MARCS Membership

The MARCS Institute for Brain, Behaviour and Development provides a stimulating and inclusive research environment that supports research excellence, innovation, and real-world impact.

The MARCS Membership Program supports school-based researchers (academic researchers engaged and employed principally through a WSU school) to strengthen research capacity, quality, and impact through interdisciplinary collaboration across diverse areas of expertise. The program fosters co-creation and collaboration between schools and institutes, aligning with the University’s goal of being a research-led university with local, national, and global impact.

Why be a MARCS Member?

The MARCS Institute for Brain, Behaviour and Development offers researchers the opportunity to be part of a collaborative, interdisciplinary community. Together, we tackle real-world challenges and deepen understanding of human behaviour, communication, cognition, and technology across the lifespan.

As a MARCS Member, you can:

• Access specialised equipment, laboratories, and licensed software
• Attract higher degree research students and expand your research program
• Receive support for grant development, applications, and research administration
• Connect with researchers across diverse disciplines and build meaningful collaborations
• Access mentoring and professional development opportunities to support your research career
• Become part of an international research network spanning academia, industry, health, education, and technology sectors
• Increase the visibility and impact of your research through MARCS research themes, events, and communication channels

Criteria

• Research interests aligns with the Institute’s vision to optimise human interaction and wellbeing across the lifespan across the research themes: sensing and perceiving, interacting with each other, and technologies for humans.

Expectations

MARCS members are expected to contribute to the Institute's research culture and strategic goals by:

• Undertaking high-quality, impactful research
• Conducting relevant theme-based research in collaboration with Institute researchers
• Contributing to research excellence through securing external funding, publishing research outcomes, and supervising HDR candidates
• Submitting MARCS-aligned research grants through the Institute, and having these administered by the Institute, where appropriate
• Acknowledging The MARCS Institute for Brain, Behaviour and Development as an additional institutional affiliation on publications, grant applications, and other research outputs and engagement activities, where appropriate

Members are also encouraged to contribute to the Institute community by:

• Mentoring early career and emerging researchers
• Serving on committees and review panels where appropriate
• Participating in MARCS Research Meetings (MRM), events, and research activities
• Promoting the Institute's research and activities through professional, industry, community, and media engagement

How to Apply

Before applying, school-based academics should:

• Read the relevant membership policies and guidelines including the Publication Affiliation Guide.
• Seek approval from their supervisor and School Dean
• Consult with a MARCS-based Academic who is willing to act as their mentor or host.

Applications will be considered against the membership criteria, including the applicant’s recent research activity. Approval is subject to endorsement by the relevant School Dean and the Institute Director or delegate.

The application process takes up to a week. You will be notified of the outcome via email.

Membership Application Form

To apply, please complete the online MARCS Membership application form, uploading any required attachments. The same form should be used for membership renewals.

Questions?

Contact the Institute Executive Officer at MARCS@westernsydney.edu.au