L-R Natural Hazards Research Australia’s Board Chair Iain MacKenzie, Dr Kiam Padamsey and CEO Andrew Gissing.
ECU's School of Medical and Health Sciences researcher, Dr Kiam Padamsey, impact on smoke exposure and safety protocols has been recognised by Natural Hazard Research Australia, Australia's national centre for natural hazard resilience and disaster risk reduction, Dr Padamsey received the 2025 Student Research Award for the exceptionally high impact and standard of his research. He adds this accolade to his existing 2025 award for Injury Prevention & Safety Promotion Award for Outstanding Achievement in Influencing Injury Policy or Research. A fact made more remarkable, as Dr Padamsey only finished his PhD in 2024.
Dr Padamsey's research has influenced operational procedures and systems for Western Australian government departments and based off the latest recommendations surrounding his research, which is attracting national and international interest, and led to collaborations with other leading universities and the Kids Institute.
Beyond his academic honours, Dr Padamsey is a highly accomplished individual, having been a commercial pilot and instructor, a senior first aid qualification holder, he is a training officer at South Coogee Volunteer Bushfire Brigade, as well as a black belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu – all of which are principles he has incorporated into the classroom.
"Teaching on and off the mats has become my true passion. It is a tremendous honour for me to share my knowledge and guide others," Dr Padamsey said.
ECU congratulates all the finalists – particularly our own inspiring Dr Padamsey – on this well-deserved recognition of leading research that will continue to improve the welfare and safety of firefighters.
Find out more about Dr Padamsey's research.
