Grants & Opportunities

Young People, Fintech Use and Future Financial Security. Young people’s rapid uptake of financial technologies (fintech) impacts their present-day financial wellbeing and capacity to create financially secure futures. This project will be the first to explore how young people navigate and understand the new landscape of fintech platforms and products, and to uncover the hitherto hidden impacts of fintech sorting and classificatory processes. We will use innovative research methods to interrogate the relationship between everyday financial practices and algorithmic platforms, developing a youth-centred approach to understanding the interface between them. This new knowledge will inform ongoing regulatory efforts, support youth sector practice and increase public understanding of fintech platforms.. Scheme: Discovery Projects. Field: 4410 - Sociology. Lead: A/Prof Steven Threadgold

Improving wheat nutrient use via the plant nitrogen–potassium–water nexus. To optimise growth and yield, plants must maintain careful balances of water and ions in their cells. While individual nitrogen, potassium, and water transporters that uptake nutrients from soil are mostly known, how these systems are co-ordinated is not, especially in important cereal crops such as wheat. This project aims to uncover new molecular mechanisms that co-regulate water and ion uptake in wheat. Results are expected to provide significant benefits to farmers by creating new options for improved nutrient use efficiency in economically relevant plants; reducing the need for, and impact of, costly fertilisers; and improving the long-term environmental sustainability of Australian agriculture.. Scheme: Discovery Projects. Field: 3108 - Plant Biology. Lead: Em/Prof Stephen Tyerman

Discovering natural hydrogen in continental interiors. Hydrogen (H2) is a crucial clean energy source with applications in industry and transportation. Currently, H2 production relies on high-emission steam-methane reforming, while 'green' H2 production through electrolysis is expensive and energy-intensive. The project focuses on the scientific and commercial potential of 'gold' or 'white' natural H2 generated by geological processes. Despite recent discoveries of subsurface H2 accumulations, large-scale commercial production remains unrealised. This project addresses this gap by developing a systematic, process-oriented approach to define geological controls on the origin and transport of natural H2 and provide a framework for identifying drilling targets and quantifying exploration risks.. Scheme: Discovery Projects. Field: 3705 - Geology. Lead: Prof Simon Holford

Income Inequality, Asset Returns, and the Capital Share in Australia. We aim to show that income inequality measured by income shares is currently mis-measured due to omission of several important sources of capital income, such as depreciation allowances, imputed rent, and capital gains. To address this, the project aims to develop an analytical framework equipped to construct corrected measures of income shares that include the omitted capital income and cover a much longer period than previous inequality measures for Australia, the US, UK, Germany, and Scandinavia. We expect that inequality has followed a trajectory that is quite different from conventional measures of the functional income distribution. This has implications for several strands of macroeconomic analysis and economic policy. . Scheme: Discovery Projects. Field: 3801 - Applied Economics. Lead: Prof Jakob Madsen

Tracking 600,000 years of flooding and aridification in Australia’s deserts. This project aims to provide unprecedented understanding of how tropical rainfall promotes excessive wet pulses and floods in Australia’s iconic dry, desert interior. This is achieved by developing a 600,000 year record of tropical rainfall and river runoff to the desert, becoming the longest and most continuous sedimentary climate record from the Kati Thanda–Lake Eyre Basin. Outcomes will unravel the global climate conditions that fostered extensive wet pulses in the past, providing unprecedented reference for the period of human migration and extinction of megafauna during the last 65,000 years. Outcomes will also inform how the desert responds to flooding, relevant to constrain risk to agriculture, infrastructure, and ecologic habitats.. Scheme: Discovery Projects. Field: 3709 - Physical Geography and Environmental Geoscience. Lead: Dr Alexander Francke

Pacific Powers: Imperial Competition and Cooperation in Micronesia. As geopolitical competition and conflict in the Pacific region grows, this project seeks to uncover the complex historical origins of this situation. It will assess why Micronesia has been the site of competing projects of power projection and how the people of the region have responded to radically different imperial powers. Using hitherto untapped archival materials in six different languages, it investigates how and why Micronesia was targeted and then conquered by the Spanish, the Germans, the Japanese and the United States before winning independence. In doing so, it seeks to offer a deeper understanding of our region, explaining why imperial competition in the Pacific has been the historical norm rather than the exception. . Scheme: Discovery Projects. Field: 4303 - Historical Studies. Lead: Prof Matthew Fitzpatrick

Resolving the PFAS exposome through advances in mass spectrometry. Per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances are a major class of persistent organic pollutants that have been detected in even the most remote and pristine environments on the planet. This project will deliver next-generation mass spectrometry-based analytical capabilities for rapid and confident identification of these substances across diverse sample types ranging from clothing to concrete and biological tissues and fluids. These technologies will close the knowledge gap as to the extent of molecular diversity in per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substance chemicals and thus provide critical insights into the exposure risks they pose to human health and the Australian environment (including Antarctic territories).. Scheme: Linkage Projects. Field: 3401 - Analytical Chemistry. Lead: Prof Stephen Blanksby

Fast and parallel logic gates for trapped-ion quantum computing. Quantum computers can simulate complex chemical interactions and materials in ways that existing quantum chemistry tools cannot. This project aims to develop key technology that will allow trapped-ion quantum computers to operate at a scale that makes them useful for commercial purposes. All current quantum computing platforms are limited by their ability to apply a large number of successive entangling gates. For trapped-ion systems, these limits can be overcome by non-adiabatic gate protocols called 'fast gates'. This project aims to develop versions of these tools that operate more efficiently when used in large scale next-generation quantum computers. . Scheme: Linkage Projects. Field: 5108 - Quantum Physics. Lead: Prof Joseph Hope

Active control of battery aging process for life extension. This project aims to extend the lifetime of battery energy storage systems for power grids by developing innovative approaches to control the battery aging process at a cell level. The project expects to utilise digital twin technology, integrating a deep learning model with an electrochemical model, to predict the impact of operating conditions on battery aging and regulating these conditions to control the aging process and extend battery life. The expected outcomes include longer battery life, reduced downtime, and increased throughput of battery energy storage systems. This should provide significant benefits to battery energy storage manufacturing and support Australia’s transition to sustainable power grids. . Scheme: Linkage Projects. Field: 4004 - Chemical Engineering. Lead: Prof Weixiang Shen

Educational re/engagement of marginalised youth via wellbeing and community. This Project aims to improve educational outcomes for vulnerable young people in rural, regional and remote [RRR] areas of Australia. It is well documented that health and wellbeing may be major impediments to schooling re/engagement; thus, the project expects to demonstrate the effectiveness of using community-based, interdisciplinary approaches to removing such barriers. Expected outcomes include the identification of key principles for models of support for the welfare needs of RRR youth before educational re/engagement can occur. The project's benefits align with Australian Government goals to improve educational access for youth in RRR contexts to improve lifelong prospects for employment, housing, health and civic participation. . Scheme: Linkage Projects. Field: 3903 - Education Systems. Lead: A/Prof Glenda McGregor

Distributed propulsion systems for future airplanes. This project aims to revolutionise the design of new airplanes by developing a novel method for controlling conventional aircraft. This will be achieved by the application of advanced control strategies utilising the advantages of distributed propulsion systems. It will also pave the way for the use of electric and hybrid propulsion systems resulting in a significant reduction in carbon emission in the aviation sector. The benefits to the Partner Organisation will be the necessary experimental dataset and control algorithm to advance their project. Other potential outcomes include widely applicable knowledge and skills, improved modelling and experimental techniques and tools, training of PhDs, and enhanced international collaborations. . Scheme: Linkage Projects. Field: 4012 - Fluid Mechanics and Thermal Engineering. Lead: Prof Maziar Arjomandi

Evidence-based interventions to improve working conditions for nurses. This project aims to investigate the processes by which hospitals implement an innovative new ‘toolkit’ of evidence-based procedures to reduce workplace exposures to hazards that affect risk of musculoskeletal disorders and chronic stress in nurses. Implementation science will inform the formulation of indicators of intervention quality. Impacts on hazard exposures will be quantified and likely cost-benefits for workplaces calculated. The anticipated outcomes will inform the development and dissemination of new resources and guidance that promote more widespread workplace use of cost-effective management methods, with expected future improvements in working conditions that promote increased workforce participation of nurses.. Scheme: Linkage Projects. Field: 3505 - Human Resources and Industrial Relations. Lead: Prof Jodi Oakman

A Modular and Open Testbed for Next-Generation Strategic Travel Models. This project aims to improve evidence-based decision-making in relation to transport policies and investments. It is expected to generate new knowledge about how best to develop next-generation models that can reliably measure and forecast Australia’s transport needs, while taking into account emerging travel options and new technologies. Anticipated outcomes of this project include a new, open-access strategic travel model for the Sydney Greater Metropolitan Area based on activity-based travel demand methods and dynamic traffic assignment. This should provide significant benefits, including more accurate and transparent forecasting of the economic, social and environmental impacts of investments in road infrastructure and public transport.. Scheme: Linkage Projects. Field: 3509 - Transportation, Logistics and Supply Chains. Lead: Prof Michiel Bliemer

Swinging both ways – the genetic control of sex expression in hemp . Hemp is an emerging Australian crop that produces high-quality edible oils and plant-based protein from seeds. Hemp typically has separate male and female plants, with 50% of the crop being males that don’t produce seed, causing low and variable yields. This project will characterize novel sex-determining genetic factors in hemp, allowing us to modify male plants so they produce seed in addition to pollen. Project outcomes include new knowledge on hemp sex expression, novel hemp crop technologies and associated germplasm that will deliver significant increases to seed yields of up to 50%. The improved crop performance will speed up adoption of hemp, enhance profitability for farmers and reduce cost of hempseed products for consumers.. Scheme: Linkage Projects. Field: 3004 - Crop and Pasture Production. Lead: Prof Tobias Kretzschmar

Advanced Microcarriers for Cell-Based Manufacturing . This project aims to advance the manufacturing process of biologics, that require cells for the manufacturing process. Traditional methods like roller bottles or multilayer culture systems face challenges, including limited scalability and high costs. In collaboration with Sydney-based Smart MCs, we will develop and test innovative biomaterials to build next-generation xeno-free microcarriers for large-scale adherent cell culture, streamlining production, reducing costs, and enhancing quality. This initiative will strengthen Australia’s biotech industry, positioning the country as a leader in biopharmaceutical manufacturing and ensuring independence, especially during critical times like pandemics.. Scheme: Linkage Projects. Field: 4003 - Biomedical Engineering. Lead: A/Prof Christopher Marquis

Re-imagining concrete as a carbon sink. This project aims to revolutionize concrete - one of the most used construction materials worldwide - to make it a carbon sink and a significant contributor to climate change mitigation. Concrete production results in around 8-9% of global carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. This project expects to better understand the interaction between CO2 and concrete towards capture/storage of CO2 within concrete. Expected outcomes include a model for climate friendly concrete production, a pipeline for concrete research harnessing big data, and nurturing the future workforce of multi-disciplinary researchers. Significant benefits of the project include reducing the carbon footprint of the concrete industry towards the eco-friendly urban development.. Scheme: Australian Laureate Fellowships. Field: 4005 - Civil Engineering. Lead: Prof Wenhui Duan

Transforming environmental governance for novel ocean-based climate action. Climate change is stimulating novel actions in oceans that are accelerating climate ambitions and disrupting communities and ecosystems. Government and community oversight of such interventions - which include chemically-modified seawater and genetically-modified coral - is unfit for purpose and ineffective. By developing new knowledge, partnerships, decision tools, and researchers, this program will generate governance innovations to minimise social-ecological risk and accelerate effective climate actions. The benefits and legacy of the Laureate program include transformative governance of novel ocean-based climate actions, a new climate-intensive field of marine policy research, and enhanced Australian leadership of global marine futures.. Scheme: Australian Laureate Fellowships. Field: 4104 - Environmental Management. Lead: Prof Tiffany Morrison

Reforming Australia's work disability benefit systems. Being unable to work due to injury or illness (work disability) is very common. This project aims to transform Australia's outdated work disability support systems of employer leave entitlements, workers' compensation and social security. Integrating approaches from multiple disciplines, the project will develop a new evidence base for work disability system design and delivery. Expected outcomes include new participant centred tools for assessing system effectiveness; new policy and service delivery options based on community preferences; and new knowledge about long episodes of workplace absence. Contemporary, evidence-based systems will deliver more cost-effective services and supports to reduce work disability and enhance productivity.. Scheme: Australian Laureate Fellowships. Field: 4407 - Policy and Administration. Lead: Prof Alex Collie

Integrated Resource-Energy-Industry Framework for Net-Zero Australia. This project develops an integrated framework to optimize Australia's transition to clean energy, industry and green exports. By connecting separate analyses of mineral resources, renewable energy, electricity networks and industrial development, we will create tools to evaluate pathways that maximize sector synergies, promote common infrastructures and align with trade partner demands. Working with The Superpower Institute and Geoscience Australia, we will help industry and government make better infrastructure investment and industrial development decisions. The open-source approach ensures broad access to these tools. The framework will help Australia maximize economic opportunities while supporting regional development in net zeros.. Scheme: Early Career Industry Fellowships. Field: 4008 - Electrical Engineering. Lead: Dr Changlong Wang

AI-Empowered ESG Data Analytics in Responsible Investment. This project aims to enhance the effectiveness of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) analysis by leveraging advanced AI and data management to improve risk assessment, performance forecasting, and report generation in responsible investment. By addressing challenges such as complex data and evolving ESG demands, this project will empower investors to make more sustainable choices. Expected outcomes include innovative AI and data management tools that provide more accurate and timely ESG analysis, fostering sustainable development and social responsibility. Additionally, the project will promote global knowledge exchange, talent development, and public awareness of the importance of responsible and transparent business practices.. Scheme: Early Career Industry Fellowships. Field: 4605 - Data Management and Data Science. Lead: Dr Zhengyi Yang

Network-wide quantification and mitigation of methane emissions from sewers. Substantial methane emissions from sewer networks have been reported by water utilities worldwide, yet effective control approaches remain unexplored. This project aims to fill critical knowledge and technology gaps in quantifying and mitigating sewer methane emissions. Expected outcomes include swift mathematical models for predicting temporal-spatial variations in methane production, real-time control algorithms of chemical dosing for network-wide cost-effective reduction of methane emissions, and a standardised guideline for reporting city-wide emissions from sewer systems. This project will deliver timely technologies to empower Australian water utilities to minimise carbon footprint, supporting the goal of Net Zero emissions by 2050.. Scheme: Early Career Industry Fellowships. Field: 4004 - Chemical Engineering. Lead: Dr Jiuling Li

Accelerating Agave Propagation for an Emerging Industry in Arid Australia. Agave, which thrives on marginal lands in harsh climates, is a versatile crop that can serve as raw material for biofuel, fibre, and liquor production. A major bottleneck to large-scale Agave cultivation is the slow and inefficient propagation of new plants via cloning. This project aims to increase production efficiency, survival rates, and transport efficiency using an innovative light treatment that impacts leaf wax production. Expected outcomes will directly benefit industry, who can tailor light regimes for their strains to boost plant production. Broader benefits will accrue as outputs lay the foundation for a nationwide agave breeding and production program, positioning Australia as a leader in sustainable, climate-proof agriculture.. Scheme: Early Career Industry Fellowships. Field: 3001 - Agricultural Biotechnology. Lead: Dr Aaron Phillips

New directions in geometric flows. A geometric flow describes how an object's shape evolves under applied forces, such as a bubble floating through air or a rubber band returning to its natural shape by releasing bending energy. In this process, factors like area, volume, and curvature are optimised within given constraints. This project will explore two groundbreaking geometric flows: Sobolev curvature flow and the target flow, both specifically designed to build on the candidate's recent breakthroughs. Now is the perfect moment to drive forward transformative progress on two renowned open mathematical problems: the Cartan-Hadamard conjecture and a challenge posed by Fields Medallist S. T. Yau. Key benefits include new knowledge and research capacity building.. Scheme: ARC Future Fellowships. Field: 4904 - Pure Mathematics. Lead: Dr Glen Wheeler

Deciphering contextual multi-pathway crosstalk in cellular decision making. This project aims to unravel how cells make decisions by decoding their complex internal communication networks. Like assembling puzzle pieces to form a complete picture, this project will determine how different signalling routes in cells fit together and also how this assembled network functions in different cell types. The project will also develop new methods to map these intricate networks across various cellular contexts and simulate them using computers. The benefit will be new knowledge of how cells process multiple signals to make decisions and new tools enabling more accurate prediction of cell behaviour. These advances will drive innovation in biotechnology, from enhancing biofuel production to developing more resilient crops.. Scheme: ARC Future Fellowships. Field: 3101 - Biochemistry and Cell Biology. Lead: A/Prof Lan Nguyen

Project Delivery Harmonisation for Urban Micromobility Infrastructure . This project aims to enhance delivery of micromobility projects by improved collaboration and consensus building among governments, private practice and communities through participatory research. This project is expected to yield substantial benefits, including facilitating the allocation of billions of dollars for many smaller-scale projects, leading to significant local economic growth. It aims to achieve the strategic goals of governments concerning health and decarbonisation, stemming from increased physical activity and reduced reliance on private vehicles. We will promote our research outcomes through high-profile industry organisations and partnerships with local and state governments to ensure widespread understanding and adoption.. Scheme: Early Career Industry Fellowships. Field: 3304 - Urban and Regional Planning. Lead: Dr Mike Harris