Inaugural Indigenous Research Lecture 2026

Indigenous Science Research: Shaping Research Excellence and Leadership in Higher Education

The Offices of the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Innovation) and Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Indigenous Engagement) are proud to host the inaugural Indigenous Research Lecture as part of Research and Innovation Week and in alignment with the Stretch Reconciliation Action Plan (2025–2027).

We are honoured to welcome Professor Ray Mahoney, a proud Bidjara man from Central West Queensland, as our inaugural keynote speaker. Professor Mahoney is the Indigenous Science Research Manager at CSIRO's Energy Research Unit. and has recently been appointed as a Professorial Research Fellow with the Poche Centre for Indigenous Health. He is a nationally recognised leader in Indigenous health and science research, renowned for co-designing and evaluating community-led public health initiatives that improve the health and wellbeing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Through trusted partnerships with Indigenous community-controlled organisations across Australia, Professor Mahoney leads research that addresses community priorities, including clean energy transitions, climate-resilient housing, artificial intelligence in Indigenous healthcare, and the prevention of acute rheumatic fever and rheumatic heart disease. His work exemplifies the transformative impact of Indigenous-led research and innovation in addressing complex health and societal challenges.

The event is scheduled for Tuesday, 15 September, from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm. Afternoon tea following the lecture will offer attendees the opportunity to network and connect with peers.

To register for in-person attendance please contact Reshika Chand (r.chand@uq.edu.au)