2026 Sydney Southeast Asia Research Innovation Symposium

Join us at this year’s SSEAC Research Innovation Symposium themed Connecting for Impact: New horizons in Southeast Asia research.

The event brings together researchers from across the University of Sydney to celebrate research excellence, strengthen research capability and build new connections across the Southeast Asia research community.

The day will begin with a dedicated morning program for Higher Degree by Research students and early and mid-career researchers, followed by an afternoon symposium open to researchers at all career stages. The program will feature research showcases, career development insights, funding discussions, emerging research ideas and opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration.

Participants will connect with colleagues working across disciplines, faculties and institutions, learn from successful research programs, and explore new pathways for funding, partnership and regional engagement.

The Symposium will conclude with networking drinks, offering an informal opportunity to continue conversations, exchange ideas and develop new research connections.

Program at a glance:

9:00 am–1:00 pm | HDR and EMCR Program
A dedicated morning program focused on research career development, skills, mentorship and pathways for emerging researchers.

12:30–1:00 pm | Registration and poster showcase

1:00–4:00 pm | Sydney Southeast Asia Research Innovation Symposium

• Keynote address: Research impact and regional research excellence

• Director’s update: Research, connections and impact

• SSEAC research exemplars: Taking your research to the region

• Announcement of SSEAC Research Grants 2027

• Funding panel: ARC schemes, Horizon Europe and other funding opportunities for Southeast Asia-focused research

• SSEAC Grand Challenge funding strategies: Achievements, priorities and future funding plans

• People’s Choice Poster Award announcement

• 2026 SSEAC Awards winners!

4:00–4:40 pm | Networking drinks
Continue the conversation, exchange ideas and build connections with researchers from across disciplines, faculties and institutions.

Details:
Date: Wednesday, 18 November 2026

HDR and EMCR session: 9.00am to 12.00pm

SSEAC Research Innovation Symposium: 12.30pm to 4.00pm, followed by networking drinks

Venue: Susan Wakil Health Building, The University of Sydney, Lecture Theatre 207.

When registering please select which of the programs you would like to attend. If you are attending both, please select both options.

As this event is catered, registration is essential. Please only register if you plan to attend.