About me
Inaugural Pro Vice Chancellor, Ngangk Yira Institute for Change, and Director of the Yorga, Maaman and Koolanga Research and Advocacy Centre, Murdoch University. AM., PhD., RN., Midwife, CATSINaM Fellow and Patron, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Scientist of the Year - Premier's Science Awards 2025.
Matrilineally descended from the Nyikina people of the Kimberley, Prof Marriott, AM has extensive senior University leadership experience, and maintains her professional connection with nursing and midwifery. She champions the translation of codesigned maternal, early childhood and youth research outcomes into national policy and practice to emphasise the strengthening of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander family futures through transformational research.
As PVC for the Ngangk Yira Institute for Change, she has drawn together a passionate team of Aboriginal and non-indigenous researchers for meaningful research partnerships with Elders and members from Aboriginal communities across Western Australia.
Rhonda’s Birthing on Noongar Boodjar project was voted ’10 of the Best’ by NHMRC and was presented with the Dr Lowitja O’Donoghue Leadership Award at the 2024 CATSINaM Conference. More recently Rhonda was the recipient of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Scientist of the Year at the 2025 Premier’s Science Awards, recognising her outstanding leadership and contribution to Indigenous health research. She is deeply honoured to serve as Patron of CATSINaM, a role she undertakes with great pride and responsibility.