The Northern Institute is a regional leader in social and policy research. In partnership with governments, industry, non-government organisations and communities, we aim to make positive changes by providing strong evidence for policy and program development.
PhD and Master by research
Study with the Northern Institute through a PhD or MRes. We offer expert supervision and a unique research experience in Northern Australia. Build on your research foundations and make meaningful developments in your community or area of interest.
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Welcome to the Northern Institute (NI). Since its establishment at Charles Darwin University in 2010, NI has become one of the leading centres for social and policy research and postgraduate education in Northern Australia. The Institute draws on the expertise of nearly 50 core research and teaching staff trained in anthropology, sociology, social policy, public health, demography, statistics, economics, education, linguistics, environmental science, Indigenous studies, and more. We undertake rigorous, ethical research and research training relevant to regional and remote societies, all with a demonstrated commitment to working in partnership with government, non-government, industry, and community sectors, including partnering internationally, particularly in Asia and the Pacific.
Since its formation, NI has pioneered meaningful forms of collaborative and co-designed research and evaluation, especially with First Nations organisations and communities, and we pride ourselves on the integrity of these partnerships. Equally, NI is a centre for postgraduate education and research training in policy and program implementation. We have an unparalleled knowledge of regional and remote issues and the policy context of Northern Australia – making us a key agency for informed, independent analysis. With branches in Garramilla/Darwin and Mparntwe/Alice Springs – and a pool of researchers with decades of experience working locally, internationally, and on country – NI is a respected ‘think tank’ for regional Australia and beyond.
Northern Institute Events
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News
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Fire in motion: New animation platform and updates to key bushfire resources
A demand for data to inform fire management has prompted Charles Darwin University researchers to develop a tool animating historic bushfires across Australia.
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Research project leads to sacred sites registrations
A collaboration between Traditional Owners and a Charles Darwin University PhD student has resulted in 11 sacred sites across Arnhem Land being registered by the Aboriginal Areas Protection Authority.
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Transport study reveals why journey is as important as the destination
A days’ long canoe voyage along the Arnhem Land coast can now be completed within hours in a tinnie, but accelerating movement has unique and complex implications for Indigenous peoples’ relationship with their ancestral Country, according to a new research paper.
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Northern Institute’s research & teaching aligns with several UN Sustainable Development Goals, and we work to foster a world of equity, diversity & sustainability for present and future generations.
NI acknowledges the Larrakia Nation (Saltwater People), the Traditional Custodians of the region where our NI Research Support Services are located and their continuing governance and care for community, land and waters. We pay our respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures and elders past and present. We stand with Indigenous struggles for social justice, empowerment and equity in Australia and globally.
⚠️ Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples should be aware that this website, linked publications and content may contain images, voices and names of people who have died.