Associate Professor Elaine Ḻäwurrpa Maypilama is a senior research fellow at the Molly Wardaguga Research Centre. She is a Yolŋu Cultural Authority and resident of Galiwin’ku, Northern Territory. Maypilama has a background in primary school teaching and education, with 20 years’ experience in applying Yolŋu research methods and methodologies. Ḻäwurrpa provides expert Yolŋu guidance on all research activities and community engagement processes in Galiwin’ku, North East Arnhem Land. She will mentor Dr Ireland in management of the project and ensure that research processes are Yolŋu-centred and culturally responsive.

Ḻäwurrpa is also a Principal Research Fellow at the Northern Institute with expertise in nutrition, maternal health, hearing loss, sign language, chronic disease and children’s health and development.

Läwurrpa was awarded an Honorary Doctorate from CDU in 2013. She also has an Associate Diploma in Teaching from Batchelor Institute. She is widely respected for her high level of expertise in developing and conducting culturally responsive and high-quality research. Her advice and participation are frequently sought, not only by researchers and others working with Yolŋu but from across Australia.