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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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Discover our Fellows

Fellows of the Australian Academy of Science are among the nation’s most distinguished scientists, elected by their peers for ground-breaking research and contributions that have had clear impact. Each year the Academy may elect up to 24 new Fellows by ‘Ordinary Election’ and up to four additional Fellows by ‘Special Election’. From 1954 to 2025, there have been 965 Fellows elected to the Academy. Each year the Academy’s Council may invite up to two distinguished overseas scientists to join the Academy as Corresponding Members.
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Australia's research system

Understanding the resourcing, policies and structures needed to unleash the full power of Australia’s research and development enterprise.
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Our focus

We are uniquely positioned to understand the resourcing, policies and structures needed to unleash the full power of Australia’s research and development enterprise and to position it as a strategic national asset.

Reconfiguring our R&D ecosystem will elevate Australian research in an era of technological, geopolitical and economic disruption and amidst intense global competition. Maintaining research quality, collaboration and commercialisation are required to meet national needs.

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Three large telescope buildings under a starry night sky.

As the world looks up, Australia looks away

The Australian Government’s decision to withdraw from its association with the European Southern Observatory (ESO) is short-sighted and risks long-term damage to the country's astronomy capability.
Professor Chennupati Jagadish AC

Message from the President: March 2026

This month, the Academy welcomed the Australian Government’s 'Ambitious Australia' report, the most comprehensive examination of Australia's research and innovation system in decades.
Close up of NSW Premier John T. Lang’s signature

‘The Bearer of this Letter ...’ 

Newly discovered archival letters reveal how early 20th-century Australia deployed its scientists abroad, armed with prime ministerial introductions.
Parliament House, Canberra

Game changer: Australia on track to join world's largest research funding program

Academy welcomes Australia's move to join the world's largest research funding program, in a milestone win for international scientific collaboration.
From left to right: Professor Louise Baur, President of the Australian Academy of Health and Medical Sciences; Professor Kate Darian-Smith, President of the Academy of the Social Sciences in Australia; Professor Stephen Garton, President of the Australian Academy of the Humanities and Chair of the Australian Council of Learned Academies; Professor Chennupati Jagadish, President of the Australian Academy of Science; and Dr Cathy Foley, President of ATSE

Learned Academies and ACOLA: Joint response to the Strategic Examination of R&D

In a joint media conference, the Australian Council of Learned Academies and Australia’s five Learned Academies respond to the 'Ambitious Australia' report.

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Aerial Shine Dome May 2015 Credit Adi Chopra
  • Current

Incentivising business investment in R&D

The Australian Academy of Science is calling for an urgent national conversation on R&D investment in Australia.

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  • Planned

Australian Science, Australia's Future

Analysing Australia’s science capability to meet national challenges informed by the forces shaping our economy, the ASAF report identifies the eight science capabilities increasing most in demand over the coming decade.

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Bright Minds, Bold Voices: Food, science and the stories we swallow

Feed your curiosity with a fresh slice of the science behind what we crave, what we eat, and why.
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Bright Minds Bold Voices

Bright Minds, Bold Voices: From research to reality – Australia's opportunity

What happens when an influential Australian changemaker meets a trailblazing scientist? To find out, join the Australian Academy of Science for the 2026 Public Speaker Series.
Read more Register now
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National security and the economy

Safeguarding our nation, powering prosperity and enhancing industry through science and innovation.
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Our focus

The Academy is a vital nexus between the research sector and government and industry, facilitating dialogue, and balancing knowledge creation with security and economic opportunity.

We provide expert advice on national security matters that intersect with Australia’s research effort. We are also strengthen Australia’s scientific diplomacy architecture, promoting global scientific cooperation in Australia’s national interest.

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A woman sits on a couch surrounded by hands proffering laptops, phones, tablets and a megaphone. She appears overwhelmed and has her hands covering her ears.

The science of resilience: New insights on tackling mis- and disinformation

Investing in our physical and mental health is also an investment in our collective ability to resist harmful information, a new report reveals.
Professor Chennupati Jagadish AC

Message from the President: March 2026

This month, the Academy welcomed the Australian Government’s 'Ambitious Australia' report, the most comprehensive examination of Australia's research and innovation system in decades.
From left to right: Professor Louise Baur, President of the Australian Academy of Health and Medical Sciences; Professor Kate Darian-Smith, President of the Academy of the Social Sciences in Australia; Professor Stephen Garton, President of the Australian Academy of the Humanities and Chair of the Australian Council of Learned Academies; Professor Chennupati Jagadish, President of the Australian Academy of Science; and Dr Cathy Foley, President of ATSE

Learned Academies and ACOLA: Joint response to the Strategic Examination of R&D

In a joint media conference, the Australian Council of Learned Academies and Australia’s five Learned Academies respond to the 'Ambitious Australia' report.
Anna-Maria Arabia

Academy Chief Executive on the 'Ambitious Australia' report

The report provides a clear-eyed assessment of the strengths and weaknesses of the current system – and importantly, it provides a coherent roadmap forward.
Australia's Parliament House in Canberra with the flag flying against a blue sky with fluffy white clouds

‘Ambitious Australia’ report: There is not a moment to waste

The Academy strongly supports recommendations from the Strategic Examination of Research and Development to stop the long-term decline in research funding and to craft an R&D system that supports scale and focus. Without this, Australia will fall behind.

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Aerial Shine Dome May 2015 Credit Adi Chopra
  • Current

Incentivising business investment in R&D

The Australian Academy of Science is calling for an urgent national conversation on R&D investment in Australia.

International engagement

Elevating Australia’s contributions to global science efforts, strengthening our homegrown research and enhancing our international standing.
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Our focus

The Academy connects Australia’s science to global efforts, strengthening our homegrown research and international leadership. We position science as a tool of diplomacy and a means to navigate a complex geopolitical environment.

International engagement and partnerships are critical for addressing complex, cross-border challenges spanning climate, health, and space. The Academy is proud to represent Australian science on the world stage, through global forums such as the International Science Council and the InterAcademy Partnership. We shape global research directions and policy, elevate Australia’s influence and impact, and participate in partnerships that enhance the nation’s reputation as a responsible global citizen.

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Three large telescope buildings under a starry night sky.

As the world looks up, Australia looks away

The Australian Government’s decision to withdraw from its association with the European Southern Observatory (ESO) is short-sighted and risks long-term damage to the country's astronomy capability.
Close up of NSW Premier John T. Lang’s signature

‘The Bearer of this Letter ...’ 

Newly discovered archival letters reveal how early 20th-century Australia deployed its scientists abroad, armed with prime ministerial introductions.
Parliament House, Canberra

Game changer: Australia on track to join world's largest research funding program

Academy welcomes Australia's move to join the world's largest research funding program, in a milestone win for international scientific collaboration.
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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.
Professor Chennupati Jagadish AC

Message from the President: February 2026

Welcome to our first newsletter of 2026 – there is much to look forward to this year.

STEM education & jobs

Our commitment to strengthening Australia’s research workforce starts by empowering school educators and continues by promoting equity and diversity and supporting early-career researchers.
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Our focus

The Academy empowers educators, promotes equity and diversity, and supports the research workforce across all career stages, including fostering stronger industry connections.

Our programs help teachers deliver transformative STEM education that equips young people with critical skills. We champion equity, diversity and inclusion in STEM, demonstrating sector leadership in diversity initiatives and Indigenous reconciliation. The Academy’s Early- and Mid-Career Researcher Forum provides a platform for emerging scientific leaders to develop their skills and have their voices heard.
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Theo Murphy Initiative (Australia) 2026 grant funding recipients announced

The Australian Academy of Science congratulates the grant recipients of the Theo Murphy Initiative (Australia) grant funding for the 2026 round.
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Keynote address: Beyond gender – why intersectional diversity matters for lasting inclusion

This is the transcript of the keynote address by President of the Australian Academy of Science, Professor Chennupati Jagadish AC, at the Women of Colour in STEM Awards 2025. It was delivered on 6 October 2025 at the event in Melbourne, hosted by STEM Sisters.
A man stands in front of a large projector screen showing images of different AI-related books.

EMCRs tackle ethical and social challenges of AI in science

The Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Science conference, hosted by ANU in collaboration with CSIRO, brought together over 75 early- and mid-career researchers (EMCRs) from across Australia to critically examine AI’s role in advancing scientific research.
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Academy expert receives international award for mathematics education

Emeritus Professor Kaye Stacey has been awarded the 2024 Emma Castelnuovo Award in recognition of her more than 40 years of research-based design, development and implementation of innovative, influential work in the practice of mathematics education.
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New STEM primary school resources set to transform teaching

The confidence and capability of the nation’s primary school teachers to deliver Australia’s science and mathematics curriculum is set to receive a huge boost, thanks to new evidence-based digital educative resources developed by the Australian Academy of Science.

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Students making a circuit
  • Current

Primary Connections

Primary Connections is the Academy’s flagship primary science program to enhance teachers’ confidence and capability for teaching science.

Teacher and student
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Academy Education

Australian Academy of Science Education delivers evidence-based education programs to support effective science and mathematics teaching and learning in Australian schools.

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reSolve Maths

reSolve is the Academy's mathematics education program, providing innovative curriculum-aligned teaching resources and professional learning for teachers.

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  • Current

Science Connections

Science Connections is the Academy’s new secondary science education program for Years 7 to 10.

Advice and advocacy

Providing independent, evidence-based advice using the latest scientific knowledge to inform policy that shapes Australia.
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Our focus

By bridging the gap between scientific research and decision-making, the Academy advocates for policies that advance Australia’s wellbeing, prosperity and sustainability.

We provide independent, evidence-based advice wherever it is needed and we work with decision-makers to enable choices, legislation, systems and policy to be shaped by the latest scientific knowledge. We convene unparalleled expertise to produce rapid-response evidence briefs during emergencies, prepare long-term strategic analyses, and lead national conversations about scientific issues. From informing pandemic responses, to the future of the iconic Great Barrier Reef, and advocating for a science-aware justice system, the Academy’s expert advice generates impact.
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Related submissions

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Three large telescope buildings under a starry night sky.

As the world looks up, Australia looks away

The Australian Government’s decision to withdraw from its association with the European Southern Observatory (ESO) is short-sighted and risks long-term damage to the country's astronomy capability.
A woman sits on a couch surrounded by hands proffering laptops, phones, tablets and a megaphone. She appears overwhelmed and has her hands covering her ears.

The science of resilience: New insights on tackling mis- and disinformation

Investing in our physical and mental health is also an investment in our collective ability to resist harmful information, a new report reveals.
From left to right: Professor Louise Baur, President of the Australian Academy of Health and Medical Sciences; Professor Kate Darian-Smith, President of the Academy of the Social Sciences in Australia; Professor Stephen Garton, President of the Australian Academy of the Humanities and Chair of the Australian Council of Learned Academies; Professor Chennupati Jagadish, President of the Australian Academy of Science; and Dr Cathy Foley, President of ATSE

Learned Academies and ACOLA: Joint response to the Strategic Examination of R&D

In a joint media conference, the Australian Council of Learned Academies and Australia’s five Learned Academies respond to the 'Ambitious Australia' report.
Anna-Maria Arabia

Academy Chief Executive on the 'Ambitious Australia' report

The report provides a clear-eyed assessment of the strengths and weaknesses of the current system – and importantly, it provides a coherent roadmap forward.
Australia's Parliament House in Canberra with the flag flying against a blue sky with fluffy white clouds

‘Ambitious Australia’ report: There is not a moment to waste

The Academy strongly supports recommendations from the Strategic Examination of Research and Development to stop the long-term decline in research funding and to craft an R&D system that supports scale and focus. Without this, Australia will fall behind.

Related projects

View all projects
Library from above
  • Current

Accessing Australia’s Research Collections

A project to conduct scoping work to help understand the potential opportunities that a national approach to collections could deliver for Australian researchers.

Aerial Shine Dome May 2015 Credit Adi Chopra
  • Current

Incentivising business investment in R&D

The Australian Academy of Science is calling for an urgent national conversation on R&D investment in Australia.

Aerial image of the reef
  • Completed

Reef Futures Roundtables

The Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water engaged the Academy to convene a series of roundtables to support the Reef 2050 Independent Expert Panel in its role of advising government.

ASAF large
  • Planned

Australian Science, Australia's Future

Analysing Australia’s science capability to meet national challenges informed by the forces shaping our economy, the ASAF report identifies the eight science capabilities increasing most in demand over the coming decade.

Purple and blue abstract pattern
  • Completed

Advancing data-intensive research in Australia

Exploring opportunities and challenges associated with data-intensive research and provides recommendations to improve Australia’s research data ecosystem.

Climate and environment

Bringing scientific evidence to the forefront of Australia’s response to environmental challenges.
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Our focus

The Academy brings science and evidence to the forefront of Australia’s response to environmental issues – from natural disaster recovery to reversing biodiversity loss.

We convene independent experts to inform environmental policy, synthesise what we know about climate and environmental risks, and propose solutions and approaches to achieve net zero. Our climate science communication reaches broad audiences. Visit the Climate Change Hub for more.
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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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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.
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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.
Cryopreservation and urban biodiversity: funding awarded to two research conferences focused on protecting Australia's wildlife-thumbnail

Cryopreservation and urban biodiversity: funding awarded to two research conferences focused on protecting Australia's wildlife

Wildlife conservation will take centre stage at two specialist conferences next year, funded by the Australian Academy of Science.

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Aerial image of the reef
  • Completed

Reef Futures Roundtables

The Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water engaged the Academy to convene a series of roundtables to support the Reef 2050 Independent Expert Panel in its role of advising government.

Scientific leadership

Future-focused strategies to facilitate transformative discoveries and innovation.
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Our focus

The Academy’s future-focused strategies facilitate transformative discoveries and innovation, keeping Australia at the forefront of global research efforts.

The Academy leads 10-year plans to shape scientific progress and help Australian researchers make transformative contributions. Our decadal plans offer structured, goal-oriented roadmaps and motivating missions for scientific fields spanning astronomy, nutrition, biodiversity and more.

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Professor Chennupati Jagadish AC

Message from the President: March 2026

This month, the Academy welcomed the Australian Government’s 'Ambitious Australia' report, the most comprehensive examination of Australia's research and innovation system in decades.
Anna-Maria Arabia standing under the arches of Shine Dome next to the blue water of the moat. She is smiling.

Anna-Maria Arabia OAM to step down as Chief Executive of the Australian Academy of Science

Over a tenure of almost 10 years, Ms Arabia's leadership strengthened the Academy's reach and impact across public policy, STEM education and global scientific engagement.
Anna-Maria Arabia

Academy Chief Executive on the 'Ambitious Australia' report

The report provides a clear-eyed assessment of the strengths and weaknesses of the current system – and importantly, it provides a coherent roadmap forward.
From left to right: Professor Louise Baur, President of the Australian Academy of Health and Medical Sciences; Professor Kate Darian-Smith, President of the Academy of the Social Sciences in Australia; Professor Stephen Garton, President of the Australian Academy of the Humanities and Chair of the Australian Council of Learned Academies; Professor Chennupati Jagadish, President of the Australian Academy of Science; and Dr Cathy Foley, President of ATSE

Learned Academies and ACOLA: Joint response to the Strategic Examination of R&D

In a joint media conference, the Australian Council of Learned Academies and Australia’s five Learned Academies respond to the 'Ambitious Australia' report.
Australia's Parliament House in Canberra with the flag flying against a blue sky with fluffy white clouds

‘Ambitious Australia’ report: There is not a moment to waste

The Academy strongly supports recommendations from the Strategic Examination of Research and Development to stop the long-term decline in research funding and to craft an R&D system that supports scale and focus. Without this, Australia will fall behind.

Emerging technology and innovation

Influencing how Australia develops and uses emerging technology, from precision agriculture to AI to quantum computing.
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Our focus

The Academy brings trusted and evidence-based perspectives to shape how Australia develops, advances and uses emerging technology for the benefit of all.

Our roadmaps and proposals to steer research, upgrade research infrastructure are critical in driving innovation, alongside strategies to integrate emerging technology across sectors, including defence, environment and energy. We lead national conversations on the impacts of new technology and inform policy with rigorous evidence-based advice.

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A woman sits on a couch surrounded by hands proffering laptops, phones, tablets and a megaphone. She appears overwhelmed and has her hands covering her ears.

The science of resilience: New insights on tackling mis- and disinformation

Investing in our physical and mental health is also an investment in our collective ability to resist harmful information, a new report reveals.
Australian scientist’s work on trade and climate change takes centre stage-thumbnail

Australian scientist’s work on trade and climate change takes centre stage

Australia’s National Champion Associate Professor Arunima Mali was named one of three international champions of the 2025 Frontiers Planet Prize, a prestigious award recognising research with the most promising potential to keep humanity within planetary boundaries.
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Academy honours pioneering breast cancer researchers with prestigious awards

Two distinguished researchers have been recognised with 2025 Academy honorific awards for their groundbreaking contributions to breast cancer research.
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Leading minds and emerging stars: Academy announces recipients of prestigious honorific awards

The Australian Academy of Science today recognises 22 scientists from across the country in its annual honorific awards, which celebrate the achievements of leading minds and emerging scientific stars working to solve humanity’s greatest challenges.
2025–26 Federal Budget: The vital infrastructure of today is supercomputing – not just roads and rail-thumbnail

2025–26 Federal Budget: The vital infrastructure of today is supercomputing – not just roads and rail

Australia’s 2025–26 Budget overlooks crucial investment in supercomputing, risking future scientific capability and security, the Academy warns.

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AI in science
  • Completed

AI in Science

The AI in Science project, delivered as a conference, aims to support Australia’s emerging early and mid-career STEM leaders in embracing the opportunities and challenges of rapid developments in AI.

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AI in science: the promise, perils and path forward – AI in science and research

In this panel discussion, experts from diverse corners of the research ecosystem will discuss how AI is accelerating innovation, the opportunities and challenges it presents, and what this means for trust in science.
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AI in science: The promise, perils and path forward - What is AI?

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AI in science: the promise, perils and path forward – AI and our food

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Bright Minds, Bold Voices

Bright Minds, Bold Voices: Reimagining how we fly

Join us to explore a groundbreaking Australian partnership that is set to change the way we travel the world.
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AI in science: the promise, perils and path forward – AI and our health

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The Australian Academy of Science acknowledges and pays respects to the Traditional Owners of all the lands on which the Academy operates, and where its Fellows and employees live and work. The Academy recognises Australia’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the first innovators and scientists of this land and honour their enduring connection to Country, from which we are committed to learn. We pay our respects to, and recognise the cultural authority of, their Elders past and present.

© 2026 Australian Academy of Science. All rights reserved.
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