MEMBER HUB

    CHEMISTRY AUSTRALIA WOMAN LEADER IN STEM SCHOLARSHIP

    Applications open 25 June 2026

    Apply by 31 August 2026

    CEW_Scholarships_STEMChemistry_01

    COURSE

    COURSE TYPE

    Short course (5 days)

    VALUE

    $25,000 AUD

    OPEN TO

    Women leaders in the chemistry industry

    LOCATION

    Oxford Saïd Business School, UK

    PARTNER

    CEW has partnered with Chemistry Australia to offer one woman working in the chemistry industry an incredible opportunity to undertake the Women Transforming Leadership Programme at Oxford Saïd Business School.

    Applications are open to women who are employed by Chemistry Australia member companies and their supply chain partners, and to candidates from the chemistry industry nationally.  

    The Australian chemistry industry nationally comprises a diverse range of businesses that manufacture and/or supply chemicals, plastics raw materials and products, and services including: Adhesives and sealants, agricultural chemicals and pesticides, environmental, air, and water treatment chemicals, explosives and mining chemicals, fertilizers, fillers and brighteners, food, beverage, and nutritional ingredients, and gas processing chemicals. It also covers industrial, medical, and other gases (including hydrogen and refrigerants), natural rubber products, paints and coatings, personal care, cosmetics, and hygiene products, pharmaceutical ingredients, and photographic chemicals, dyes, and inks. Additionally, it encompasses polymer film, sheet, rigid, and foam products, polymers, synthetic resins, and synthetic rubber, pulp and paper processing chemicals, repackaging, storing, blending, and solutioning, and silicones.

    WHO SHOULD APPLY?

    To be eligible to apply, you must meet all of the following criteria:
    Currently work in the Australian chemical industry
    Be a senior manager or executive (CEO, or no more than four levels down from CEO)
    Have 5 – 10 years' senior leadership experience (i.e. business unit, operational management, line, or functional management incorporating key responsibilities such as P&L management, strategic planning, and must include people leadership)
    Receive endorsement from the Executive or the Board of your organisation
    Be an Australian citizen or resident
    This scholarship is not open to CEW Members, CEW employees (including contractors), or CEW Scholars.

    INCLUSIONS AND OBLIGATIONS

    The successful candidate will undertake the Women Transforming Leadership Programme at Oxford Saïd Business School from 8-12 March 2027
    The maximum value of this scholarship is AUD $25,000. This includes course fees, accommodation, a travel allowance (up to $3,000), one ticket to attend the 2027 CEW Annual Dinner, and one ticket to attend the 2027 Chemistry Australia Industry Awards
    The successful candidate must commit to attend the whole course
    The successful candidate must complete the course within 12 months of award (i.e. by 30 November 2027)
    The successful candidate is required to write a report about their scholarship experience and may be asked to speak at CEW events
    On completion of the course, the successful candidate will become a member of the CEW alumni community, CEW Connect Women

    “The course provided clarity through reflection and challenged me to push myself out of my comfort zone. The Women Transforming Leadership Programme was insightful and challenged me to clarify the kind of leader I am now and aligning that with my purpose for the future.”

    Kira McGrath
    2023 Scholar

    "Attending an overseas executive education course was extraordinary. I had the privilege of learning alongside 25 exceptional women from 18 countries, each bringing diverse insights shaped by their professional and personal journeys. The camaraderie, openness, and support within the cohort created an energising environment that extended well beyond the classroom."

    Dr Roya Khalil
    2024 Scholar

    “To other women considering applying for a CEW scholarship: I would encourage you to reflect on your own journey, imagine future leadership identities and find your courage to apply. The opportunity afforded is much more than a leadership course, its a life-changing experience that will stretch you, inspire you, and connect you with a global community of courageous female leaders.”

    Alison McGregor
    2025 Scholar

    "This experience has expanded my thinking, and equipped me to take on greater challenges with clarity and purpose. It will remain a cornerstone of my leadership journey."

    Dr Roya Khalil
    2024 Scholar

    “Being awarded the... scholarship has elevated my visibility and will have a long-lasting impact on my career. My network has grown in size, and the numerous industries have been of great benefit to me already.”

    Kira McGrath
    2023 Scholar

    Supported by

    Acknowledgement of Country

    We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and pay our respects to their Elders past and present. CEW celebrates the diversity of First Nations people and their continuing connection to land, water, and community, and acknowledges the strength of First Nations women leading their communities. We extend that respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who are part of the CEW community.

    Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples should be aware that this website contains images or names of people who have passed away.