PhD Student

Joshua Waters is a Gamilaraay PhD Candidate and Senior Research Fellow in the School of Humanities and Social Sciences at Deakin University. His research explores the vital role of indigenous knowledges in shaping global higher education and institutional systems.

A core member of Deakin University’s Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS) Lab, founded by Dr Tyson Yunkaporta, Joshua also serves as a Director of the Indigenous Knowledge Systems Collective (IKSC). In these roles, he fosters regional, national, and international collaborations that use Indigenous knowledges and complexity theory to drive innovative solutions and transformative change across global systems.

Scientist

Dr Katrina Wruck is a proud Mabuigilaig and Goemulgal woman and a scientist whose research focuses on breaking down harmful environmental contaminants. She founded Nguki Kula Green Labs, a profit-for-purpose business translating her research into sustainable solutions, and frequently engages with communities to inspire Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander learners into STEM. Katrina has received notable recognition for her work and is recognised as the 2025 Young Australian of the Year.

Ecologist and Entomologist

Kinjia Munkara-Murray is a Tiwi and Rembarrnga woman passionate about showcasing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander STEM practices. Growing up in the tropics of Larrakia Country and the Tiwi Islands, she was first introduced to science through family and Country.

Kinjia holds a Bachelor of Science (Zoology) and a Master of Bioscience, and her work as an aquatic ecologist explores insect-environment interactions, with insights grounded in connection to Country.

Chef

Kylie Kwong is an Australian-Chinese chef celebrated for using food as a platform for cultural exchange and community impact. She is known for her former restaurants Billy Kwong and Lucky Kwong, and for her advocacy work across cultural and community organisations. In 2023, Kylie was awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia for her services to hospitality and community engagement.

Senior Advisor – Diversity, Indigenous and Social Inclusion

Madii Page is a proud Wiradjuri woman whose passion for science began with a love of the ocean and support from inspiring teachers. She holds a Bachelor of Marine Science and a Graduate Certificate in Social Impact, and now works in diversity, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and social inclusion, driving employment strategies for First Nations and underrepresented peoples. Madii is committed to breaking down barriers and expanding STEM opportunities for young learners.

Laboratory Head, Immunology Division

Professor Misty Jenkins AO is a Gunditjmara woman, laboratory head at the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute’s Immunology Division, and an NHMRC fellow. Her research focuses on novel immunotherapy targets for brain cancer. She is also a passionate advocate for gender equity, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health, and education, and has received multiple prestigious awards, including recognition as an Officer of the Order of Australia.

Director and Founder of Waagayamba

Director and Founder of Waagayamba
Nathan Brennan leads Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander-led land management initiatives across Australia, supporting ranger groups to protect Country through community-led approaches that blend traditional knowledge and western science. He champions Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander leadership in land and sea custodianship and strengthens governance and cultural stewardship nationwide.

Aerospace Engineer

Taylah Griffin is an Aerospace Engineer from the Gangalu mob with strong ties to Gordonvale and Giangurra. She holds an honours degree in Electrical and Aerospace Engineering and works at Boeing Defence Australia. Taylah is deeply committed to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander STEM engagement, has served as a guest host on Triple J’s Science Hour, and has been recognised with multiple STEM awards, including a CSIRO Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander STEM Achievement Award.

STEM Student

Rilee Webber is a proud Kokoberran woman from Mount Isa in North West Queensland. She discovered her passion for science after exploring a variety of interests, from arts to sports, and early exposure to STEM sparked her curiosity about the world.
Rilee has attended several university camps, including WEHI, where she saw medical research in action and was inspired by scientists like Dr Misty Jenkins. She is currently studying a Bachelor of Science and aims to become a pharmacist to support healthcare access in rural and remote communities.