NIEA Expression of Interest for funding commencing in 2027

This Tender is invited by the Issuer. Overview The Office of National Intelligence (ONI) is conducting an Expression of Interest (EOI) grant opportunity for the National Intelligence Explore Award (NIEA), as part of the National Intelligence Community (NIC) Research Program. About The NIC Research Program enables the Australian academic community to undertake competitive, unclassified research into NIC research priorities. The program supports peer-reviewed research that deepens understanding of emerging science, social science, engineering and technology. NIC innovation is facilitated through the creation of sovereign expertise, discovery of new insights and development of an R&D ecosystem to underpin emerging technological capability. Purpose The NIEA will be awarded to early-mid career researchers partnering with experienced researchers and emerging PhD candidates, enabling research into NIC research priorities and challenges. The award also allows for the possibility of extension research. Research proposals are invited to address an Intelligence Science and Technology Challenge or a NIC-defined Research Topic. Funding Up to 12 NIEA grants available Each NIEA provides up to $750,000 over three years Funding may be requested for up to 3 years Eligibility It is strongly recommended that applicants read the Grant Guidelines carefully to ensure their eligibility before applying. EOI applications must be submitted by the Lead Chief Investigator, certified by the Research Office of an Eligible Sponsoring Organisation listed in the grant guidelines Individuals named in an EOI application must satisfy the eligibility criteria for the role they are to perform as at the Commencement Date and for the duration of the Project Each EOI application must have one Lead Chief Investigator (CI) who is an Early-Mid Career Researcher (EMCR) Each EOI application must have one Eligible Organisation (the Sponsoring Organisation) The Lead Chief Investigator must be an early-mid career researcher with a PhD in a relevant field within ten years of the EOI application closing date (career interruptions considered) The Lead Chief Investigator must be an Australian citizen or New Zealand Special Category Visa Holder The Lead Chief Investigator must be sponsored by an accredited Australian University How to Apply This grant opportunity uses a two-stage application process. Stage 1: Expression of Interest Opens: 2 November 2026 Closes: 10 December 2026 Stage 2: Full Application (by invitation only) Opens: 21 December 2026 Closes: 3 March 2027 The EOI application must contain all the information necessary for its assessment without the need for further written or oral explanation, or reference to additional documentation, unless requested by ONI. Applications must be submitted through the specific ONI SmartyGrants portal, where NIEA documentation is published and where the Expression of Interest and Full Application are to be completed and submitted. All applications must meet the format and content requirements, including certification, as set out in the application form and Grant Guidelines. Enquiries Email: NICRP@oni.gov.au