Grants & Opportunities

Energy efficient ammonia electrosynthesis. This project aims to develop an electrolytic technology for the production of ammonia from renewables with a significantly improved energy efficiency using first-of-a-kind electrode designs recently discovered at Monash University. New knowledge in sustainable technologies is expected to be produced by integrated experimental and modelling studies on previously unexplored materials for ammonia synthesis. The target outcome of the project is a sustainable ammonia synthesis method that can replace the current fossil-fuel-based process. The technology to be developed from these outcomes is expected to be of significant benefit to Australia as a source of low-cost fertilisers for agriculture and as a means of storage of renewable electricity.. Scheme: Discovery Projects. Field: 3406 - Physical Chemistry. Lead: A/Prof Alexandr Simonov

Inducing essential bacterial enzymes to self-destruct. Antimicrobial resistance is a looming crisis. Breakthrough cell biology is needed to identify new targets and new mechanisms of inhibition. This project aims to probe the susceptibility of bacteria to a novel “reaction-hijacking” mechanism, which has recently been discovered by our team. This work expects to catalogue targetable enzymes in bacteria and probe the inhibition mechanism using chemical, structural and cell biology approaches. Expected outcomes include the discovery of powerful chemical probes to study key metabolic enzymes in bacteria and a blueprint for the design of selective reaction-hijacking inhibitors. In the longer term, this work will underpin new therapeutic avenues for bacterial infections of humans and animals.. Scheme: Discovery Projects. Field: 3101 - Biochemistry and Cell Biology. Lead: Dr Stanley Cheng Xie

Avant-Garde Kirchhoff's Laws Equivalent for Quantum Thermal Transistors . This project aims to formulate Kirchhoff's Current and Voltage Laws (KCL&KVL) equivalents tailored to quantum thermal transistors, which we pioneered. Drawing inspiration from the transformative impact of traditional KCL&KVL, which revolutionized the electronics industry, our endeavour seeks to extend these principles to the realm of quantum thermal transistors governed by the Schrödinger equation. This innovative approach will yield a unified set of KCL&KVL applicable to traditional and quantum thermal transistors, paving the way for advanced hybrid thermal control circuitry. The resulting software and design principles will catalyze advancements in electronics, including hybrid thermal management systems and chip-scale heat distributors.. Scheme: Discovery Projects. Field: 4008 - Electrical Engineering. Lead: Prof Malin Premaratne

Mind bender: how neuroactive drug pollution impacts wildlife cognition. This Project aims to investigate how widespread contamination by neuroactive drugs affects wildlife cognition and survival, and thus, the ecological communities they inhabit. It expects to generate new mechanistic insights into the emerging threat of pharmaceutical pollution across different scales of ecological complexity, from controlled laboratory experimentation to studies in the wild. Expected outcomes include new knowledge of direct relevance to chemical risk assessment and regulation. Findings should contribute significantly to understanding how wildlife respond to palpable environmental hazards, and enhance the evidence base for managing and securing biodiversity and vulnerable water resources—both in Australia and globally.. Scheme: Discovery Projects. Field: 3103 - Ecology. Lead: Prof Bob Wong

Investigating how nuclear bodies may establish cellular memory. This project aims to determine how nuclear bodies establish cellular memory. This project expects to generate new knowledge in molecular programming of immune cells, by leveraging interdisciplinary collaborations and using cutting-edge high-resolution microscopy, gene and protein knockout systems, as well as cell and chromatin biology techniques. Expected outcomes include new principles of how cells are reprogrammed for enhanced function & the ability to adapt to microenvironmental change for long-term survival. This should provide significant benefits such as knowledge creation that may lead to development of technology to reprogram cell function across many species, as well as enhancing Australian research capacity and recognition.. Scheme: Discovery Projects. Field: 3204 - Immunology. Lead: Prof Kim Good-Jacobson

Securing Privacy-Preserving Cloud Computation Against Active Attacks. This project aims to devise practical cryptographic tools for securing privacy-preserving cloud computation applications from active attack threats that go beyond eavesdropping. It expects to remove a fundamental barrier to secure deployment of privacy-preserving cloud computation technology. The project is expected to generate novel methods to significantly reduce the risk of cloud data privacy breaches which have plagued enterprise and personal data in recent years. Expected outcomes of the project include a practical active security toolkit for deployment in cloud applications such as privacy-preserving Artificial Intelligence services. This should benefit cloud services by bolstering privacy and reducing the frequency of data breaches. . Scheme: Discovery Projects. Field: 4604 - Cybersecurity and Privacy. Lead: Prof Ron Steinfeld

Into the Darkness: Measuring the Properties of Dark Galaxies. A fundamental prediction of cosmology is that galaxies without stars, Dark Galaxies, should exist. This project aims to exploit the new era in radio observations with the Australian Square Kilometre Array Pathfinder telescope, combining its deep radio imaging with optical wavelengths, to identify large numbers of Dark Galaxies. With this first-ever sample of Dark Galaxies, and employing innovative techniques, the project will produce fundamental new knowledge, answering outstanding questions about galaxy formation and the nature of dark matter itself. National benefits include inspiring the next generation of STEM students and scientists, while further enhancing Australia's international reputation in cutting-edge Astrophysics. . Scheme: Discovery Projects. Field: 5101 - Astronomical Sciences. Lead: Prof Duncan Forbes

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

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

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

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

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

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

Biomimetic Design and Optimisation of Gradient Interfacial Structure. This project aims to develop a new approach for creating strong, durable interfacial structures by mimicking natural strategies. It will establish an integrated framework combining recent advances in correlative imaging (lab-based and at synchrotron), multiscale computational modelling, design optimisation, and additive manufacturing. It uses kangaroo joints as a study system, which endure repeated extreme impacts throughout life and are unique to Australia. The project will uncover quantitative principles and deliver tuneable templates to design and optimise bioinspired interfacial structures, for high-performance applications in many areas including transportation, robotics, and wearable technologies.. Scheme: ARC Future Fellowships. Field: 4017 - Mechanical Engineering. Lead: A/Prof Junning Chen

Enhancing the Characterisation of Industry Designed Arrays of Spin Qubits. This project aims to develop a highly sensitive tool for characterizing silicon quantum chips, addressing a key challenge in building scalable quantum computers. This new characterisation tool will help Australian company Diraq Pty Ltd advance from prototype devices to large-scale quantum processors by improving the ability to detect and understand material imperfections at the atomic level. The outcomes of this project will support the development of commercial quantum technology in Australia, strengthen the nation’s competitive edge in a rapidly growing industry, and contribute to training a skilled quantum workforce essential for the future of technology.. Scheme: Early Career Industry Fellowships. Field: 5108 - Quantum Physics. Lead: Dr Scott Liles

Energy-Aware Routing for Electrified Fleets: Towards Zero-Carbon Transport. This project aims to investigate the efficient integration of Electric Vehicles (EVs) within corporate fleets by advancing energy-aware route planning technologies, accelerating the transition towards a net-zero carbon future. This project expects to generate new knowledge in the area of fleet electrification using interdisciplinary approaches that combine engineering principles with advanced AI techniques. Expected outcomes of this project include theory development for energy-aware, flexible EV routing, integrated with sustainable charging solutions. This should provide significant benefits, such as lowering operational and infrastructure costs related to electrification, while enhancing grid stability and optimising asset utilisation.. Scheme: Early Career Industry Fellowships. Field: 4602 - Artificial Intelligence. Lead: Dr Saman Ahmadi

Advanced Protection Techniques for Secure Code Reuse. This project aims to enhance protection against known vulnerabilities in reused code by contributing advanced knowledge and techniques. Code reuse has become prevalent to facilitate fast and convenient software development, especially with unfamiliar frameworks, but can introduce vulnerabilities from open-source code. The project will investigate known vulnerabilities on a large scale and develop countermeasures to identify and mitigate them across various platforms. Expected outcomes include improved rapid and secure software development and a robust and extendable vulnerability management repository for research communities. This will significantly benefit both developers and researchers by ensuring safer code reuse practices. . Scheme: ARC Future Fellowships. Field: 4604 - Cybersecurity and Privacy. Lead: Dr Siqi Ma

Advanced Membrane Engineering for Direct Lithium Extraction from Salt Lakes. This project aims to advance the development of innovative, loose-structured nanofiltration membranes using state-of-the-art fabrication techniques to enhance lithium and magnesium extraction from salt lakes. It is expected to generate valuable knowledge for advanced membrane development, focusing on membrane material design and ion transport theory within tailored polymer frameworks. The anticipated outcomes include improved direct lithium extraction technologies and integrated strategies for resource utilisation in salt lakes. This should provide significant benefits to our society by positioning Australia as a leader in lithium production, minimising environmental impact, maximising resource utilisation, and boosting economic prosperity.. Scheme: Early Career Industry Fellowships. Field: 4016 - Materials Engineering. Lead: Dr Zhikao Li

Rehabilitating Mines Through Ecosystem-based Approaches to Biodiversity. This project aims to develop best practice standards for the transformation of Australia's over 80,000 abandoned mines to transform them from sites of environmental degradation to functional ecosystems. This project will generate new knowledge on how to recreate habitats to allow animals to live and persist in rehabilitated mining landscapes. Expected outcomes include the development of national standards for creating fauna habitat based on co-design with academia, industry, regulators, and Traditional Custodians. Benefits for Australia will be significant as the project will provide models and standards for future mine site rehabilitation grounded in entire ecosystem re-creation.. Scheme: Early Career Industry Fellowships. Field: 3103 - Ecology. Lead: Dr Holly Bradley

Environmental Communication for Whales, Dolphins, and Restorative Futures. This project aims to uncover the communication dimensions of globally popular whale and dolphin watching to advance effective strategies for sustainability awareness. It expects to produce vital insights into why nature tourism often falls short of its potential to increase environmental understanding. Using comparative multi-sited ethnographic methods, it will generate new knowledge about environmental discourses and modes of identification that allow threats to species and ecosystems to be normalised or overcome. Outcomes will be amplified through national best-practice guidelines and interdisciplinary researcher and industry, government, and stakeholder engagement to deliver significant environmental, social, and economic benefits.. Scheme: ARC Future Fellowships. Field: 4701 - Communication and Media Studies. Lead: Prof Tema Milstein

Collaborative and Reliable Machine Learning in Edge Computing Environment. This project aims to deliver a suite of methods and techniques to enable collaborative and reliable machine learning (ML) over 5G/6G networks. It will generate new approaches to tackle the scalability and security challenges in training ML models in Mobile Edge Computing where data processing occurs near end users. Expected outcomes include novel techniques, mechanisms, and schemes for developing and deploying 5G/6G artificial intelligence (AI) applications with performance and privacy guarantees. It will drive Australia's 5G/6G initiatives by enabling edge AI applications in various areas such as smart cities and remote learning. It will strengthen post-COVID economic resilience and enhance Australia’s leadership in global 5G/6G research.. Scheme: Early Career Industry Fellowships. Field: 4605 - Data Management and Data Science. Lead: Dr Feifei Chen

Unlocking Australia’s hydrogen industry through large-scale salt caverns. This project evaluates Australia’s ancient salt deposits to identify optimal sites for underground Hydrogen storage. Salt caverns are the most cost-effective solution for this purpose, making it essential to characterise the sedimentology and structural geology of these deposits thoroughly. The project aims to optimise salt cavern sites in areas with limited geological data by employing an interdisciplinary approach using outcrop analogues from South Australia and the Northern Territory as inputs for novel physical and geophysical modelling. This innovative strategy will minimise Hydrogen leakage, enhance safety, and support Australia’s ambitions to become a key player in the global Hydrogen market.. Scheme: Early Career Industry Fellowships. Field: 3705 - Geology. Lead: Dr Rachelle Kernen

Bridging the Blue: Ocean Connectivity for All. Ocean connectivity –the exchange of water and organisms across ocean areas– is essential for healthy marine ecosystems, yet assessing connectivity is currently limited to experts. This project aims to make ocean connectivity accessible to all. Using cutting-edge ocean models and mathematical techniques, this project will bridge the gap between experts and a wide group of users by developing a reliable, user-friendly tool. The key project outcome will be a tool that allows the integration of crucial ocean connectivity data into marine management decisions. This tool is vital for addressing major environmental challenges and will provide significant benefits to sustainably managing, protecting, and restoring Australia’s marine environment.. Scheme: Early Career Industry Fellowships. Field: 3708 - Oceanography. Lead: Dr Mirjam van der Mheen

Balancing Autonomy and Control in Interactive Social Agent Design. The project aims to develop a comprehensive framework for designing AI-driven social agents that align with social roles and values. It will create innovative control mechanisms, enabling users to manage and adjust the behaviour of interactive social robots and avatars, as well as robust feedback systems that let users communicate preferences to ensure the agents’ actions are observable and aligned with expectations. By exploring agentic programming and social learning techniques, this research will allow AI agents to adapt to user preferences in real-time. This work will make social robotics technology safer, more adaptable, and accessible for diverse applications, including aged care, education and remote collaboration.. Scheme: ARC Future Fellowships. Field: 4608 - Human-Centred Computing. Lead: A/Prof Wafa Johal

Anticipating impacts and improving response to HPAI in Australia. The avian influenza panzootic has been catastrophic for wildlife and domestic animals, but has not yet arrived to our shores. This project is positioned shift HPAI preparedness and response from a reactionary to a proactive stance through evaluation and integration of state-of-the-art environmental surveillance approaches, revealing putative impacts of HPAI on Australian wild birds and identifying those which may play a role as virus movers is critical, and translating this data to the identification of high risk locations and periods for the poultry industry. HPAI is unlikely to be the only virus knocking on our door, and outcomes from this proposal are critical for us to prepare and respond to the next panzootic on the horizon.. Scheme: ARC Future Fellowships. Field: 3107 - Microbiology. Lead: Dr Michelle Wille