The Cairns Institute | Research in tropical societies

Diverse Values of Nature for More Sustainable Decisions

An expert in biology, ethnobotany, and ecology, who works at the intersection of biodiversity, human well-being, and the dynamics of social-ecological systems, and breaks the boundaries across these d... Read Full Article

2025 JCU Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Research Cadetships

Expressions of Interest are now open for the 2025 James Cook University Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Research Cadetships, offering Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander undergraduate and hono... Read Full Article

Developing a better understanding of HR in the North

Dr Leigh-Ann Onnis and Dr Jane Oorschot are pleased to confirm the completion of 24 interviews with Human Resources professionals in Cairns, Townsville and Mackay. The interviews were a key element of... Read Full Article

Important Changes to Grant Submission Deadlines

Research & Innovation Services (RIS) has updated grant submission deadlines to align with JCU’s financial delegation requirements. A reminder to ensure your applications meet the new timelin... Read Full Article

Research

The Institute's research addresses critical points of social and environmental transformation in the tropics. We aim to be visionary, multidisciplinary, and driven by principles of social justice and reciprocity

Training

The Institute offers multiple opportunities for learning via higher degree research programs, focused non-award professional development and short courses, and collaborative research

Dialogue

The Institute informs and supports public debate about sustainable development and other issues shaping life in the tropics, creating democratic spaces for the dissemination and discussion of ideas and knowledge

Partnerships

The Institute's location in Tropical North Queensland and proximity to neighbouring countries in the Pacific and Southeast Asia offer unique opportunities for partnerships. We aim to provide cross-institutional leadership in relationship and coalition building with regional partners.