THE UNIVERSITY OF QUEENSLAND

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2022 · 2022-01

Making peptides orally bioavailable. Bioactive peptides are exceptionally useful molecules, however to fully realise their exciting applications key limitations need to be overcome: they can't be delivered orally and they do not last long in the body. This project aims to develop a molecular tag that can dramatically enhance both the oral absorption and time in the body of a peptide. This will include identifying the key elements of the tag required for function, the breadth of peptide cargoes it can be applied to and the mechanisms underlying this technology. The outcomes of this project will facilitate the future development of peptides for biotechnology, pharmaceutical and veterinary applications. Field of research: 0304 - Medicinal and Biomolecular Chemistry The study of endogenous human peptide hormones and bioactive peptides from natural sources have led to the realisation that they have huge potential in biotechnology. Despite this potential, peptides are still difficult to deliver to the body and are also rapidly cleared, which substantially limits their range of applications. We have developed a molecular engineering approach that overcomes these two key limitations of peptides and in this project we propose to investigate breadth of applications and the mechanism of how this strategy works. The outcomes will result in advancements in methodologies and technologies for Australia's biotechnology sector, novel research tools to study human physiology, patentable ligands with future applications in human health. These will be of value to industry partners and entrepreneurial spin-offs, increase Australia’s knowledge base with trained higher degree students and research staff, attract national and international scientific collaborations, and further enhance recognition and competitiveness for Australia in biotechnology innovation.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2022 · 2022-01

Fundamental neurocognitive mechanisms underpinning creative thought. The project aims to understand the neural and cognitive bases of creative thought by using a novel approach and recent framework that has emerged from the study of semantic cognition and executive control functions. Creative thought is fundamental to human advances throughout history and it is the foundation to all arts and sciences. Expected outcomes are a framework that can explain the source of knowledge and the evaluative mechanisms needed to generate new and useful ideas. Significant benefits will be to advance our understanding of the neurocognitive mechanisms of creative thought, which can enhance Australia’s scientific capability through training and collaboration and broader society by enhancing capacity for innovative thinking. Field of research: 1701 - Psychology The project aims to understand the behavioural and brain bases of creative thought by using a novel approach at the intersection between executive control operations and semantic cognition. Creative thought is fundamental to all human advances; it reflects what is unique about humans. It is essential to scientific discovery and every Australians’ ability to maintain health and well-being into older age as it enables us to solve problems as they arise in daily life to remain living longer at home. This project will give an understanding of what knowledge sources and evaluation processes we need to generate new and useful ideas. The intention is to identify the optimal conditions for developing creative thought for educators of all Australians, including our children, youth and older adults. This will impact Australia’s scientific capability through training and broader society by enhancing capacity for innovative thinking. This will benefit many Australians solving real world problems and innovating new technologies to address our national challenges, like renewable energy sources.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2022 · 2022-01

Keeping forces local for epithelial homeostasis. This project probes how epithelial cells use mechanical forces to communicate with one another in biological life. It tests the novel concept that negative feedback is a critical, hitherto unappreciated dimension in mechanical communication, which acts to ensure proportionate responses for homeostasis. It will generate fundamental new knowledge in biology using an innovative combination of cellular and biophysical experiments and physical theory. The expected outcomes are fundamental new knowledge, interdisciplinary training for young scientists, new national research capacity and growing international collaborations. It will benefit Australia by enhancing its scientific world linkage, status in scientific leadership and research capacity. Field of research: 0601 - Biochemistry and Cell Biology Epithelia are membranous tissues composed of layers of cells that cover the surfaces of the body and its organs. This project will analyse how cells in epithelia use mechanical forces to communicate with one another, to preserve a state of tissue stability (homeostasis), while also adjusting to conditions that are best for their survival. The project will generate fundamental new knowledge in biology using an innovative combination of cellular and biophysical experiments and physical theory. Australian researchers are international leaders in this field and the project will further advance this position. This cutting-edge and multi-disciplinary research will promote Australia’s national interest through: new tools that expand the research capability of the national science community; world-class training for Australia’s next generation of scientists that enhances STEM capacity; increasing our attractiveness as a world-class training destination for national and international students; and creating new directions for bio- and nano-technology in Australia.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2022 · 2022-01

Understanding the neural dynamics of integrated perceptual decisions. This project aims to characterise the brain processes involved in perceptual decision-making. While scientists have a good understanding of how people make decisions about the properties of individual sensory inputs, much less is known about how the brain integrates information across multiple sensory sources that differ in their salience and fidelity. The project expects to elucidate the neural mechanisms responsible for these integrative perceptual decisions, using a combination of brain imaging and behavioural measures, computational modelling and real-time neurofeedback. This should provide significant benefits for developing more effective approaches to training individuals in professions that rely on optimal decision-making skills. Field of research: 1701 - Psychology The capacity to make adaptive and reliable decisions is fundamental to virtually all human behaviour. The brain processes that control basic perceptual decisions, such as judging the trajectory of a ball in flight, are well understood. Much less is known about how people integrate multiple sources of sensory information to make the kinds of complex decisions commonly encountered in daily life, such as when it is safe to cross a busy road. This project will make an important contribution to scientists’ understanding of the brain processes responsible for complex perceptual decision-making. Many professionals rely on their perceptual decision-making skills, including baggage screeners, air-traffic controllers and military personnel. This project will yield economic and social benefits for Australia by providing the foundational knowledge needed to develop novel and potentially more effective training protocols for optimal decision-making in a range of professional contexts.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2022 · 2022-01

Solar Photovoltaics forecasting for efficient power management. This ARC LIEF aims to establish a Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) facility to support leading-edge Australian research in solar power generation management and atmospheric monitoring, bringing together three key topics of the century: renewable power generation, big data and climate change. Real-time monitoring, control and supply/demand forecast for solar power management require not only extensive sensor data from solar plant devices but also accurate and location specific cloud data, with accurate solar forecasts being absolutely critical to securely manage large-scale solar plants. The proposed LiDAR provides powerful, real-time information for short-term and long-term solar forecasting and investigating clear air dynamics. Field of research: 0906 - Electrical and Electronic Engineering Improved forecasts of solar power generation will assist in the greater uptake of renewable energy into the Australian electricity market grid, hence promoting ways to alleviate the effects of climate change by moving to a less polluting energy supply. This LIEF facility will improve national solar forecasting abilities by using a Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) facility to model aerosols, the motion of clouds and to explore how they affect solar radiation and hence enhance the operation of solar technologies. This will be further assisted by string level monitoring of a solar plant to gain insight into the effect of rapid cloud movement on the condition of individual Photovoltaic panels, where LiDAR data will be extremely useful in advanced research efforts.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2022 · 2022-01

An integrated analytical network for protein characterisation. This proposal aims to provide researchers with complementary tools for in-depth characterisation of proteins and proteomes, including their post-translational modifications. It aims to deliver unparalleled technology to south east Queensland for characterisation and research into proteomics, biomolecular complexes, glycans and glycobiology. The project aims to further strengthen the collaborative cluster of expertise in the region, and provide rapid and targeted response for future emerging research needs. This infrastructure will enhance the collaborative arrangements in protein biology, and provide significant benefits in both fundamental and applied aspects of research in this field. Field of research: 0601 - Biochemistry and Cell Biology The requested infrastructure will support and substantially strengthen existing strengths in south east Queensland in proteomics and systems biology. These research fields are critical for modern fundamental protein and biomolecular research, as well as in quality control in modern industrial agriculture and biotechnology. The application therefore provides substantial economic benefits to the Australian community. The combined expertise at The University of Queensland, Griffith University, Queensland University of Technology and University of the Sunshine Coast make south east Queensland an outstanding location for research and development into fundamental and applied protein and biomolecular biology. The instruments will extend capabilities in south east Queensland for quantitative proteomics and protein characterisation.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2022 · 2022-01

Microanalytical Facility Supporting Resources Development and Manufacturing. The project aims to establish a state-of-the-art electron probe microanalysis facility enabling accurate chemical analysis to be undertaken at the micro-scale. It is expected to provide new knowledge and support applied research on a range of natural, synthetic and processed materials that will deeply impact advancements in the fields of metals processing and recycling, Earth and environmental science, and the development of materials for a healthier society. It will support ARC funded and industry engaged research enhancing the minerals exploration, mining and metallurgical industries and inform sustainable practice. It will also provide the key research infrastructure to enhance Australia’s research leadership in these fields. Field of research: 0914 - Resources Engineering and Extractive Metallurgy The proposed research infrastructure will enable the non-destructive chemical analysis of minerals, metallurgical and manufactured samples, which are critical aspects of the Australian economy, providing vital information about how and where they formed and under what conditions. In turn, this will benefit minerals exploration, mining and metallurgical industries through identification of potential new mineral resources, enabling increased efficiency and productivity of these industries. The minerals and metals production sector accounted for over 30% of Australia’s export income in 2018, with their supply critical to new technology in sectors as diverse as energy storage and conversion, transportation, the e-economy, and health and medicine. In addition, the research will potentially impact in the design of better performing materials and devices for healthier and cleaner/efficient energy production. The outcomes of the project will support the communities reliant on the aforesaid industries.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2022 · 2022-01

Understanding diversity: chemical and kinematic tracers of galaxy evolution. Understanding how galaxies form and evolve throughout the Universe is one of the biggest outstanding challenges in astrophysics. The project aims to develop an innovative method for understanding the fundamental properties of angular momentum and chemical content of all kinds of galaxies. This project expects to generate new knowledge in the field of galaxy evolution, for the first time enabling astronomers to robustly compare distant, long-ago galaxies with those in the nearby, present-day Universe. Expected outcomes include a novel framework for determining galaxy morphology, based on fundamental physics. The framework will be highly beneficial to understanding the evolution of diverse types of galaxies, including our own Milky Way. Field of research: 0201 - Astronomical and Space Sciences This project will enhance Australia’s outstanding reputation and world-leading influence at the cutting edge of astronomical research, revealing how galaxies like our Milky Way come to be out of the distant progenitor galaxies which we observe to be vastly different in shape, rotational properties, and chemical composition. Australia’s significant investment in optical astronomical facilities including the Anglo-Australian Telescope and the European Southern Observatory will be leveraged to lead strong international collaborations. The project will dramatically improve our understanding of fundamental physical properties, underpinning future developments in engineering, aviation and climate knowledge. New discoveries will provide the social benefit of a deeper understanding of the Universe and our place within it. The project will inspire young people to work in STEM fields, and train new workforce in quantitative problem solving and data analysis, skills which are transferable to a plethora of industries including engineering, finance, medicine, manufacturing, resource management and space science.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2022 · 2022-01

Facilitating detection of new psychoactive substances in wastewater. This project aims to develop and apply novel analytical methods for detecting new psychoactive substances (NPS) in wastewater. NPS are a dynamic, complex addition to the illicit drug market, and a persistent analytical challenge for wastewater analysis. This project expects to fill the current knowledge gap in detection and identification of these substances in wastewater. This will provide substantial benefits both to Australia and internationally by aiding development of early warning drug monitoring systems, providing the rapid deployment of interventions to reduce drug-related harm in the local community, while facilitating law and government agencies to better direct resources. Field of research: 0399 - Other Chemical Sciences Illicit drug and new psychoactive substance (NPS) use contribute to a myriad of economic, social and environmental issues. Novel, Australia-first methods including the elucidation of specific markers of NPS combined with targeted national and international wastewater sampling regimes will make this project the most comprehensive study of these substances worldwide. End-users such as the Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission, South Australia Health and Forensics SA have already endorsed this approach and acknowledged the nature of the analytical results derived from this work, which will serve to offset a number of the acknowledged shortcomings inherent in traditional drug data sources including seizure information and user self-reporting. Close collaborations with these partners will ensure the data obtained from this project will be translated to reduce the economic and adverse social issues associated with the use of new psychoactive substances in Australia and internationally.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2022 · 2022-01

Bioinspired Photocatalysts for Solar-Driven Hydrogen Peroxide Production. This project aims to develop advanced photocatalysts that can efficiently produce hydrogen peroxide from just water, air, and sunlight. By mimicking the structure and function of the natural photosynthetic apparatus, the key innovations are expected in the design of reaction-oriented conjugated polymer-based photocatalysts at the atomic and molecular nanostructure levels. It expects to generate new knowledge in artificial photosynthesis and rational design of functional materials, and sustainable technology for hydrogen peroxide production. This cross-disciplinary research will benefit Australia by the development of biomimetic catalysts for advancing solar energy conversion and enabling sustainable manufacturing of commodity chemicals. Field of research: 0904 - Chemical Engineering Hydrogen peroxide is a valuable inorganic chemical applied in many industries, e.g. mining, paper and pulp, and wastewater treatment, which have significant contributions to the Australian economy; it also works as a disinfectant to prevent the spread of infectious disease among the people in the community. Nevertheless, its current industrial production process is not environmentally friendly. By mimicking the structure and function of the photosynthetic apparatus, this project aims to create a novel class of advanced catalysts that can efficiently produce hydrogen peroxide from just water, air, and sunlight. The project expects to generate new scientific basics for artificial photosynthesis and functional nanomaterials. The anticipated outcomes of this project will also generate sustainable technology for hydrogen peroxide production. It will stimulate the use of renewable solar energy for the manufacturing of commodity chemicals. This will consequently reduce the carbon footprint in chemical manufacturing, and lead to new knowledge of Australia’s comparative advantages on sustainable manufacturing.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2022 · 2022-01

Fuzzy logics for graded reasoning in applied contexts. Many things we care about, such as friendship or safety, come in degrees, but our current systems for tracking information are not built to handle this. This project aims to enhance many-valued logic as a tool to manage graded information. It expects to generate new knowledge in the area of logical languages for fuzzy databases and finite domains using an interdisciplinary approach between philosophers, mathematicians and computer scientists. Expected outcomes include new logical methods and modelling techniques for many-valued logics. This will provide significant benefits, such as the enhancement of fuzzy logic as a tool in artificial intelligence to handle reasoning with imprecise concepts, giving meaning to complex real-life data. Field of research: 2203 - Philosophy Fuzzy logic is a highly useful modelling tool listed as one of Australia’s future technologies in the government’s Australian Infrastructure Audit 2019. It can be used in diverse applications, from unmanned helicopters to household appliances. This project will produce distinctive theoretical expertise in Australia in an emergent area of mathematical fuzzy logic, studying, for instance, databases describing the degree of favourability that certain groups assign to ideas or products. This will be useful for Australian government bodies interested in advertising a given policy or infrastructure project to a receptive target market. The project will also facilitate future developments in artificial intelligence applications which analyse human languages, for example, in sentiment analysis or question answering. Moreover, through high quality publications, conference presentations, and the organisation of two international workshops, this project will increase Australia’s ability to attract top students and researchers to continue Australian excellence in fuzzy logic and artificial intelligence.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2022 · 2022-01

Applying ecologically valid approaches to social cognitive ageing. Social functioning is a critical predictor of wellbeing, particularly in older age. This project aims to investigate how important social cognitive capacities, that lay the foundation for effective social functioning, are impacted by normal adult ageing. This project will use cutting edge experimental techniques to investigate, for the first time, how ageing alters our capacity to visually attend and understand emotional information in others during real time social interactions, both in and out of the laboratory. Expected outcomes include new knowledge of how older adults navigate social interactions, with potential to lay a foundation for improving social wellbeing in older Australians. Field of research: 1701 - Psychology We are currently faced with an ageing population, with older adults projected to make up a higher proportion of the Australian population than children by the year 2066. These fundamental changes to our ageing demographic now makes it critical to understand the factors that promote successful ageing, not only for humanitarian, but also for financial reasons. At all stages of the lifespan, loneliness and social isolation are key predictors of poorer wellbeing and these relationships appear to be strongest in late adulthood. This project will provide novel insights into a potentially modifiable risk factor for social isolation and loneliness by conducting the most complete and nuanced understanding of how core social cognitive skills – that are known to be linked to loneliness and social isolation – are affected by normal adult ageing. In doing so, this project will lay the foundation for improving social wellbeing in older Australians, with long-term social and economic benefits in our ageing population.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2022 · 2022-01

Engineering Tissue Organisation Using Intelligent Additive Biomanufacturing. This project aims to organize and shape the formation of lab-grown tissue by 3D printing structures which control the behaviour of cells. This cell behaviour control will be accomplished through an interdisciplinary and multiscale pipeline of additive micromanufacturing, bioreactor engineering, cell culture, single-cell imaging, and computational modelling. In contrast with current empirical approaches, this quantitative and predictive understanding of how to control biological processes within 3D printed environments will design and engineer more robust, customisable, scalable, and economical cell culture platforms able to optimally manufacture bespoke and complex 3D tissues for future agricultural, pharmaceutical, or medical products. Field of research: 0903 - Biomedical Engineering Australia’s world-leading bioeconomy depends on cell culture processes for industries such as beer fermentation, vaccine production, and other biologics. However, industrial cell cultures remain inefficient and are becoming replaced by high-density tissue culture bioreactors. This project combines Australian biomanufacturing interests with new additive fabrication technologies to understand how the formation of lab-grown tissue can be better controlled and optimised within 3D printed bioreactor environments. The project produces substantial economic, commercial, and agricultural benefits by developing more robust, customisable, efficient, and scalable tissue culture manufacturing processes for current Australian bioindustries while also targeting next-generation tissue products such as lab-grown animal meat, agricultural produce, or more realistic drug testing platforms. This project’s fundamental understanding of biological process control will extend Australia’s research priorities in advanced manufacturing and has future industry applications to medical technologies, pharmaceuticals, and the bioeconomy.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2022 · 2022-01

Elucidating ATPase function during NLRP3 inflammasome assembly. Humans and animals are constantly exposed to microbes, which inhabit their external environment as well as body surfaces such as the skin and gut. We are, however, able to co-exist with these microbes, because our immune system protects us from these everyday encounters. This proposal will reveal how an important immune protein called NLRP3 senses microbes and other physiological processes. When NLRP3 senses such factors and is activated, it induces the release of messenger substances to alert other immune cells. This research will deliver fundamental knowledge of how animals normally co-exist with microbes. Field of research: 1107 - Immunology Humans and animals are constantly exposed to all kinds of microbes, which inhabit their external environment as well as body surfaces such as the skin and gut. We are, however, able to co-exist with these microbes, because our immune system constantly samples the environment and protects us from these everyday encounters. This proposal will reveal how an important immune process senses and responds to microbes. By delivering fundamental knowledge of how animals normally co-exist with microbes, this project will deliver new immunological paradigms. Expected outcomes and benefits of this proposal include high-impact publications, international collaboration, world-class training for young scientists and new knowledge for future commercialisation.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2022 · 2022-01

Charitable triad: How donors, beneficiaries, & fundraisers influence giving. This project aims to test a new model of charitable giving to examine how donors, beneficiaries, and fundraisers together influence donor decisions. Until now, no holistic model has existed to explain donor behaviour: past research has focused on donors but neglected beneficiaries and fundraisers. This project is expected to provide evidence for a new bedrock theory of philanthropy. Findings can also inform practitioner toolkits, offering advice to nonprofits on how to raise money effectively by understanding how the particular organisation and its beneficiaries can influence donor decisions. By helping ensure the survival of charities, this research will contribute to the delivery of essential social services that benefit many Australians. Field of research: 1701 - Psychology Most of Australia’s 57,000 charities depend on public donations to fund their important work. During this COVID-induced economic crisis it is especially important that charities fundraise effectively. This project will provide empirical evidence showing how relationships between donors, beneficiaries, and fundraisers can influence charitable outcomes. Results can be used by nonprofits to target campaigns to appropriate donors, frame campaigns in effective ways, select motivating beneficiaries to highlight in campaigns, and ultimately maximise campaign return-on-investment. By helping to ensure the survival of Australian nonprofits, this research will contribute to the delivery of essential social services that benefit many Australians, including services like homeless shelters, cancer research, environmental protection, and child welfare programs. In addition, by ensuring fundraising appeals are targeted appropriately, this research can reduce donor fatigue by ensuring that Australians get approached by fewer charities overall but more causes that are personally relevant to them.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2022 · 2022-01

Brideprice, Conflict, and Violence Against Women in Asia. This study aims to investigate where, how and why brideprice facilitates armed conflict and violence against women. Emerging evidence shows paying high brideprice incentivises men to join armed groups, and global modelling correlates brideprice and armed conflict. However, despite the exorbitant sums exchanged as brideprice in many societies, the socio-economic mechanisms connecting brideprice and conflict are not well understood. Expected project outcomes are (1) data on volumes and prevalence of brideprice (2) understanding links to armed conflict and violence against women in Southeast Asia. This project’s findings will support more effective Australian gender equality and peacebuilding programs that take account of brideprice. Field of research: 1606 - Political Science The proposed project will help the Australian government improve our aid effectiveness in the Asia Pacific by addressing the urgent problem of brideprice’s negative effects on conflict and violence against women. It aims to develop a systematic understanding of the role brideprice plays in increasing socio-economic inequality and links to conflict and violence against women. Reports from women’s organisations and the Australian government recognise brideprice as a factor facilitating violence against women in the Pacific and urge further research. In the current pandemic, understanding brideprice and its relationship to conflict, violence against women (including human trafficking) will improve aid responsiveness impacts of COVID-19 in the Asia-Pacific. The project will help ensure Australian public money spent on peace and gender equality in the Asia Pacific, such as through the Pacific Step-up program, can be effective. Better protections of human rights and stability in the region benefits Australian peace and security.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2022 · 2022-01

Polymeric materials of tailor-made macrocycles for selective anion capture. This project aims to develop an innovative class of adsorbent materials comprised of macrocycles (large cyclic molecules) tailored to specifically bind toxic anions in water. The project expects to address the key issue of poor selectivity in existing adsorbent materials and generate knowledge in materials chemistry by producing ring-shape anion binding molecules, advancing low-cost synthesis of materials, and providing fundamental insights into anion binding in polymeric materials. Expected outcomes include sensors and adsorbents targeting toxic anions for water quality monitoring and purification. This should provide significant benefits, such as improving water quality and tackling environmental challenges globally and in Australia. Field of research: 0303 - Macromolecular and Materials Chemistry The project is expected to generate a new class of solid-state “sponges” that capture a targeted anion from a mixture of ions in water with unprecedented selectivity, to address the need for more robust water quality monitoring and water purification techniques globally and in Australia. Examples of expected outcomes are adsorbents that remove carcinogenic contaminants (e.g. bromate) from drinking water, optical sensors that monitor bicarbonate concentrations in seawater, and materials that assist nuclear waste treatment. Building upon the unique strategies of embedding cyclic units to enhance the performance and reduce the cost of anion adsorbing materials to meet the demands of industrial applications, the project aligns with the national research priority to manage Australia’s soil and water, by providing new solutions to monitor and remediate damages to fresh water and marine systems. The originality of the developed synthetic anion binding systems that mimic protein function, as well as new knowledge generated will strengthen Australia’s international standings in chemistry and materials science.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2022 · 2022-01

Understanding how neural oscillatory phase affects perception and attention. The project examines rhythmic 'waves' in human brain activity, with the aims of determining the mechanisms behind their involvement in attention and visual perception, and of differentiating the types of rhythmic activity involved in different aspects of attention. The project will generate new knowledge, and benefit cognitive neuroscience in Australia, by characterising the fundamental rhythmic nature of visual perception. In addition to resolving existing scientific controversies, the outcomes of this project include the creation of a large, public repository of behavioural and neural data, and the generation of new knowledge to guide development of cognitive enhancement strategies for attentionally demanding, real-world scenarios. Field of research: 1701 - Psychology This project will benefit cognitive neuroscience in Australia by identifying some of the key brain processes involved in regulating visual perception and its modulation by attention. The project’s combination of electroencephalography, computational modelling, and non-invasive brain stimulation will contribute to making Australia a world leader in this burgeoning area of research. The findings will illuminate the neural mechanisms underlying conscious perception of the visual environment, and could help inform the design of devices to track and enhance human perceptual performance in attention-demanding scenarios (e.g., radar operators, baggage screeners). Knowledge gained through the project will benefit the rapidly developing area of human-autonomous vehicle interaction, which requires precise estimates of human attention to guide the behaviour of vehicles such as self-driving cars. Beyond the scope of the project, the findings from this research also have the potential to impact future efforts to understand abnormal attention regulation in various neurological conditions.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2022 · 2022-01

Assessing the risks of extracting metals for the global energy transition. This project aims to produce the first of its kind online atlas that systematically documents the social, environmental and economic impacts in mining locations around the world. Analysing impacts at the source of metal supply chains is crucial to comprehend the implications of transitioning to metal-intensive low-carbon energy technologies. The project would deliver insights on available pathways to achieve a ‘just’ energy transition, meaning a transition that successfully tackles climate change without placing unacceptable burden on mining communities and environments. The goal of the research is to generate evidence-based recommendations so that future metal supply can be both reliable and responsible. Field of research: 0502 - Environmental Science and Management Australia is committed to accelerating the deployment of low-emission energy technologies. These technologies have high metal requirements, and the Australian mining sector will play an essential role in supplying the metals needed for the energy transition, in Australia and worldwide. This research project is concerned with the risks that will be embedded in this supply, and particularly, how certain risk dynamics may both impact mining communities and constrain metal supply, which would in turn affect the global energy transition. The project will collect data across a selected sample of 1,000 mine sites, producing a global inventory that will be analysed in order to determine the direction and scale of these risks. Expected benefits from the research include the identification of climate change mitigation pathways that ensure the protection of mining communities’ well-being and the environment. The research will also have considerable economic benefits by addressing the root causes of mining production constraints. Results from this project will inform the development of legislative responses nationally.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2022 · 2022-01

First-principles design of atomic defects for quantum technologies. This project aims to address the issue of designing and engineering better single-photon sources based on atomic defects in solids, a crucial building block for many quantum technologies. Using advanced first-principles quantum mechanical theories and calculations, the project expects to produce fundamental knowledge of key mechanisms and properties, and to use this to inform the design of new atomic defects for tailored applications as quantum emitters. The expected outcomes, including novel methodologies, will contribute to different research areas, from condensed matter and materials physics to quantum science and technology. This project should provide significant benefits in accelerating quantum technology innovation in Australia. Field of research: 0204 - Condensed Matter Physics This project seeks to create new knowledge in the prominent field of theoretical condensed matter and materials science, with the potential of making an impact on the new wave of quantum technology applications. In particular, the project’s goal is to drive the design of atomic defects systems that are ideal platforms for realising many quantum technologies, such as secure communications systems and precision sensors and metrology devices. The theoretical and computational tools produced in this project will support Australia’s emerging quantum technology industry, which is projected to become a billion-dollar industry over the next two decades, not only creating new jobs but also contributing to the transformation of society. Moreover, this research project will also drive capacity building by training students and young researchers, which is instrumental to forming a high quality workforce. The project is further expected to strengthen Australia’s links with overseas institutions through a network of collaborations across three different countries.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2022 · 2022-01

Designing low-toxicity and stable perovskites for solar energy conversion. Efficient solar energy conversion systems can significantly promote sustainable and low carbon-emission economy. This project aims to rationally design low-toxic and stable metal halide perovskites for efficient solar hydrogen conversion. The key concept is to design stable lead-free metal halide perovskite semiconductors with superior photophysical properties for solar-driven valuable chemical production. Expected outcomes include new generation advanced materials and proof-of-concept technologies for efficient solar hydrogen generation. The successful completion of this project will benefit Australia by positioning the nation at the frontier of advanced functional materials and renewable energy supply technologies. Field of research: 0912 - Materials Engineering Solar energy provides a viable solution to address Australia`s energy security and environmental concerns. Low-toxicity and stable semiconductors with excellent optoelectronic properties are the core component of an efficient solar energy conversion system. This project will take up this challenge by designing new metal halide perovskite semiconductors with low-toxicity and high stability for solar hydrogen generation, which is well-aligned with two of the Science and Research Priorities of Australian Government: Advanced Manufacturing and Energy by addressing 1) Specialised, high value-add areas such as high-performance materials, composites, alloys and polymers and 2) New clean energy sources and storage technologies that are efficient, cost-effective and reliable. The success of this project will promote the important advancement of technology that will lead to a significant economic and environmental benefit to Australia. The expected impacts are advancing Australia's academic knowledge and the enhancement of R&D capability in both next-generation functional materials and clean energy conversion sectors.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2022 · 2022-01

Revealing bat antibody recognition mechanism against bat-borne viruses. Bats act as asymptomic reservoir hosts for numerous zoonotic viruses that are lethal in humans, indicating that the bat immune system can control these viruses. However, little is known about bat immunity including how bat antibodies recognise bat-borne viruses. This project aims to study bat anti-viral antibodies by utilising innovative protein engineering, cutting-edge cryo-EM technology and single-cell isolation and sequencing. The project seeks to uncover bat-borne zoonotic virus glycoprotein architecture and reveal how bat antibodies function to inhibit viral infection. Expected outcomes will be new insight and tools to combat emerging and yet to emerge pathogens, enabling pandemic preparedness and increasing global biosecurity. Field of research: 0605 - Microbiology Cross-species transmission of pathogens is a major threat to both human and animal health worldwide. Bats are known to act as reservoirs for many zoonotic viruses without having significant diseases. However, the mechanisms that govern bat immunity and viral tolerance are currently poorly understood. The project aims to decipher the role of bat humoral immunity to these zoonotic viruses. The project will utilise an established innovative approach and cutting-edge technologies, including single-cell sequencing and advanced cryo electron microscope to provide the first functional and structural characterisation of bat antiviral immune responses. Outcomes should include publications in top tier journals, strengthening of emerging local and international research collaborations, and enhance multidisciplinary research. Potential impacts beyond the benefit of gain in fundamental knowledge are raising public's awareness of bats and ecosystem through media engagement.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2022 · 2022-01

Testing Effects of Environmental Exposures on Subsequent Human Generations. This project aims to develop new statistical models to determine how environmental exposures in pregnancy, such as smoking, alcohol consumption and diet, can impact the first and second generations of children. The project will fill a void in unbiased tools to disentangle genetic and environmental components in the inheritance of complex traits, and will be the first to determine objectively if and how effects from environmental exposures can be inherited. Through international collaborations and advanced interdisciplinary approaches, this project will generate new knowledge in the emerging field of multigenerational inheritance to drive the future design of interventions and influence positive behaviours during pregnancy. Field of research: 0104 - Statistics This project aims to develop advanced statistical models for use in Australia to investigate how birthweight is affected by environmental exposures of the grandparental generation using genetics. The project will investigate lifestyle factors such as grandparental smoking, alcohol consumption and diet on grandchildren’s birthweight. This cutting edge, highly innovative project will give Australia an opportunity to utilise Norwegian genotyped cohorts with extensive birth registry information. The modelling technology developed in this project has the potential to be applied to a wide range of genetic analyses at the population level in Australia, including monitoring intergenerational effects on normal genetic traits as well as disease, although the latter is outside the scope of this study. These applications will have economic and social benefits for Australia by providing extremely valuable tools for monitoring populations and enabling long-term planning and policymaking, taking into account lifestyle factors of previous, current and future generations.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2022 · 2022-01

A unique and overlooked microbial process scavenging two greenhouse gases. This project aims to perform the first-ever systematic investigation of a novel microbial process, in which two potent gases (methane and nitric oxide) responsible for the climate change are metabolized simultaneously. This process is suggested to be universal in early and modern Earth's aquatic systems, which is a potential but overlooked microbial sink for methane and nitric oxide. By identifying the responsible organisms and their metabolic pathway, this project represents a critical step towards a full understanding of their roles in affecting the greenhouse gas emission. This understanding will also enable us to more reliably predict the global climate change, which is one of the most significant challenges in the 21st Century. Field of research: 0605 - Microbiology This project contributes to Australia’s national interest through its significant environmental benefits to Australia, directly aligning with the National Science and Research Priority: ‘Environmental Change (the carbon cycling)’. Climate change is one of the most serious challenges of the 21st century, especially for countries like Australia with its long coastal lines. Identifying and understanding the mechanisms of a unique microbial process for removing potent greenhouse gases (e.g. methane and nitric oxide) in this project will enable us to predict global climate change more accurately, and facilitate a strong foundation for the development of new biotechnologies to mitigate their emissions. This project will benefit Australian water industries seeking to reduce their carbon footprints, and will enhance the international competitiveness of Australian research through national and international collaborations.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2022 · 2022-01

Rethinking traffic modelling for next generation city-scale networks. This project aims to develop an efficient traffic simulation model that enables data-informed traffic monitoring and automated model development, streamlining the fundamental transformation that next-generation cities will undergo in the coming decades. The project expects to generate new knowledge in traffic modelling by developing an innovative approach to inferring traffic conditions and traveller behaviour from diverse data feeds, and automating model calibration through an optimisation formulation. Expected outcomes address the eventual transition to smart cities and connected and autonomous vehicle technologies, providing significant social, economic and environmental benefits through optimal planning and effective operation schemes. Field of research: 1507 - Transportation and Freight Services This project will provide a major scientific breakthrough in the modelling of city-scale traffic networks; it will develop an integrated theoretical framework consolidating efficient traffic modelling, data-informed traffic monitoring and automated model development, which collectively provide a comprehensive and systematic modelling platform. This research has a significant impact on how the next-generation traffic networks will be designed and operated to exploit the full potential of smart cities initiatives and connected and autonomous vehicle (CAV) technologies. Findings from this forward-thinking project will enable state and federal transport agencies to plan for optimal integration of CAVs in the transport systems and identify effective transport management strategies maximising the efficiency of existing infrastructure, thereby helping Australian cities achieve sustainability and efficiency goals. The project outcomes will significantly contribute to smart cities initiatives, resulting in mobility benefits by reducing congestion, and environmental benefits by reducing greenhouse gas emissions.