Research showcase uncovers impact of local studies

For the first time the Charles Darwin University Northern Institute hosted a research showcase in Alice Springs to highlight projects, how organisations can get involved and what impact research has in the region. 

A total of six researchers presented their research highlights across several disciplines including cross cultural awareness, education, demography, fire management, regional and remote sustainable waste management, and STEM.

Researchers included ACSES First Nations Fellow, Senior Lecturer and researcher Dr Tracy Woodroffe whose work examines the Australian Education System through an Indigenous Women’s Standpoint. 

Dr Rohan Fisher who is focused on supporting fire management in Northern Australia through three main areas of research including using Projection Augmented Physical landscape technology.

And Associate Professor Andrew Taylor who works with the Demography and Growth Planning team and aims to understand and advise on population changes in the NT and nationally. 

CDU Northern Institute Director Professor Kim Humphrey was the Master of Ceremonies for the event and said she looked forward to displaying social and policy research opportunities for the region.

“The Northern Institute is actually embedded into the community of Central Australia, and this is an opportunity to highlight the incredible work of extraordinary people working locally and across the NT,” Professor Humphrey said.

Part of the program included hearing firsthand from Northern Institute PhD graduates and their research journey. Local organisations and businesses will also learn how they can grow their research capability through obtaining accreditation as a First Nations researcher.

“Our researchers aim to develop an understanding of regional development and provide evidence to inform policy development, facilitate capacity building and respond to the needs of local communities,” Professor Humphrey said.

“This showcase is a chance for our researchers to share their practical knowledge and discuss the impact of their work.” 

CDU Associate Vice-Chancellor Central Australia and Barkly Jodie Summers said the event highlighted the research opportunities in the region.

“As the local university our students understand what is important for our communities. The Northern Institute has a fantastic program to ensure that the research undertaken in Central Australia is not only meaningful but practical to help the region develop and grow,” Ms Summers said.