Torrens University to host world’s leading Mixed Methods Research Conference

5 September 2026 | Media Release

Torrens University Australia will host the Mixed Methods International Research Association (MMIRA) Global Conference 2026 on its modern Brisbane campus from 24–27 August 2026, bringing the world’s leading researchers, methodologists and innovators together for a landmark event focused on the future of evidence, insight and interdisciplinary discovery.

Set against Brisbane’s growing global profile — including its preparation for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games. MMIRA 2026 will showcase how mixed methods research is shaping solutions to the world’s most urgent challenges: environmental degradation, climate change, health disparities, social justice imperatives, and the far-reaching consequences of geopolitical conflict.

Professor Aleks Subic, Vice-Chancellor and CEO of Torrens University Australia, said hosting MMIRA 2026 reflects the university’s leadership in research that covers multiple disciplines such as health, nursing education, psychology, business and management.

“Mixed methods research is now central to solving the world’s most complex challenges — from AI governance to public health, climate resilience and social equity. Torrens University is proud to host this global gathering in Brisbane and to help shape the next era of research innovation,” Professor Subic said.

“Torrens is committed to research that is applied, collaborative and globally connected. MMIRA 2026 will bring the world’s best thinkers to Queensland and position Australia at the forefront of methodological innovation,” said Professor Subic.

A global platform for Australia’s research future

The MMIRA 2026 conference aligns with Torrens University’s commitment to human-centred research, interdisciplinary capability and innovation ecosystems that connect academia, industry and community.

Professor Subic said the conference will strengthen Australia’s global research presence:

“Hosting MMIRA 2026 in Brisbane is an opportunity for Australia to demonstrate leadership in methodological innovation and to build new international partnerships that accelerate discovery and impact.”

Global keynote speakers announced

MMIRA 2026 will feature keynote presentations from internationally recognised leaders in mixed methods research, including:

• Professor Cheryl Poth, University of Alberta, Canada
• Professor Anthony J. Onwuegbuzie, University of Johannesburg; University of South Africa
• Pat Bazeley, Director, Research Support P/L; former Adjunct Professor, Western Sydney University
• R. Burke Johnson, Professor Emeritus, University of South Alabama, USA

These keynote speakers will join researchers and practitioners from more than 30 countries, with sessions spanning health research, education innovation, AI and data science, sustainability, Indigenous methodologies, and community-led inquiry.

The four-day program will include: pre-, post- and in-conference workshops, interactive round-table discussions, poster and full paper presentations, AI in MMR Panel discussion, editorial panel as well as social and networking events.

About MMIRA 2026

The Mixed Methods International Research Association (MMIRA) is the world’s leading organisation dedicated to advancing mixed methods research. The 2026 conference will focus on:

• New methodological frontiers
• Mixed methods in AI, health and sustainability
• Indigenous and community-led research approaches
• Evaluation and systems thinking
• Global collaboration and knowledge exchange

More information is available at mmira2026.com

Media enquiries: media.enquiries@torrens.edu.au