Nicole Boivin

Boivin's research uses knowledge of the long-term human past to inform contemporary challenges, particularly biodiversity conservation, ecological restoration, climate adaptation, food security and cultural heritage. Her work demonstrates how archaeological and historical evidence can reveal the long-term consequences of human actions, while also identifying practices that have supported sustainable and resilient societies.

This research has achieved substantial policy reach. Boivin's work has been cited in more than 65 policy documents, including publications by the United Nations, UNESCO, the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES), OECD, IUCN, World Bank, UN Environment Programme and national governments. She has also contributed expertise to ICOMOS in the assessment of nominations to the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Her current research continues this focus on connecting knowledge of the past with present and future challenges. The multi-institutional Australia in the Anthropocene: Linking Past, Present and Future initiative brings together researchers and Indigenous partners to explore long-term cultural and ecological change in Australia. Boivin is also involved in the ARC Centre of Excellence for Transforming Human Origins Research, whose programme integrates Indigenous, Global South and Western knowledge and aims to translate new understandings of human history into public education, policy and wider societal benefit.

Boivin also works to improve the culture and governance of research itself. Her research and advocacy address gender inequality, transparency, institutional accountability and the handling of misconduct in academia. She is an advisor to the Academic Parity Movement, an international initiative working to address bullying, discrimination and structural inequities in academic institutions.