Wicked Problems in Digital Health Intern Program

Imagine using cutting-edge technology to tackle the toughest healthcare challenges of our time - challenges so complex, they defy simple solutions and demand fresh thinking. Are you ready to shape the future of health? Step up and join a movement where bold ideas become practical innovations, improving lives and redefining what’s possible for our communities.

The Wicked Problems in Digital Health Intern Program invites PhD candidates and supervisors to collaborate on real-world impact projects drawn directly from Flinders University’s Wicked Problems Report - giving you the chance to make a visible difference through digital innovation.

Funding and Delivery

Eligible projects receive co-funded, 1:1 matched grants up to $5,000, supporting PhD internships and helping to attract the brightest minds for applied research and innovation.
Please note: funding cannot be used for equipment purchases or capital costs; it is strictly dedicated to stipend support.
Delivered by Innovation Central Adelaide (ICA) in partnership with the Digital Health Design Laboratory (DHDL) and Flinders’ strategic alliance with Cisco, the program brings together technology and health expertise.

Eligibility and Partnerships

Applications must involve a collaboration between a Flinders University academic and an external business or organisation.
PhD candidates or supervisors can apply.
If a partnership has not yet been found, ICA can help identify a suitable external or Flinders collaborator to bring your project to life.

Project Scope

Projects funded by this grant should:

Engage PhD candidates with industry or community partners.
Advance solutions to wicked health problems using digital technology.
Harness advanced ICT, including digital process improvements, data insights, and new tech applications to boost health outcomes.

Support and Resources

Get extra lift through:

In-kind support from ICA’s Digital Technology Mentoring Panel.
Access to the NIIN Industry Alumni network.
Technical insight from Cisco specialists.

Expected outcomes

Outcomes should have real impact: either tangible results during the project, or a clear path for real-world adoption. Where relevant, projects should also demonstrate progression in Technology Readiness Level (TRL).

Applications

Applications remain open until funds are exhausted - so act quickly to secure your place in this initiative for meaningful change.

If you have a project that doesn't require additional funding, but you would like to access the in-kind support, please note in your application.

Terms and Conditions

Purpose of Funding
Funding is provided as a stipend top-up for the selected PhD Intern to support their living allowance during the internship period. Usage of funds is strictly limited to the student stipend and related approved costs.
Ineligible Costs
Consumable equipment or capital purchases are not eligible for funding under this program. Such expenses should be met by the research area, external partner, or a combination thereof.
Promotion and Acknowledgment
All funded projects will be actively promoted by Innovation Central Adelaide (ICA). Promotion channels may include social media, online platforms, and as ICA technology demonstrations. Projects and outcomes will be publicly acknowledged as supported and funded by ICA.
Project Support
Projects will receive ongoing technology advisory and support from ICA and the Digital Health Design Laboratory (DHDL). This includes regular meetings and engagement as required to aid successful project execution.
Access to Facilities
Projects will have access to relevant facilities and resources at ICA, DHDL, and broader Flinders University infrastructure as appropriate and available.
Compliance with Flinders PhD Internship Scheme
All other terms, conditions, and requirements set out under the Flinders PhD Internship scheme apply. This includes eligibility, intellectual property, confidentiality, reporting, and progression obligations of students and partners.
Project Duration and Engagement
Projects are expected to align with the standard duration and engagement commitments of the Flinders PhD Internship scheme, typically including a minimum three-month internship period with defined deliverables and milestones.
Intellectual Property and Confidentiality
IP and confidentiality provisions will follow Flinders University policies and relevant agreements with external partners, ensuring appropriate sharing and protection of innovations and research outcomes.
Reporting and Monitoring
Funded projects are required to provide periodic progress updates to ICA and comply with any reporting requests linked to funding accountability and project evaluation.
Termination and Variations
ICA reserves the right to suspend or terminate funding in cases of non-compliance, unsatisfactory progress, or breach of terms as detailed in the broader Flinders PhD Internship scheme.