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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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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.

Ronit Prawer

Australian Academy of Science announces new Head of International Affairs

Science diplomat Ronit Prawer will lead the international portfolio, as the Academy farewells Nancy Pritchard after 34 years of service.

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Fellows celebrated in King’s Birthday Honours

Six top Australian scientists have earned prestigious civic honours for their service across diverse research fields, from mathematics to immunology.

A collage of three headshots. From left to right: Professor Bostjan Kobe, Professor Malcolm Sambridge, Professor Alex McBratney.

Three Australians elected to the world’s oldest scientific academy

Three Academy Fellows have been recognised by the Royal Society for their outstanding contributions to scientific research and discovery.

Parliament House in Canberra

A starting point, not a solution: The 2026–27 Budget for Australian science

The Academy’s analysis of the 2026–27 Budget highlights first steps to reform Australia’s ailing R&D system, but measures won’t shift the dial on years of underinvestment.

Elina McGuire-Douglas smiles at the camera

Scholarship backs researcher’s work to prevent youth injury in Aboriginal communities

The recipient of the 2026 Douglas and Lola Douglas Scholarship in Medical Science says that community-led action can transform lifelong wellbeing.

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.

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Australian scientists bound for Nobel Laureate Meeting

Nine outstanding Australian early‑career researchers have been selected to attend the 75th Lindau Nobel Laureate Meeting, joining Nobel Prize winners and peers from around the world.

Dingo in the wild

Research round-up: Quolls, dingoes and bushfires

In this edition: Indigenous knowledge sheds light on quoll decline, bush-fires have long-term impacts on water quality, and tracing the resurgence of Murchison dingoes