Judges: Ruth Morgan (Australian National University, Chair), Martin Crotty (University of Queensland), Zoë Laidlaw (University of Melbourne)
Over twenty early career researchers from across Australia applied for the AHA’s inaugural Early Career Researcher Fellowship. Many of the applicants noted the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on their research and sought that elusive resource of ‘time’ to accelerate the completion of existing projects, or to support the development of new lines of inquiry. The judges were highly impressed by the diversity and quality of the proposals, not least as all would clearly make significant contributions to their specific field of study. We thank all of them for their interest in this new scheme. The judges struggled to select only one winner, and we extend our congratulations to two ‘highly commended’ applicants.
Award Winner: Dr Beth Marsden, La Trobe University
Dr Beth Marsden from La Trobe University receives this award for her ambitious program of archival research. Her innovative work on the histories of racism in Australian school systems across the twentieth century intervenes in the Australian and global historiography of education and race. With the support of the inaugural Early Career Researcher Fellowship, Dr Marsden will undertake archival research in three cities, which will enable her to expand the scope of her first monograph project. Engaging in these archives will ensure her book effectively surveys schooling and education across all the states as well as the Commonwealth. The critical insights afforded by this comprehensive coverage will help Dr Marsden to translate her research into educational resources for teachers. This inaugural Early Career Researcher Fellowship will enable Dr Marsden to continue to develop her impressive record of publications and awards for her research, and to further her academic career. Congratulations, Beth!
Highly Commended:
Henry Reese, Australian Catholic University
Karen Twigg, La Trobe University