Applications open for emerging researchers to attend the International Horticultural Congress in Japan

Australia's next generation of horticultural researchers now have the chance to take their work to the world stage, with applications open for the AuSHS-Hort Innovation Early Career Researcher Travel Awards.

Hort Innovation, in partnership with the Australian Society of Horticultural Science (AuSHS) through its Future of Hort Science initiative, and the Graham Gregory Horticultural Congress Trust, will support four emerging researchers to attend and present at the International Horticultural Congress (IHC) 2026 in Kyoto, Japan, from 23-28 August 2026.

These awards aim to strengthen Australia's research capability by helping early career researchers share their work internationally, expand their professional networks and bring home insights that benefit the Australian horticulture sector.

© Hort Innovation

Empowering Australia's future research leaders
The Travel Awards are open to PhD students, postdoctoral researchers and early career researchers within five years of PhD conferral who are actively contributing to horticultural research in Australia. Applicants must be willing to become a member of AuSHS.

Successful applicants will receive up to AUD $5,000 to support economy airfares, conference registration, accommodation and reasonable travel expenses.

Applicants are asked to submit a two-page written statement outlining several key areas. This should include their research profile, covering their current role, organisation, research area or project, including the relevant Hort Innovation project code where applicable, as well as details of their IHC 2026 abstract and presentation format. Applicants should also demonstrate their commitment to horticultural science by describing their contributions to research or industry, their engagement with the sector and their dedication to advancing the discipline. The statement should explain the relevance of attending IHC 2026, including how participation will support their research goals and professional development, and the potential benefits for Australian horticulture. In addition, applicants should outline how they intend to contribute to and engage with the horticultural science community through the Australian Society for Horticultural Science (AuSHS). Career interruptions and non-linear career pathways will also be taken into account as part of the eligibility assessment.

Travel Award recipients must acknowledge support from AuSHS and Hort Innovation when presenting their research at IHC 2026. Recipients may also be invited to support engagement activities during the Congress.

Following the event, recipients are required to submit a 1,000‑word report outlining key takeaways, benefits gained, industry relevance and how learnings will inform their ongoing research and involvement in AuSHS. A high‑resolution photo and a statement of expenditure with receipts must also be provided.

Applications (maximum two pages) should be submitted to [email protected].