Meaningful research is directed toward improving patient outcomes, strengthening the broader healthcare system, and advancing our collective understanding so we can practise better medicine.
Engaging in research can be highly rewarding, not just for the findings themselves, but for the curiosity, dedication, and learning it inspires. During medical school, research can complement your clinical and professional training, helping you grow into a capable, thoughtful, and well-rounded doctor.
Other motivations for undertaking research as a medical student include:
- Developing strong skills in critical appraisal, study design, and data collection.
- Becoming acquainted with consultants and registrars working in one's area of interest, plus other research roles.
- The opportunity to present at local or overseas conferences.
Our 2026 Research Officer, Edward Mickan, is here to assist you with all your research questions. If you have any of the questions listed below or others, then please do not hesitate to contact Edward at research@amss.org.au.
- Do you feel like you know nothing about research, but want to get involved?
- Are you unsure where you can find financial assistance or scholarships to support you whilst you undertake research?
- Do you want to find out about research scholarships, prizes and awards available to students?
- Do you want advice regarding your MD-related research assessment?
- Do you want to know what non-clinical pathways you can pursue following medical school?
Research Scholarships #
There are a number of scholarships available to medical students to support those undertaking research. When considering whether to apply it is important to keep in mind the opening dates and deadlines for application and eligibility criteria for each scholarship. If the stars do align, do not let yourself be dissuaded by the limited number of scholarships to be handed out. There's no harm in applying!
Scholarship Search Adelaide University
Please contact the AMSS Research officer at research@amss.org.au if you have any questions regarding the below scholarships or if there are any other scholarships that you think should be listed on this website.
Vacation Scholarships
ADELAIDE SUMMER RESEARCH SCHOLARSHIPS
Restricted to: All undergraduate students, >6 week duration, no other vacation scholarships.
Amount: $200 per week
Click here for more information
BASIL HETZEL INSTITUTE (BHI) VACATION SUMMER SCHOLARSHIP
Restricted to: At least completed MBBS II, undertaking a project at the BHI, >6 week duration, no other vacation scholarships.
Amount: $200 per week
Click here for more information
Research Conference Scholarships
ADELAIDE MEDICAL STUDENTS' FOUNDATION (AMSF) RESEARCH CONFERENCE GRANT
Restricted to: Adelaide medical students
Amount: $250 for domestic conferences, up to $1000 for international conferences
Click here for more information
TREVOR PRESCOTT MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
Restricted to: All Australians aged 20-30 years wishing to receive funding for a worthwhile endeavour
Amount: Variable
Click here for more information
WALTER & DOROTHY DUNCAN TRUST
Restricted to: Adelaide University student, demonstrable financial need and academic aptitude
Amount: Variable
Click here for more information
If there is a specific conference you intend to present at, then consider also searching the conference website itself for travel grants and other scholarships available to speakers.