Overcoming the Lack of Inclusivity of First Nations People in Neuroimaging Research

The global neuroscience and neuroimaging research community faces a persistent and critical challenge: the lack of diversity in study populations. This issue is particularly pronounced in Australia, where Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples remain significantly underrepresented in neuroimaging research. This underrepresentation limits the generalisability of findings and contributes to systemic inequities in healthcare delivery and outcomes.

Historically, neuroscience has been shaped by Eurocentric frameworks that often neglect the diverse ways in which mental health and wellbeing is understood and experienced by different cultural groups. This omission has far-reaching consequences, particularly for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, whose unique perspectives often overlooked in favour of Western paradigms. Indigenous conceptualisations of health emphasise interconnectedness, linking individual well-being to family, community, and Country; a stark contract with the individual-centric focus of many Western models.

Compounding these issues are historical and ongoing systemic barriers that have fostered mistrust of research institutions among Indigenous communities. The legacy of colonisation, the forced removal of children during the Stolen Generations, and unethical research practices have left enduring scars. Institutional racism, lack of cultural safety, and intergenerational trauma further alienate our communities from participating in research initiatives.

The implications of this lack of representation extend beyond ethics and equity. Research outcomes derived from homogenous datasets may fail to capture critical variations in brain structure, function, and response to treatments. This could result in ineffective or even harmful interventions for underrepresented populations, further entrenching health disparities. Conversely, studies that embrace diversity are better equipped to uncover population-specific insights, paving the way for tailored and effective healthcare solutions.

This talk will outline methods to address these challenges by advocating for greater inclusion of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in neuroscience and neuroimaging research. It will highlight the importance of Indigenous leadership in shaping research agendas and presents a case study of a collaborative, Aboriginal-led initiative as a model for inclusive practice.

Indigenous-led research represents a paradigm shift in neuroscience, prioritising cultural knowledge, ethical engagement, and community empowerment. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander researchers bring unique perspectives and lived experiences that enrich scientific inquiry and foster culturally safe practices. This leadership is vital in bridging the gap between Western science and Indigenous worldviews, ensuring that research questions, methodologies, and outcomes align with community priorities.

Indigenous leadership also addresses historical power imbalances in research. By placing control of the research process in the hands of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander scientists, the field can move beyond extractive practices toward reciprocal and equitable partnerships. This approach builds trust, enhances participation, and ensures that research delivers tangible benefits to Indigenous communities.

This talk aims to provide actionable recommendations for researchers, institutions, and policymakers to foster equity and diversity in neuroscience.