The NSW Regional Cancer Research Network (NSWRCRN) is continuing its commitment to strengthening cancer research capability and fostering a connected, collaborative research culture across regional New South Wales.
As part of this commitment, NSWRCRN is pleased to offer members the opportunity to participate in a fully funded, tailored 90-minute one-on-one research career coaching session with Emeritus Professor Kylie Ball, Founder of Indago Academy.
This personalised coaching initiative provides practical and strategic support to help recipients clarify their research career direction, navigate professional challenges, and strengthen their research capability within the NSW cancer research ecosystem.
What the coaching package includes
Each successful recipient will receive a comprehensive coaching package comprising a 90-minute online session with Professor Ball, tailored to their individual goals and context. Prior to the session, recipients will engage in virtual pre-session consultation, including email correspondence to clarify objectives and ensure the session is focused and productive. Following the session, recipients will receive structured follow-up materials, including coaching notes, relevant resources, and recommended next steps to support ongoing development.
What career coaching can support
Coaching sessions may address a broad range of research-related priorities, including career direction and progression, strategies for attracting funding and strengthening grant applications, and achieving publication goals. Recipients may also seek guidance in people management, mentorship and research leadership, refining CVs and track records, preparing for promotion opportunities, managing competing priorities, and building resilience, confidence and effective stress-management strategies.
About Emeritus Professor Kylie Ball
Emeritus Professor Kylie Ball (BA(Psych)(Hons), PhD, FAHMS, AM) is an internationally recognised research leader with more than two decades of experience in research and academic leadership. Ranked in the top one percent globally in her field, she has secured more than $25 million in competitive research funding and authored over 300 peer-reviewed publications. In 2021, she was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia for significant service to public health.
Eligibility
Applicants must be current NSWRCRN members at the time of application. Individuals who are not yet members are encouraged to join the Network prior to submitting an application.
Eligible applicants include healthcare workers, clinicians, researchers and PhD candidates who are involved in or affiliated with cancer research within the NSWRCRN footprint. PhD candidates must have commenced at least the third year of their candidature (full-time equivalent) at the time of application.
How to apply
Applications must be submitted online via the NSWRCRN platform. Email submissions will not be accepted. Successful applicants will receive instructions on how to book their coaching session.
Key dates
Expressions of Interest open 23 February 2026.
Applications close at 9:00 am on 9 March 2026.
Coaching sessions will be available from mid-March to 30 June 2026.
Further information
For further information, please contact nswrcrn@newcastle.edu.au.
Through this initiative, NSWRCRN continues to invest in the development of cancer researchers across regional NSW, supporting both individual career progression and the long-term sustainability of the research workforce.