ECR
Explore the AAUN Early Career Researchers and Academics (ECRA) Terms of Reference (2026-2028) to see how we cultivate professional development, cross-cultural collaboration, and strategic advocacy for the next generation of global academics.
Terms of Reference
1. Context & Background
The Early Career Researchers and Academics (ECRA) Group functions as an integral component of the broader Australia Africa Universities Network. Its establishment recognises the unique position of ECRAs resident or affiliated with Australian University members of the Australia Africa universities Network (AAUN) in fostering meaningful partnerships with African institutions and contributing to shared knowledge creation.
The ECRA Group connects early career researchers across Australian and African institutions and creates an environment where ECRAs can grow professionally and build meaningful collaborations. The Australian ECRA Group operates in synchronisation with the African ECRA Group, whilst maintaining its distinct identity to address specific Australian contextual needs.
Both Australia and Africa have established ECRA Steering Committees to represent their respective member institutions. Each of these committees is led by two Co-chairs for their continent.
2.1 Vision
The Group is encouraged to be a dynamic and innovative collective of early career researchers that strengthens Australia-Africa research partnerships. Through these partnerships, it will advance knowledge creation and foster impactful collaborations across both continents. It will cultivate professional development opportunities for emerging researchers and academics.
2.2 Core Objectives
Establishing the foundational structures and frameworks needed for the ECRA Network’s long-term success
Scaling up the network’s activities to promote collaboration, innovation, and visibility.
Solidifying the network’s reputation and ensure its sustainability for future generations.
Strengthening the social licence of universities by engaging communities through outreach activities, demonstrating research transparency and communicative impact.
2.3 Core Functions
Knowledge Creation & Exchange
The Group is encouraged to facilitate research collaboration across institutions and continents. It may create platforms for knowledge sharing and support methodological innovation. Emphasis should be placed on promoting cross-cultural research approaches that respect and integrate diverse perspectives and ways of knowing.
Professional Development
It should provide comprehensive career development support tailored to the needs of early career researchers. This includes structured assistance with grant writing, guidance on publication strategies, and development of leadership and pedagogical skills. The Group should create opportunities for members to enhance profiles.
Network Building
The Group should actively foster cross-institutional collaboration and engagement with industry partners. It is encouraged to build strong community connections and develop international partnerships that benefit our members. Our approach should remain inclusive, strategic, and sustainable.
Advocacy & Support
It should serve as a strong voice for ECRA representation within the broader academic community. The network should advocate for improved resource access and support work-life balance initiatives. It may provide guidance on career pathways and create supportive mechanisms for our members’ journeys.
3. Steering Committee Members
Australia
Dr Sean van Elden
University of Western Australia (UWA), WA
Matshepo Molala
Western Sydney University (WSU), NSW
Dr Elizabeth Znidersic
Charles Sturt University (CSU), NSW
Joel Odota
Curtin University (CU), WA
Dr Sashah Mutasa
Edith Cowan University (ECU), WA
Dr James Boafo
Murdoch University (MU), WA
Dr Abebe Diro
RMIT University (RMIT), VIC
Dr Shamim Aryampa
University of New South Wales (UNSW), NSW
Dr. Samuel Woldemariam
University of Newcastle (UoN), NSW
Makweti Sishekanu
University of Queensland (UQ), QLD
Africa
Dr Sussy Munialo
University of Pretoria
Dr Qinisani Qwabe
Nelson Mandela University
Dr Veli Nkosi
Tshwane University of Technology
Dr Makhuvha Mulalo
Nelson Mandela University
Dr Felix Owusu Sarkwa
University of Ghana
Dr. Higemengist Astatkie
Bahir Dar University
Dr Samuel Okok
Makerere University
Dr Christine Minoo Mbindyo
University of Nairobi
Dr. Deirdre Margo Rule
University of Cape Town
Dr Kiros Tedla Gebrehiwot
Mekelle University
Mr Bhekithemba Vellem
Walter Sisulu University
Dr. Rudzani Mudzielwana
University of Pretoria
Building research partnerships since 2013.
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