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IGNITE Vol. 2 Issue 1: Building the Foundation for 2026

IGNITE Vol. 2 Issue 1: Building the Foundation for 2026

The latest IGNITE newsletter covers ARC strategic plans, the Partner SharePoint Portal, and PhD scholarships opening soon

By IoT Water Hub

The January 2026 edition of IGNITE — the IoT Water Hub's monthly partner newsletter — is here, marking the start of Volume 2 as we move into an exciting year of research and collaboration.

In This Issue

This edition focuses on the critical groundwork being laid ahead of the Hub's first major ARC milestone on 10 April 2026. Here is what is covered in this month's issue.

ARC Plans and Policies — The Hub is currently developing seven strategic documents that will guide operations and research over the next five years. These include the Strategic Plan, KPI Framework, Translation Plan, Data Management Plan, Gender Equality and Diversity Plan, Mentoring and Professional Development Plan, and Communications Strategy. Each document is progressing through EMC review and approval, with the April deadline firmly in sight.

Partner SharePoint Portal — The Hub's dedicated SharePoint portal is now live, giving partners secure access to all Hub resources in one place. The portal is organised into five sections: Confluences Workshops, Project Development and Documents, Project Reporting, Projects and Outcomes, and Committees. A Progress Tracker has also been added so partners can monitor project developments across all research themes.

Website Coming Soon — A public-facing website is in development for launch in early 2026. The site will feature a Partner Directory, Research Themes overview, Project Showcase, and PhD Opportunities — giving the Hub a visible presence for prospective students, partners, and the wider water sector.

LinkedIn: Partner Spotlights and Polls — The Hub's LinkedIn presence continues to grow, with a 6.6% engagement rate. New initiatives for 2026 include a monthly Partner Spotlight Series and Water Moment Fridays featuring interactive polls and water facts. Follow us at @iotwaterhub.

PhD Scholarships Opening Soon — 23 PhD positions are being filled across the Hub's five research themes and seven partner universities. Applications are now open — visit our PhD Scholarships page for more details or contact us to express your interest.

Stay connected with the Hub by subscribing to IGNITE. Contact iotwater@qut.edu.au to be added to the mailing list.