What's next for research? Translating innovation into global impact
The e-Grad School Global Conference 2026 brings together a global community of researchers, industry leaders, and policymakers to explore how research drives meaningful, real-world impact.
Building on the momentum of previous conferences, the 2026 theme focuses on how cutting edge research is translated into innovation, impact, and real world change locally and globally. As research systems rapidly evolve, the conference looks ahead, examining how ideas move from discovery to application, and how innovation can responsibly shape global futures.
Be part of a global conversation on the future of research. Gain fresh perspectives, connect with leading voices across sectors, and discover how your work can create real-world impact.
Conference focus areas
Emerging technologies
Exploring the technologies shaping the future of research and society - across AI, climate and sustainability, robotics, digital health, biotechnology, and next-generation research tools.
Responsible and ethical innovation
Ensuring innovation is inclusive, trusted, and responsible - addressing governance, Indigenous knowledge, research integrity, and the ethical use of emerging technologies.
Entrepreneurship and commercialisation
Translating research into real-world impact through industry partnerships, start-ups, intellectual property, funding pathways, and diverse career opportunities beyond academia.
Global collaboration and systems impact
Driving impact at scale through international research networks, cross-sector partnerships, and interdisciplinary approaches to complex global challenges.
Keynote speaker
Distinguished Professor Lyn Robyn Griffiths
Bridging genomics, technology, and translation for real-world impact
We are delighted to announce Professor Lyn Griffiths as the keynote speaker for the e-Grad School Global Conference 2026.
Professor Griffiths is a distinguished professor in molecular genetics with more than 30 years of research experience in genomics and personalised health. She is director of the Centre for Genomics and Personalised Health, which focuses on improving disease diagnosis, developing targeted treatments based on genetic information, and training the next generation of genomics scientists.
A passionate advocate for research translation and commercialisation, Professor Griffiths is also director of the MTP Connect and industry-led Bridge and BridgeTech programs, delivering commercialisation training across Australia for the pharmaceutical and medical technology sectors. Her research at the Genomics Research Centre has contributed to diagnostic breakthroughs for several neurogenetic disorders, including familial migraine, ataxia, epilepsy, and hereditary stroke.
Professor Griffiths has published more than 480 peer-reviewed international journal articles and has received significant competitive and industry funding to support her molecular and population genetics research.
Her keynote presentation 'Bridging genomics, technology, and translation for real-world Impact' will explore how population genomics research, innovation, and interdisciplinary collaboration are shaping the future of health research and personalised medicine
Conference format
- Keynote presentation.
- 20 minute research presentations from global contributors.
- Interactive discussions and networking opportunities.
- Focused on the future of research and real-world impact.
- Builds on the momentum of previous global conferences.
- Connects innovation, responsibility, and application.
- Engages academia, industry, and policy communities.
- Supports research career development and leadership.
The e-Grad School Global Conference series provides an international platform for graduate researchers to engage with emerging trends, connect with global experts, and explore the broader impact of their work.
Past conferences
2025: Indigenous knowledge in global research: celebrating and amplifying voices
The 2025 eGrad School Global Conference showcased Indigenous-led research, leadership, and cross-cultural collaboration across diverse regions including Australia, Aotearoa New Zealand, the Pacific, Africa, Canada, the United States, and Europe. Researchers presented inclusive research practices, amplified Indigenous voices, and strengthened connections between communities, scholars, and institutions.
Keynote speaker: Mr Francis Nona
2024: Exploring the potential of AI in research
Held in November 2024, the second annual eGrad School Global Conference explored how artificial intelligence is reshaping research across fields - from climate modelling and drug development to robotics and the creative arts. With over 600 participants and 28 expert speakers, the event highlighted how universities are embracing AI to drive innovation.
Keynote speaker: Professor Marek Kowalkiewicz
2023: Transdisciplinary research to battle global sustainability problems
The inaugural 2023 conference brought together international researchers to share innovative responses to global sustainability challenges. Presentations covered topics such as circular economies, climate resilience, and intellectual property’s role in advancing the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Keynote speaker: Dr Matthew Rimmer
Contact us
For all e-Grad School enquiries, contact the e-Grad School coordinator.