The HEAL Future Leaders School (FLS) 2026 brought together emerging public health leaders from across Australia for an inspiring week of learning, collaboration, and connection. Designed for HEAL-funded and affiliated early- and mid-career researchers (EMCRs), the program strengthened skills in interdisciplinary research, policy translation, science communication, leadership, and influencing, empowering participants to address climate change and improve public health outcomes.
Held from 25–29 May 2026 at the University of Canberra, the program featured interactive lectures, expert panels, roundtables, problem-based learning, site visits, and networking and social events, including a valuable session with the HEAL Leadership Executives. The cohort included strong participation from First Nations researchers and those working in regional and remote areas, creating a vibrant and diverse learning community.
Scope
- Climate Science
- Colonialism and its Impact on Determinants of Health and Adaptive Capacity; Arts-based Approaches in Research
- Integrative Thinking and Systems Thinking
- Temperature Extremes and Bushfires: Urban Heat, Nature Spaces, and the Future Development of Cities
- New Ways to Build and Farm
- An Overview of the Policy Cycle and Research Policy Translation Strategies
- Use of AI in Public Health Research Planning, Conduct and Communication
Questions and more information
Please email Dr Enembe Okokon for further information – Enembe.Okokon@canberra.edu.au
Course Faculty
Chair, ACT Climate Change Council and Hon. Assoc. Prof, Australian National University
Director, HEAL National Research Network and Health Research Institute
University of Canberra
Co-lead: HEAL Network Indigenous Knowledge Systems Theme & NSW Hub
University of Sydney
Director, Centre for Environmental Governance University of Canberra
Director, Centre for Health in All Policies Research Translation
University of Adelaide
Member of the ACT Climate Change Council and Co-Lead: HEAL Network ACT Hub
University of Canberra
Director, NHMRC Centre for Research Excellence in Healthy Housing, University of Melbourne
Director,
Adaptation and Resilience Policy Team,
ACT Environment, Planning and Sustainable Development Directorate
A/g Assistant Director,
One Health, Climate and Environment Branch
Australian Centre for Disease Control.
Ms. Codie Bell
Policy Advisor
ACT Legislative Assembly
Team Leader, Research and Academic Services
University of Canberra
HEAL Network Knowledge Exchange Coordinator
Course Coordinator – HEAL Future Leaders School