What We Do
NISTC translates Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander scientific knowledge into enterprise, research, and innovation. Our work is grounded in community-led priorities and powered by deep partnerships with government, industry, and academia.
OUR FOCUS AREAS
- Enterprise Development: Supporting Indigenous businesses that are grounded in science and innovation.
- Knowledge Translation: Bridging Indigenous knowledge systems with Western scientific frameworks.
- Research & Innovation: Partnering on cutting-edge projects in areas such as bio-materials, health, land restoration, and traditional ecological practices.
- Capacity Building: Equipping Indigenous people with the tools, platforms, and pathways to lead innovation on their own terms.
Every project is developed with respect for cultural protocols, intellectual property, and long-term benefit to community.
Featured Project
Commercial evaluation of Australian native Mentha species through analysis of propagation, metabolomics, volatilomics, pathology, and revegetation potential
Keely Perry
BBiotech(Hons), PhD Student, School of Agriculture and Food Sustainability
Associate Lecturer, School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences
The University of Queensland
This PhD project explores how Australian native mint plants (Mentha species) can be grown, used, and managed in sustainable ways. The research looks at both their commercial potential and their role in healthy ecosystems.
The project studies the best ways to grow and propagate selected Australian native mints, with the aim of making cultivation more reliable and scalable. It also investigates plant health by examining fungal diseases that may affect these species and how native mints may naturally resist them. This helps improve biosecurity and long-term crop resilience.
The research analyses the natural chemical compounds found in Australian native mints and compares them with commonly used European mint species. This helps identify unique flavours, aromas, and properties that may be useful in food, beverages, fragrances, or other applications. Safety testing and taste assessments are included to ensure the plants are safe and suitable for use.
The project also looks at how Australian native mints can be used in revegetation and sustainable land management, including how well they adapt to different environments.
This research is carried out in close partnership with Indigenous communities and Indigenous-led businesses across eastern Australia. It focuses on six Australian native mint species and is guided by respectful collaboration, shared benefits, and practical outcomes.
