Professor Emma Kowal is a leading expert in the social, ethical and cultural implications of genomics in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. As a result of her research, Indigenous genomics has developed as a recognised area of importance both within Indigenous health and within precision medicine.

Professor Kowal’s work developing national frameworks for biospecimen handling and a training program for Indigenous people in genomics has been recognised internationally. Her contributions, particularly through the National Centre for Indigenous Genomics, the Genomics Health Futures Mission and Genomics Australia will allow Indigenous Australians to access the benefits of genomics and precision medicine.