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Explore updates on Academy initiatives, scientific developments, and expert perspectives on issues shaping research and policy. Our commentary reflects the Academy’s role in fostering informed discussion and sharing thought leadership that connects science with society.
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A person's gloved hands cradle a very cute platypus

Research round-up: Return of the platypuses

Also in this edition: don’t judge a sperm by its looks, and rainbowfish at risk.

A collage of three images. Two smaller squares on the left show old photos and drawings of people on the ice. The main image shows two men looking at a framed Union Jack flag and photograph, resting on a table.

Flag from 1908 Mawson trek delights Antarctic expeditioners

The Australian National Antarctic Research Expedition (ANARE) Club celebrated 75 years of exploration at the Shine Dome.

A close-up of a hand-drawn geological map on a piece of yellowing paper

Historical geology material recently acquired at the Fenner Archives

Field books reveal how pioneering geologist Professor David Green carried out his work in Papua New Guinea in the 1950s.

A large group of people posing for a group photo on a grassy area in front of a building, with a woven mat in the foreground

Pacific leaders and researchers unite to strengthen food systems resilience ahead of COP31

The 'Pacific Resilience by Design Symposium' explored practical pathways for strengthening food security in the face of climate change, economic shocks and growing regional challenges.

Grassland-covered hills beneath a cloudy sky

Research round-up: What will Australia’s ecosystems look like in 2100?

Also in this edition: the problem with prescribed burning in a biodiversity hotspot, and how Indigenous Knowledge contributes to drug discovery.

Clockwise from top left: Dr Jing He, Dr Jake Robinson, Dr Rocio Camacho Morales and Dr Jackie Webb.

2026 J G Russell Award recognises diverse research projects 

Four early-career researchers will receive top-up grants to advance their experimental work.

Three portrait images of women researchers smiling

Academy fellowships link conservation and climate expertise worldwide

Three researchers – with work spanning human behaviour, invasive species and ancient climate patterns – will share conservation and climate science across Australia and internationally thanks to prestigious Academy fellowships.

Three portrait images of researchers

Emerging ecology researchers boosted by Margaret Middleton Fund

From the desert to the ocean, early-career scientists are deploying cutting-edge conservation to help Australia's endangered wildlife.

From ice sheets to gum trees: Nine projects receive 2026 Thomas Davies Research Grant backing-image

From ice sheets to gum trees: Nine projects receive 2026 Thomas Davies Research Grant backing

Nine early-and mid-career researchers (EMCRs) have received the 2026 Thomas Davies Research Grant for Marine, Soil and Plant Biology.