Honorary doctorate for Indigenous marine science leader caps JCU graduation week

A leading figure in Indigenous-led marine science, Uncle Bob Muir has been awarded an Honorary Doctorate by James Cook University during this week’s graduation ceremonies.

Uncle Muir, a respected Woppaburra Elder and Traditional Owner of the Keppel Islands in the southern Great Barrier Reef, is a leader in Indigenous-led marine science and cultural stewardship.

Through his role as Indigenous Partnerships Coordinator at the Australian Institute of Marine Science (AIMS) and the AIMS@JCU Strategic Alliance, he helps ensure Indigenous knowledge is respected, protected and meaningfully included in marine research.

Uncle Muir received the honour during the first College of Science and Engineering ceremony on Wednesday and said he was delighted to share the moment with family, friends and colleagues.

“I was a bit overwhelmed by all the support and recognition that came with receiving this honour – it was incredibly special to feel that from everyone,” he said.

“It was a sea of faces, and I even had a cheer squad. A lot of my colleagues were there, along with people I’ve worked with over the years, plus my mum, my wife, and my sister.”

He has dedicated his life to sharing knowledge and creating opportunities for future generations. His advocacy, leadership and deep cultural knowledge continue to inspire both Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities, as well as JCU staff and research candidates.

“The work we’re doing at AIMS is empowering for our people. I wouldn’t be there if I thought it was tokenistic,” he said.

“The way we engage with Traditional Owners is different – they have a genuine right to say yes or no to projects, to be meaningfully involved, and to build capacity. It’s about helping our people have more control over the management of their country.”

“Being called ‘Doctor’ is a great honour, but for me, being called ‘Uncle’ is just as special. That’s a title I can carry with me wherever I go.”

His honour comes as JCU celebrates the graduation of more than 800 students across ceremonies this week, from the Colleges of Business, Law and Governance; Healthcare Sciences; Medicine and Dentistry; Arts, Society and Education; and Science and Engineering.

JCU Vice Chancellor Professor Simon Biggs said ALL graduates should be proud of their achievements.

“Graduation marks an important milestone, as our students move from study into exciting new careers,” he said.

“They’ve shown real commitment and determination, and we’re proud to have supported them. We wish them every success in what comes next.”