Lead and Mentor supports outstanding researchers to develop the next generation of researchers and research leaders by providing high-quality training and development opportunities through excellent and innovative research projects. Lead and Mentor is expected to open in Q3 2027. The scheme will run annually. Duration Indicative funding amount Eligibility Up to 5 years 2 SCIs + 2 HDRs + up to $250,000 project funds per year Individuals with a strong record of research leadership and mentoring across the sector Indicative grant opportunity This information is indicative and is subject to consultation and information sessions which will inform design of the scheme in the final grant opportunity guidelines. Lead and Mentor supports research leaders to develop the next generation of researchers through projects led by a single established mid-career or senior researcher, recognising that both cohorts play a critical role in mentoring and supervision of early-career researcher (ECR) teams. Proposed additional limits ARC Research Points have been introduced to support broader participation in research projects and collaboration across grant opportunities, and these limits apply to this scheme. See the ARC Research Points page for specific details related to this scheme. NCGP legacy scheme grants will not count towards the ARC Research Points limit. Any additional limits will be subject to consultation and development of the final grant opportunity guidelines. Proposed objectives Excellence: Support the development of the next generation of researcher and research leaders through excellent and innovative research in ECR teams that addresses a significant problem or advances knowledge, led by an experienced and skilled mentor with an established record of delivering outstanding outcomes in leadership. Benefit: Support projects that build the next generation of researchers through research that provides value for money and serves the national interest in diverse ways, including fundamental knowledge creation; commercial, cultural, economic, environmental, or social benefits; and/or alignment with Australian government priority areas. Capacity: Support outstanding mid-career and senior researchers with exceptional leadership, mentoring, collaboration and supervisory skills across the sector, to provide a supportive and inclusive research training environment that helps the next generation of researchers advance in their careers. Collaboration: Support mutually beneficial research collaboration with local and/or international partners, enabling established researchers to share their skills and networks with early-career researchers, where appropriate for an individual research project.