Naomi Priest

Prof. Naomi Priest is a Professor at the ANU Centre for Social Research and Methods, specializing in health inequities and the social determinants of health. She holds a PhD in Population Health from the University of Melbourne (2009) and conducted post-doctoral research at Harvard University. Her research focuses on racism's impact on child and youth health, particularly among Indigenous and ethnic minority groups, and integrates interdisciplinary methods for policy-driven solutions. She has led projects on anti-racism interventions, domestic violence in faith-based communities, and pandemic-related health disparities. Notable recognitions include NHMRC Career Development and Postdoctoral Fellowships (2017–2020 and 2010–2014).

Research Interests:

• Racial discrimination and health inequities
• Social epidemiology
• Child/youth development
• Cultural competence in healthcare
• Policy evaluation

Recent Work Trends: Recent articles emphasize systemic racism's biological and psychological impacts, pandemic-related socioeconomic disparities, and culturally grounded interventions. Over 119 publications span reviews, longitudinal studies, and policy analyses.

Awards & Grants:

• NHMRC Career Development Fellowship (2017–2020)
• NHMRC Post-Doctoral Fellowship (2010–2014)
• Current projects include the Reconciliation SA Anti-racism Toolkit Evaluation and Aboriginal Youth Cohort Study

Collaborations & Labs: Active in multidisciplinary teams at ANU, Harvard, and institutions globally. Leads the ANU Social Research & Methods Centre’s equity-focused initiatives.