A leading Indigenous epidemiologist whose work is transforming the understanding of health and wellbeing for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples has been awarded the 2025 Australian Academy of Health and Medical Sciences Outstanding First Nations Researcher Medal.

Professor Ray Lovett FAHMS, Director of the Mayi Kuwayu Study and a senior researcher at the Yardhura Walani Centre, Australian National University, has been recognised for his pioneering research into the cultural and social determinants of health, work that has redefined how evidence can be generated in service to community.

“I feel humbled and proud by this recognition,” Professor Lovett said.

“It is important to also recognise that the medal reflects not just me and my work, it is recognition for all those involved, the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who have generously given their time and wisdom to our research, the community organisations who partner with us, the team I lead and the leadership of our Centre. Together we strive toward a vision and commitment to doing research in service to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community.”

Professor Lovett’s research explores how culture protects health and wellbeing, and how historical and ongoing settler-colonial processes continue to shape health outcomes. His flagship project, the Mayi Kuwayu Study, is the largest and most comprehensive longitudinal study of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adults ever undertaken, with more than 13,000 participants nationwide.

“The work we do is focused on understanding how Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture — including cultural determinants — protect health and wellbeing, while also examining how historical and ongoing settler-colonial processes are a risk to health,” he said. “This work is deeply personal for me. My grandmother was a Stolen Generations survivor. It is her drive, foresight, wisdom, humility and empathy that have guided all aspects of my values and career.”

Academy media contact: Khaled Chakli: [email protected] (0423 099 568)