Direct access to talent in Griffith Sciences
The Griffith Sciences Partnerships Office was established in 2019 as a ‘front door’ for external partners and to coordinate a broad range of engagement activities between our staff, students and industry partners.
Griffith Sciences partnerships involve global industry, local business, all levels of government, non-government organisations (NGOs) and community as part of a strategy to nurture and grow meaningful collaborations between industry and Griffith University, to enhance the learning experience and employability of our graduates, while collaborating with partner organisations to tackle the SDGs, including local and global challenges.
We support work integrated learning and student volunteering programmes, while also developing educational resources and undertaking research programs with impact.
Sustainable Development Goals
Griffith University is aligned with the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and is committed to fostering partnerships to create synergies, best practices and amplifying our impact in achieving the SDGs for a more sustainable and inclusive future for all.
Fresh ideas and new perspectives
Griffith Sciences programs provide authentic learning experiences that are developed and supported through industry collaboration. We help global industry, local business, NGOs, and all levels of government to tackle the SDGs through internships, student volunteering, provision of resources, and connections with researchers.
Students expand their professional learning while making valued contributions in formalised projects and work placement situations.
If you're looking for fresh ideas and new perspectives, the Griffith Sciences Partnerships Office could be the solution you've been searching for.
Benefits to industry include:
- Young professionals contributing directly to your business through internships and volunteering
- An addition to recruitment strategies
- An opportunity to source and appraise future employees among job-ready graduates
- Support your staff leadership development in supervising an intern
- Cost effective solution for research and development initiatives
- Opportunity to input knowledge into the educational resources and curriculum
Why collaborate with us?
Opportunities for everyone
Global industry, local business, NGOs and all levels of government regularly support and contribute to our diverse range of our programs
Innovative ideas and fresh perspectives
Benefit from having young professionals contributing to your business, appraise future employees among job-ready graduates
A supported approach
We have dedicated staff to provide you with one-on-one assistance; from the initial stages of engaging with our programs, all the way through to completion
World-class innovation
Our research institutes and centres are equipped with the latest state-of-the-art technologies with internationally recognised research leaders solving real world problems
Profile your organisation
Participate in networking events, share ideas, connect with students, staff researchers and local community to ensure your brand is front of mind
Collaborate to tackle the SDGs through student volunteering and work integrated learning
Through our work integrated learning placements (for credit) and work experience placements (for volunteer experiences) we provide opportunities for our students to contribute to activities and initiatives that align with, and address, the United Nation Sustainable Development Goals.
3306ENV
In 2024, 115 students participated in volunteer and engagement activities as part of their assessment in course 3306ENV Environmental Management. This assessment item is designed so that students can engage with professional and community groups to explore the value of environmental volunteerism and professional development. Students construct a reflective portfolio around these experiences. Experiences included active participation in place-based activities like weeding and tree planting, beach clean ups, wildlife surveys, including nest box, echidna and platypus-focused activities, eDNA sampling, deployment of artificial oyster reefs, recycling initiatives and blue carbon demonstrations at field sites. In addition, students also engaged in conference and online events focusing on food production and food waste management, nature positive initiatives, energy transitions and climate change adaptation, stormwater management, cane toad management, coral bleaching, bird flu and impacts on native species and conservation initiatives more broadly. Students engaged with a wide range of organisations including Sea World, Landcare NGO groups, catchment associations, local councils and non-government organisations. The outcomes of this engagement included an ongoing commitment by students to undertake further volunteering and accept job offers (in cases where students have been offered a job and accepted it with organisations they volunteered with).
STEM outreach
Griffith Sciences partners with school and community organisations to offer a wide range of engagement and educational opportunities for school students.
Background
Griffith University has partnered with the NGO Sea World Foundation to conduct vital ongoing research projects into marine wildlife, wildlife health, ecology and disease. Each trimester, Sea World hosts Griffith University Science students in a unique chance for students to engage in marine biology research whilst contributing to scientific knowledge of these species.
Project Tasks
In 2023 and 2024, students undertook several critical tasks:
- Behavioural Observations: Observations were made on the movements and interactions of sharks and turtles, aiming to identify patterns related to feeding, social interactions, and environmental influences.
- Substrate Preference of Echinoderms: Investigations were conducted to determine the preferred substrate types among various echinoderm species, providing insights into habitat selection and ecological interactions.
- Activity Budgets of Rescued Turtles: Students monitored the daily activity patterns of rescue turtles, documenting time spent on feeding, resting, and swimming to inform rehabilitation strategies.
- Seasonal Movements and Behaviours: By tracking the seasonal shifts in the movements and behaviours of sharks and turtles, students gathered valuable data that could inform conservation efforts and enhance understanding of these species.
Project Deliverables
Each time this project is delivered, students build on the work previously completed, providing increased data and accounts of behavioural movements of marine animals, contributing to existing knowledge and helping to inform future research.
Background
Griffith University has partnered with Queensland's Department of Primary Industries for the sustainable management of fisheries in Queensland. Each trimester, students are hosted by the Department's fisheries team to work on a range of field, laboratory and desktop projects which contribute to SDG 14 Life below Water.
Project Tasks
In 2024-25, students have examined long-term trends in population structures of key fish species to inform decision making regarding fish harvesting quotas and other sustainable management strategies.
Key tasks have included:
- Field surveys of fish habitats, boat ramps and commercial fishers and wholesalers
- Lab-based processing of samples
- Data analysis and interpretation
- Report preparation
Project Deliverables
Outcomes of this work have included the development of reliable and operational methods for age estimation of individuals of key fish species, supporting sustainable fisheries management in Queensland.
Background
Moreton Bay, a vital coastal ecosystem in Queensland, has faced significant challenges in recent years, including increased coastal erosion and inundation. It is crucial to understand the impacts of sea level rise and the complex coastal processes at play. Alluvium, an environmental consultancy and NGO , has engaged Griffith Sciences students to undertake a numerical modelling project aimed at assessing the region's existing environmental conditions and predicting future impacts of climate change.
How do I apply for Work Experience, and how is it different from WIL?
Collaborate to tackle the SDGs through research and education
Through our research programs, education, and resource development we work with industry to tackle the SDGs and ensure our graduates – across architecture, construction and planning, engineering, IT, aviation; science and environment – are equipped with the knowledge and skills to tackle global challenges.
Our research programs for the SDGs
Griffith researchers are providing scientific solutions to global challenges. We collaborate with global industry, local business, all levels of government, non-government organisations (NGOs) and community to do research which addresses a range of global issues, including those related to the UN SDGs. Griffith Sciences’ expertise covers the traditional disciplines of biology, chemistry and physics, while also advancing continued technological developments. Our research provides the bedrock of our learning and teaching strategies, while also translating into successful research outcomes across a broad range of scientific fields.
Education for the SDGs
Globally recognised research achievements underpin our learning and teaching
Acclaimed scientists across various expertise provide a knowledge platform from which successful graduates glean from, and in turn become future professionals of influence.
Griffith Sciences is an innovator within the higher education sector, having developed Australia’s first School of Environmental Studies and more recently instigated course work, which is now mandatory for all scientific officers of the Queensland Police Service.
We collaborate with a large number of organisations to deliver quality education and develop education resources that can be used not only by our students, but also by our partners.
The climate-resilient landscapes project, which runs from 2023 to 2026, is providing local education on climate adaptation by engaging communities in the Northern Rivers region of New South Wales and the Wet Tropics of Queensland. Led by Griffith University, the Jagan Alliance Aboriginal Corporation, and James Cook University, the project worked closely with local community groups, non-government organisations, Indigenous organisations, natural resource management bodies, and government agencies to build capacity for climate adaptation planning.
Education was delivered through a series of six one-day workshops in each region, involving 30–50 participants from partner organisations. These workshops focused on recognising climate-related risks to key species and ecosystems, identifying feasible adaptation options, and developing adaptation decision pathway plans. Informed by the research, the project also provided access to data, tools, and guidance through the NESP Land and Sea Adapt decision support platform, supporting ongoing learning and adaptation planning.
By integrating local and Traditional Knowledge, and fostering collaboration, the project empowered communities to make informed decisions and adapt to the increasing risks posed by climate change.
The project aligns with multiple SDGs, including Climate Action and Life on Land.
Partners: the Jagan Alliance Aboriginal Corporation (NGO) and James Cook University
Read about the project at the National Environmental Science Program page
This project addresses critical water and energy inequality in remote Indigenous communities.
iKnow, weKnow is a three-year collaborative research initiative (2023–2026) led by Griffith University, focused on tackling persistent water and energy access challenges in remote Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. Despite Australia’s high-income status, many Indigenous communities continue to experience unreliable and unsafe services. This project brings together Indigenous knowledge systems, technical expertise, and digital tools to co-design solutions that are culturally appropriate and environmentally sustainable.
NGOs and community partners are central to the co-design and delivery of solutions.
The project collaborates with eight water and energy industry organisations, including non-governmental organisations (NGOs) working in environmental resilience and community development, and four remote Indigenous communities across Queensland, the Northern Territory, and Western Australia. Together, they co-develop educational resources, governance models, and engagement tools to support community-led service delivery. The project has been internationally recognised, shortlisted in the Top 20 of the Falling Walls GlobalCall24 Science Engagement category for its innovative approach to sustainable development.
The project aligns with multiple SDGs, including Clean Water and Sanitation, Affordable and Clean Energy, and Partnerships for the Goals.
Partners: Torres Strait Island Regional Council, Indigenous Technology, PowerWater, Centre for Appropriate Technology Limited (NGO), Ergon Energy, Water Corporation, Northern Territory Government.
This project addresses food insecurity and builds climate-resilient cities.
Cultivating Resilience is a nature-based research and action programme led by Griffith University’s Cities Research Institute in the Sciences Group. It reimagines under-utilised urban spaces as productive landscapes to combat food insecurity, climate change, and cost-of-living pressures. The initiative empowers young Queenslanders to grow food, gain skills, and build community resilience. It integrates multi-disciplinary research—spanning environmental science, social science, engineering, planning, and public health—with practical, community-driven solutions. The project aligns with multiple SDGs, including Zero Hunger, Good Health and Well-being, Sustainable Cities and Communities, and Climate Action.
The project is delivered in partnership with The Mini Farm Project, a community-based NGO that converts unused land into charity farms and trains volunteers. Additional partners include Logan City Council, Cairns Regional Council, and Youth Change Agents Consultancy, all of which support youth capability development and community engagement. Griffith University contributes research expertise, educational outreach and resource development, and student involvement, with benefits including career skills development, school outreach, and civic engagement. The initiative supports food relief, disaster recovery, and social justice through evidence-based research and hands-on learning.
Partners: The Mini Farm Project (NGO), Logan City Council, Cairns Regional Council, Youth Change Agents Consultancy
Project Duration: Ongoing throughout 2024 and 2025
This project addresses critical water and energy inequality in remote Indigenous communities.
iKnow, weKnow is a three-year collaborative research initiative (2023–2026) led by Griffith University, focused on tackling persistent water and energy access challenges in remote Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. Despite Australia’s high-income status, many Indigenous communities continue to experience unreliable and unsafe services. This project brings together Indigenous knowledge systems, technical expertise, and digital tools to co-design solutions that are culturally appropriate and environmentally sustainable.
NGOs and community partners are central to the co-design and delivery of solutions.
The project collaborates with eight water and energy industry organisations, including non-governmental organisations (NGOs) working in environmental resilience and community development, and four remote Indigenous communities across Queensland, the Northern Territory, and Western Australia. Together, they co-develop educational resources, governance models, and engagement tools to support community-led service delivery. The project has been internationally recognised, shortlisted in the Top 20 of the Falling Walls GlobalCall24 Science Engagement category for its innovative approach to sustainable development.
The project aligns with multiple SDGs, including Clean Water and Sanitation, Affordable and Clean Energy, and Partnerships for the Goals.
Partners: Torres Strait Island Regional Council, Indigenous Technology, PowerWater, Centre for Appropriate Technology Limited (NGO), Ergon Energy, Water Corporation, Northern Territory Government.
Connect with students
With a variety of engagement activities, it’s easy to involve and profile your organisation to students in Griffith Sciences.
Engage our students through:
- Offering internships (UG, PG, PhD), including work integrated learning and volunteer activities
- Offering industry-led team projects
- Attending networking functions
- Exhibiting at careers events
- Supporting student clubs and societies
Profile your organisation
Industry involvement in courses across our programs is vital. You can be involved through activities such as:
- Hosting site visits
- Being a guest lecturer
- Participating in employability initiatives
- Being an active member of the WIL advisory committee
Partner with us
Industry has a pivotal role to play in the development of job-ready graduates and is also an integral part of initiatives undertaken by our diverse array of research institutes and centres.
Ways you can partner with us:
- Research collaboration and consulting
- PhD sponsorships
- Being an active member of a School Industry Advisory Board
- Financial support
- Student volunteering or internship opportunities
Griffith Careers Fair 2025
Are you looking for talented candidates?
Register to attend the Griffith Careers Fair to showcase your organisation and position yourself as an employer of choice to students and upcoming graduates
Our partners
We collaborate with our partners to tackle the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals through work integrated learning opportunities, student volunteering initiatives, our impactful research programs, and through the development of educational resources and industry involvement in courses.
Resources
Looking for recruitment options?
Griffith's Careers and Employment Service can assist with recruiting, advertising a position or becoming an industry mentor.
Looking to upskill or get job-ready?
With a range of high-priority study areas to choose from in health, IT, education and science, this is the smart way for you to advance your career and secure your future in the emerging economy.
Interested in commercialisation?
Griffith Enterprise is the University's dedicated office for commercial partnerships.
Wanting to showcase your verified skills?
Griffith Credentials are verified digital badges and micro-credentials that allow you to easily communicate your skills and accomplishments online.
Contact details
- Phone
- (07) 5552 8362
- Industry enquiries
- wil-gs.partner@griffith.edu.au
- Student enquiries
- wil-gs@griffith.edu.au
- Location and postal address
- Brisbane South (Nathan)
- Griffith University
- Building N79 (Room 1.04)
- 170 Kessels Road, Nathan QLD 4111
- Gold Coast
- Griffith University
- Building G09 (Room 1.65)
- Parklands Drive, Southport QLD 4222
Enquiry
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