• Acknowledge AIMS@JCU in publications and presentations
• Participate in AIMS@JCU events and communication activities

What is a postdoctoral fellowship?

A postdoctoral fellowship is a fixed-term research position for early-career scientists who have recently completed a PhD.
It provides an opportunity to build independent research experience, publish new work, and contribute to collaborative research projects while being mentored by senior scientists.
At AIMS@JCU, postdocs bridge the partnership between AIMS and JCU, working on cutting-edge tropical marine science aligned with the priorities of both institutions.

What are the AIMS@JCU Postdoctoral Research Fellowships?

The AIMS@JCU Postdoctoral Research Fellowships are jointly funded positions that strengthen collaboration between AIMS and JCU.
Fellows work across both institutions, have access to world-class facilities, and contribute to research that supports sustainable management of Australia’s tropical marine ecosystems.
Each fellowship aligns with a theme from the AIMS@JCU Triennial Plan and focuses on key scientific priorities such as coral reef resilience, coastal processes, and marine modelling

How often are Fellowships offered?

Fellowships are typically offered in line with the AIMS@JCU Triennial Plan, which sets the science priorities for a three-year period.
The next round of Fellowships will be advertised following the release of the new Triennial Plan in 2026, once the Student Advisory Committee (SAC) has helped identify future research themes and priority projects.

Who can apply for an AIMS@JCU Postdoctoral Fellowship?

Applicants should:

• Hold (or be close to completing) a PhD in a relevant field such as marine science, oceanography, ecology, genetics, or modelling;
• Have a developing track record of peer-reviewed publications and collaborative research;
• Demonstrate skills relevant to the advertised research theme (e.g. coral resilience, modelling, data science, or reef adaptation);
• Be able to work effectively within a multidisciplinary, cross-institutional research environment.
  Both domestic and international candidates are welcome to apply. AIMS may consider visa sponsorship where appropriate.

How do I apply?

When new Fellowships are available, they are advertised separately by AIMS and JCU on their respective careers websites.
AIMS@JCU promotes these opportunities on its website and via email to members and alumni, with direct links to the official job advertisements.
Applications must be submitted directly to AIMS or JCU following the instructions in each advertisement. AIMS@JCU does not manage the recruitment process or receive applications.

What do the Fellowships provide?

Fellows are employed full-time on a three-year fixed-term contract through either AIMS or JCU.
Positions typically include:

• Competitive salary and superannuation;
• Access to AIMS and JCU research facilities;
• Opportunities for co-supervising HDR students;
• Professional development and mentoring.

What are the expectations of an AIMS@JCU Postdoctoral Fellow?

Fellows are expected to:

• Conduct and publish high-quality, collaborative research;
• Present findings at conferences, seminars, and workshops;
• Supervise or mentor AIMS@JCU HDR students;
• Participate in AIMS@JCU events (e.g. Seminar Day, Morning Teas, Writing Retreats);
• Acknowledge AIMS@JCU in publications and uphold its collaborative values

Can current or former AIMS@JCU HDR students apply?

Yes. AIMS@JCU HDR graduates are strongly encouraged to apply, as these Fellowships are designed to provide a career pathway from PhD research to independent postdoctoral leadership within the partnership.

Where are the Fellowships based?

All Fellowships are based in Townsville, Queensland, co-located with AIMS and JCU facilities near the Great Barrier Reef.
Fellows work across both campuses and may also engage in fieldwork, laboratory research, or modelling projects depending on their theme.

How do I become a primary or co-supervisor for an AIMS@JCU student?

Supervisors must meet JCU eligibility requirements. AIMS staff who wish to co-supervise JCU students can do so through JCU adjunct appointments, which can be facilitated through AIMS@JCU and formalise their involvement.

Visit HDR Supervision for further information.

What’s the process for AIMS staff to gain JCU adjunct status?

AIMS staff must complete the JCU Adjunct Appointment Application and return this to AIMS@JCU with a current CV. JCU adjunct meetings are held once every 3 months to review any applications, so it is vital to not let these lapse. Once approved, appointments typically last 3 years.

What’s required in the JCU Primary Advisor Statement?

This online form confirms that the JCU primary advisor has reviewed the candidate’s project, supervision team, and research alignment with JCU and AIMS@JCU. It’s completed during candidature establishment or change of advisor.

How are AIMS@JCU supervisory roles recognised by JCU?

AIMS supervisors with adjunct appointments are recognised as JCU advisors, and their supervision counts toward JCU’s HDR supervision load and research performance indicators (e.g. HERDC, ERA).

What expectations does AIMS@JCU have of supervisors?

Supervisors are expected to:

• Be AIMS@JCU members
• Provide regular supervision and mentorship
• Support joint publications and collaboration
• Promote student participation in AIMS@JCU activities
• Complete reporting and safety requirements as needed
• Remain on the JCU advisor register and complete training as necessary
• Acknowledge AIMS@JCU in publications and presentations where appropriate

Where can I find current research projects seeking HDR students?

Visit Research Projects Seeking HDRs.

What events does AIMS@JCU host each year?

Key events include:

• AIMS@JCU Annual Student Seminar Day
• Student Writing Retreats (e.g. Magnetic Island)
• Workshops (e.g. R course)
• AIMS@JCU End of Year Celebration
• Regular Morning Teas alternating between AIMS and JCU

How can I attend or present at the Annual Seminar Day?

Calls for abstracts and registrations are sent via email to all AIMS@JCU members about a month prior to the Seminar Day. Both students and supervisors are encouraged to participate. AIMS@JCU scholarship students are required to present each year and must present in each format (seminar, speed talk and poster) at least once throughout their candidature.

How do I register for an AIMS@JCU writing retreat or other event?

Registration links and event details are shared via email. Some events have limited places and RSVPs are essential for catering purposes.

Can non-members attend AIMS@JCU events?

In most cases, yes - some events are open to the broader AIMS and JCU community.

Will photos from events be shared online?

Yes. Photos may be shared via the AIMS@JCU website or social media.

What is the AIMS@JCU Executive Committee (EC) and how does it operate?

The AIMS@JCU EC oversees AIMS@JCU’s strategic direction, funding priorities, and program outcomes. It includes a representative from both AIMS and JCU and meets regularly with the AIMS@JCU Research Director.

What is the role of the AIMS@JCU Science Advisory Committee (SAC)?

The AIMS@JCU SAC provides advice to the AIMS@JCU EC regarding the scientific direction of AIMS@JCU, allocation of scholarships and creation of the AIMS@JCU Triennial Plans, which guide the research to be carried out through AIMS@JCU.

How are AIMS@JCU’s activities aligned with AIMS and JCU strategies?

AIMS@JCU activities are guided by both institutions’ strategic plans, supporting shared goals in tropical marine science, innovation, and training. Regular reviews ensure alignment with evolving research priorities.  AIMS@JCU is guided by Triennial Plans, the current one can be found here.