Applicants should investigate WEHI’s research areas and scientific divisions to identify their research interests and indicate up to three preferred supervisors.

While not mandatory, we encourage students to contact their preferred supervisors to discuss potential projects for the Metcalf scholarship at the stage of application.

The application form includes:

• Written statements describing your interest in medical research and future career aspirations. Please refer to the application form for full questions.
• Your CV as well as academic transcripts or statement of results; a full official transcript may be requested at a future date.
• Nomination of up to three supervisors

Submit your online application via this link

Please note: Applications will not be accepted if application form is incomplete or supporting documents are not uploaded.

Awarding and lab placement is not dependent on your research interests. The final lab placement will be dependent on supervisor availability.

At WEHI we strive to ensure all our staff and students enjoy a great working environment. We value diversity and gender equity in our work force and promote flexible working arrangements to balance working requirements and personal needs.

To nominate a Lab Head as your supervisor for the Metcalf Scholarship, we recommend reaching out via email. In your message, please:

• Clearly state your interest in nominating them as a preferred supervisor for your Metcalf Scholarship application.
• Attach your CV and academic transcript to provide insight into your background and qualifications.
• Include a brief summary of why you are interested in their area of research.

You can explore the list of Researchers and Labs on our website here. While we strive to match successful applicants with their preferred supervisors, final lab placements are subject to supervisor availability.

Yes, you are welcome to apply if you meet the eligibility criteria and are currently enrolled at an Australian university.

Interstate students will need to travel to Melbourne to complete their placement. In 2025, the placement structure includes:

• 4 weeks of full-time work
• 3 weeks during the semester at 5 hours per week

However, the timing of your placement is flexible and can be arranged at a mutually convenient time between you and your supervisor. If it is more suitable, you may discuss the option of completing your placement over summer or working extended hours during the winter break. Please include any points regarding your placement availability in the email to your preferred supervisor.

No, travel and accommodation costs are not covered by WEHI and will need to be self-funded by the student.

The Metcalf Scholarship provides funding of $8,000, which is allocated as follows:

• $1,000 awarded to the student
• $7,000 transferred to the lab to support research costs

We encourage interstate students to plan accordingly and communicate with their nominated supervisor if they are coming from interstate.

Remote placements may be possible depending on your supervisor’s ability to accommodate a remote research experience.

Before applying, please consult with a potential supervisor to discuss whether a remote arrangement is feasible for your project and their lab’s research requirements.