Two emerging First Nations researchers have been recognised by the Australian Academy of Science for work delivering practical, community-led responses to some of Australia's most pressing environmental and food security issues.
University of Sydney researcher Cassandra Sedran-Price and University of Queensland PhD candidate Jacob Birch have been named joint recipients of the Academy's 2026 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Scientist Award.
The award celebrates Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander PhD students and early-to-mid-career scientists making a strong contribution across the physical and biological sciences, with both winners recognised for research grounded in community benefit, climate resilience and Indigenous-led solutions.
Video: Australian Academy of Science.
Dr Sedran-Price, a Muruwari woman of the Gangugari clan, is leading work that highlights the importance of seed banking as a response to climate change.
Her research shows how community-led seed banks can help protect culturally important plant species while also opening pathways in bush foods, education and environmental restoration.
The work is being carried out in partnership with Bundjalung Tribal Society at Namabunda Farm in Alstonville, New South Wales, where Indigenous knowledge and Western science are being brought together to support biodiversity and strengthen community wellbeing through an on-country seed bank.
Dr Sedran-Price said the recognition belonged not just to her, but to the community helping guide the project.
"I share this award with Bundjalung Tribal Society, whose vision and guidance continue to strengthen and inspire this work grounded in country, culture and climate resilience," said Dr Sedran-Price.
She said the award also reflected a growing shift in how research is being understood and valued in Australia.
"The Academy's acknowledgement of this community-led, on-Country science reflects the growing importance of Indigenous leadership, knowledge systems and governance in research."
Mr Birch, a Gamilaraay man, is focused on rebuilding native grain systems in parts of Australia that are facing increasing pressure from climate change.
His research centres on bringing back drought-tolerant grain species suited to Australia's conditions, with the aim of strengthening food security and creating a platform for Indigenous-led economic development in vulnerable regions.
Mr Birch, who is also Managing Director of social enterprise Yaamarra & Yarral, said the work is particularly important in the northern Murray-Darling Basin.
"The northern Murray-Darling Basin is highly susceptible to climate change, so we are rebuilding resilience in the landscape through species like ganalay, which is incredibly drought tolerant," said Mr Birch.
He said the award funding would help push the research forward and ensure its benefits flow back to community.
"This award funding will allow me to advance this research and it's the whole community that will benefit."
