The University of Newcastle has signed a deal to bring US PhD graduates to Australia for an extra 10 months of study.

The university has signed on to the Fulbright Postdoctoral Scholarship scheme – an international education exchange program that aims to develop bilateral partnerships between Australia and the US.

The new deal will also allow a senior scholar from the US to take on six months of research of shared importance to Australia and America.

US Consul General Hugo Llorens says it is a first for Australia.

“Someone, while they're here, will actually contribute in a very tangible way to advancing research and it will be done in collaboration with Australian scientists and researchers,” he said.

“So, a lot of knowledge and a lot of valuable research will be done.

“The best thing is this cross-fertilisation where now you have a renowned American researcher connecting in a real way.”

University of Newcastle vice-chancellor Professor Caroline McMillen welcomed the agreement too.

“It is a great honour to be selected to partner with the Fulbright scholarship program,” she said.

“As a global leader, we look forward to engaging with this prestigious program to ensure that as a research intensive university we drive world class innovation in our region.”

The agreement will also see the University of Newcastle facilitate a national lecture series with a Distinguished Chair candidate presenting on topics in their field of expertise.