Wentworth Group of Concerned Scientists

Since its inception in 2002, the Wentworth Group of Concerned Scientists has been active in advancing solutions to secure the long term health of Australia’s environment. Comprised of eminent scientists and thinkers, the Group has three core tasks:

• Driving innovation in the management of Australia’s land, water and marine resources;
• Engaging business, community and political leaders in a dialogue to find and implement solutions to the challenge of environmental stewardship facing the future of Australian society; and,
• Building capacity by mentoring and supporting young natural resources scientists and resource economists to develop their skills and understanding of public policy.

Members of the Wentworth Group are: Ms Leith Boully FAIC, Mr Peter Cosier, Prof Peter Cullen AO, Prof Tim Flannery, Dr Ronnie Harding, Prof Hugh Possingham FAA, Mr Robert Purves, Dr Denis Saunders AM, Prof Bruce Thom FIAG FTSE, Dr John Williams and Prof Mike Young FASSA.

Scholarship Objectives

Too often there exists a gap between science and public policy in relation to natural resource management. It is the intention of the Wentworth Group Scholarships to bridge this gap. These scholarships are to enable recipients to become active contributors at the interface of good decision making and world class science.

The main aim of Wentworth Group Scholarships is to give recipients access to the knowledge and networks of some of Australia’s leading practitioners in influencing public policy through their experience in the natural sciences, economics and public policy.

It is not the intention of these scholarships to provide direct support for thesis research, nor can a scholarship be used as a stipend. The focus of the scholarship must be on its use to enhance each recipients understanding and background on how their individual discipline interests can be expanded and applied in public policy and decision making.

Eligibility

Honours and postgraduate research students enrolled at an Australian university during 2008 are eligible. They must be Australian citizens or have permanent residency.

Students with interests in natural and social sciences, resource economics, environmental law, engineering and the built environment are encouraged to apply.

Supervisor endorsement is necessary.

Preference will be given to full-time students under 35 years of age.

Uses of Scholarship

Scholarship funds are intended to support a program of mentoring by Wentworth Group members during 2008. Successful scholars will be assigned one or more members of the Wentworth Group as mentors. This will enable discussions to take place on issues related to public policy and the environment. Additional funds are available to each scholar to assist with mentoring, primarily for travel.

Scholarship funds will also cover the costs of travel, accommodation and expenses to a Master Class to be conducted by members of the Wentworth Group. It is anticipated that this event will be held in May 2008. Attendance at the Master Class is compulsory.

Selection Criteria

1. Demonstrated academic excellence in chosen field;

2. A basic understanding of public policy related to natural resource and environmental issues;

3. Provision of written proof of supervisor’s support, indicating how a scholar may benefit from participation with members of the Wentworth Group; and,

4. Membership or participation in areas of interest relevant to the scholarship.

Closing Date

Applications must be submitted by 18 December 2007.

Enquiries

Dinah Johanson
Science Program Co-ordinator
Wentworth Group of Concerned Scientists

(02) 8667 3113
djohanson@wentworthgroup.org