Fatima Yaqoot

Professor Fatima Yaqoot is a pharmacist, epidemiologist, sleep scientist, and Director of the Let's Yarn About Sleep program at the University of the Sunshine Coast. Holding a PhD in Epidemiology from the University of Queensland, an M.Tech in Pharm Tech from NIPER, and a Graduate Certificate in Adult Sleep Science from UWA, she has established herself as a leading expert in sleep health research with a focus on Indigenous communities.

• University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, Australia
• Office location: MB-MBA4-2-2.23, Moreton Bay Campus
• Director of Let's Yarn About Sleep program (letsyarnaboutsleep.org)

Professor Yaqoot's research exemplifies the integration of multidisciplinary, translational research with culturally responsive, co-designed programs. Her work addresses sleep health inequities in First Nations communities through community co-design, end-user empowerment, and shared decision-making. She has secured over $19 million in competitive research funding since 2018 as Chief Investigator, including four MRFF grants and three NHMRC grants.

Her research demonstrates significant connections between sleep quality and educational/health outcomes in Indigenous populations. The Let's Yarn About Sleep program has enhanced community awareness, created Australia's first Indigenous Sleep Coach training, and developed resources for clinicians managing sleep disorders. Her team collaborates with 16 communities to strengthen local capacity in sleep healthcare.

• Board Director, Sleep Health Foundation
• Member of the Indigenous Working Party of the Australasian Sleep Association

Professor Yaqoot has been featured in over 600 media stories across major platforms including The Guardian, The Daily Telegraph, SBS, and ABC News. She actively contributes to public understanding through The Conversation and Koori Mail, with her research being translated for international audiences.