Rachel Burgess

Dr Rachel Burgess is Wonnarua woman raised on Woromi country in New South Wales. She is an experienced social scientist and senior Aboriginal Researcher of the END RHD Program at the Telethon Kids Institute, and an Honorary Fellow at the University of Newcastle, Australia. Dr Burgess recognizes how social, economic, political, and historical factors have negatively impacted the health of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in Australia. Her primary research focus has been on the prevention of chronic disease, kidney health and cardiovascular, and the improvement of health outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, particularly children and families living in regional and remote areas. She is a recognized leader in the design and implementation of ethical, culturally appropriate research in partnership with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. She has pioneered innovative research methodologies which empower community through self-determination and engagement, including the use of health promotion and the arts in health education.