THE UNIVERSITY OF QUEENSLAND

GrantConnect (Australian Government grants) · FY 2026 · 2026-01

Harnessing Nanotechnology to Develop Next-Generation mRNA Oral Vaccines Category: Medical Research

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2026 · 2026-01

Queensland Advanced Non-Linear Tissue-biomaterials Imaging Capacity. The Queensland Advanced Non-Linear Tissue-biomaterials Imaging Capacity (QUANTIC) is a cutting-edge imaging platform that will transform our understanding of living tissues. By integrating near-infrared multiphoton, multiharmonic confocal and 4D lightfield imaging, it will provide unprecedented insights into how cells interact with each other and engineered biomaterials in 3D. Expected outcomes include high-impact publications, training opportunities and fundamental discoveries that will drive innovation in cell biology, bioengineering and quantum imaging. QUANTIC will catalyse development of next-generation materials, sustainable manufacturing and novel biological systems with broad applications in biotechnology, defence and energy. Field of research: 4003 - Biomedical Engineering Imaging deep within living tissues is crucial for revealing how cells interact with their natural extracellular matrix and engineered biomaterials. This insight into cell behaviour and tissue remodelling is vital for advancing our understanding of cellular processes and guiding the design of more effective, biocompatible materials. QUANTIC is an advanced imaging facility that will allow us to view living tissues and biomaterials in unprecedented detail. It is the first platform in Australia to combine near-infrared multiphoton, multiharmonic confocal, and 4D lightfield imaging with quantum imaging technologies that can penetrate highly scattering tissues, such as dense bone or complex biomaterial structures. This innovative platform fills a critical research gap by capturing detailed, three-dimensional images of cells interacting with one another and with engineered materials deep within tissues. The benefits for Australia are extensive. By deepening our understanding of how cells behave and tissues remodel, QUANTIC will drive breakthroughs in bioengineering, nanotechnology, and sustainable manufacturing—key areas within a biotechnology sector worth $230B to the Australian economy. This cutting-edge technology will position Australia at the forefront of deep tissue and biomaterial imaging, and the advancements in engineering novel biological systems, quantum imaging and material design will lead to significant social, economic, and environmental benefits for all Australians.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2026 · 2026-01

Sensitive Desorption Electrospray Ionisation Mass spectrometry facility. To understand the impact of chemicals and biomolecules on humans and the environment, we need to understand how they are transported and distributed within the samples. This project aims to establish a state-of-the-art Desorption Electrospray (DESI) enabled triple quadrupole (QqQ) mass spectrometer to reveal where these molecules exist in the samples at very high sensitivity. The facility will break barriers currently limiting discovery of chemical movement for a variety of chemical, biological and environmental samples. This new capability will support our world leading research on exposure sciences, new materials and delivery of chemicals and biomolecules based on our expanded scientific knowledge of molecular scale chemical transport. Field of research: 4104 - Environmental Management Australia is leading the world in research on emerging environmental pollutants, particularly PFAS and its remediation, new materials and pharmaceutical technology. Maintaining this leading position requires continuous rigorous assessment of the chemical abundance in a wide range of samples to reveal the distribution and chemical movement in samples. Acquisition of a state-of-the-art Desorption Electrospray (DESI) enabled triple quadrupole (QqQ) mass spectrometer with high throughput automated spot/imaging analysis and hand-held probe will provide new capabilities for comprehensive mapping of organic chemicals distribution within a variety of complex samples. The proposed DESI QqQ, first of its kind in Australia, has outstanding sensitivity for targeted mass spectrometry imaging analyses. DESI analyses, bulk extracts and flexible sample imaging capability will advance exposure and environmental sciences as it will play an important role research into fate of pollutants in different matrices including samples in its original forms with minimal treatment required. The instrument will have utility in a very diverse collection of research areas including the life sciences, which often requires knowledge about the spatial distribution of important biomolecules. The instrument will be installed and operated at the University of Queensland, serving research intensive Universities in Southeast Queensland but also provide access nationally to academic and industry researchers.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2026 · 2026-01

A next-generation computational framework for evolving sewer networks. This project aims to drive a paradigm shift in sewer management, enabling water utilities to simultaneously manage Australia’s ageing sewer infrastructure and embracing emerging applications for the next-generation smart, sustainable sewer systems. By learning from the intrinsic features of sewer environments, this project expects to transform the understandings and interpretations of modern-day sewer networks. Anticipated outcomes include new knowledge and smart water technologies for sewer network modelling and prediction. This should advance Australia’s smart water monitoring and control, enhance wastewater infrastructure resilience, decrease sewage overflows and greenhouse gas emissions, and safeguard public health. Field of research: 4005 - Civil Engineering Today’s Australian sewer network is the result of over 100 years of accumulated effort. However, much of this infrastructure is now approaching the end of its lifespan, while sewers are increasingly taking on new roles beyond wastewater conveyance, to now actively support public health and climate goals. This project directly addresses the urgent need faced by the Australian water industry for smarter sewer operations. The project involves developing efficient computational tools to maintain sewer integrity and wastewater conveyance, preventing overflows, and reducing odour complaints, while minimising pollution and pathogen discharge. These outcomes will ensure safer living, working, and recreational environments. Long-term benefits include improved public health protection and reduced carbon emissions through smarter wastewater management. An open software platform integrating these innovative technologies will facilitate widespread adoption by water utilities and stakeholders, allowing continuous improvement, collaboration, and public engagement. The project’s outcomes are expected to be translated into full-scale real-world applications through collaborations with numerous Australian water utilities and government agencies. Additionally, aligned with the National Science and Research Priorities of Environmental Change, this project will position Australia as a leader in smart and sustainable water management, supporting the nation’s commitments to Net Zero.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2026 · 2026-01

Transforming Australian Hypersonics with Upgraded Optical Diagnostics. This project aims to transform the research performed in Australia’s world-class hypersonic facilities by procuring state-of-the-art optical diagnostics such as high-speed laser absorption spectroscopy systems and ultra-high-speed cameras. This will enable hypersonic flows to be studied with precision, resolution, and accuracy never before possible in Australia, yielding new and definitive data about underlying flow processes. Expected outcomes include improved designs for hypersonic vehicles such as rockets, re-entry capsules and vehicles powered by scramjet engines. This will amplify Australia’s global leadership in hypersonics research and provide upgraded infrastructure to assist Australian organisations developing hypersonic vehicles. Field of research: 4001 - Aerospace Engineering This project aims to transform Australian hypersonic research by introducing advanced high-speed optical diagnostic techniques in the country's major hypersonic test facilities. It addresses a critical research gap: Australia’s current inability to directly measure chemistry in hypersonic flows, which must instead be inferred from other measurements. By implementing these techniques, this project will allow hypersonic flows to be studied with a precision not before possible in Australia, yielding definitive data about underlying flow processes. These upgraded capabilities will have significant economic and commercial benefits. They will enhance the modelling used to design hypersonic vehicles, provide state-of-the-art facilities in Australia for testing advanced hypersonic concepts, and develop a skilled hypersonics workforce. This will directly support Australian organisations such as the Defence Science and Technology Group, Hypersonix Launch Systems, and Gilmour Space Technologies, which are developing Aus-tralian hypersonic systems and will need modelling tools and test facilities to support this, The project will contribute to the growth of Australia's emerging sovereign rocket and hypersonics industries, which currently employ hundreds of Australians and are expected to create thousands of skilled jobs as these industries mature. As we work closely with industry partners, there is a clear pathway from academic research to broader adoption of project outcomes.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2026 · 2026-01

Generating the evidence and resources to support a successful retirement. Transitioning into retirement can be an exciting time in people’s lives. However, for some, closing the door on working life can be challenging, bringing financial stress, social isolation, or the loss of identity and purpose. This project aims to examine a broader, interconnected portfolio of resources – physical, financial, social, emotional, cognitive, and motivational – that retirees need to adjust and thrive. The project will generate new knowledge on client-centric metrics that measure the resources required to retire successfully. The outcomes of this project include a refined retirement planning tool, real-world cases studies and a sector roadmap to support Australians as they prepare for and transition into retirement. Field of research: 5201 - Applied and Developmental Psychology This project will have significant social, economic and wellbeing benefits for individuals and the Australian community. Despite evidence linking retirement planning to positive psychological and financial outcomes, there are still 1 million people without a plan. Of those that do plan, many people leave the workforce too early, have insufficient funds or exit unexpectedly due to ill-health. The evidence points to the need for more holistic models of retirement planning – to take into account finance as well as physical, social, emotional, cognitive, and motivational considerations. Further, the federal Government has highlighted the importance of providing more support to navigate retirement, underscoring the need for comprehensive strategies that address the diverse needs of retirees. Our project will develop a suite of resources that supports a holistic approach to retirement planning – a refined retirement preparedness assessment tool, real-world case studies to support action, and a sector roadmap to drive broader uplift. Dissemination strategies will go beyond traditional academic channels, to include community engagement through the Council of the Ageing (COTA) and the Australian Association of Gerontology and industry engagement through presentation at the Financial Advice Association Australia Congress and Australian Superannuation Funds of Australia conferences.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2026 · 2026-01

Lifestyle, Decision-Making & Behaviour: Econometric analysis & experiments. This project investigates how lifestyle and environmental factors—such as sleep, diet, exercise, and temperature—affect cognitive performance and decision-making. Using biometric data from WHOOP's wearable fitness devices and millions of chess decisions from Chess.com, it will generate new causal evidence on optimising mental performance. The project applies machine-learning econometrics with large-scale experiments to identify strategies that improve decision-making. Expected outcomes include new insights into cognitive resilience and personalised interventions for peak mental performance. This should provide significant benefits such as policy recommendations for optimising workplace productivity and performance in high-stake professions. Field of research: 3801 - Applied Economics Cognitive performance is crucial to productivity, learning, and decision-making, particularly in high-stakes fields like healthcare, finance, and defence. Yet, 40% of Australians experience inadequate sleep, which—along with diet, exercise, and environmental stressors—can impair our ability to make fast, effective decisions. This project integrates biometric data from a leading wearable fitness company with millions of high-stakes decisions from online chess to generate the first large-scale causal evidence on how lifestyle and environmental factors shape real-world cognition and behaviour, delivering strategies to optimise mental performance. The findings have broad implications for Australia’s workforce, education system, and health policies. Understanding the link between sleep, lifestyle, and decision-making could enhance workplace productivity, reduce fatigue-related errors in critical professions, and inform public health initiatives targeting cognitive well-being. Additionally, the research will explore the impact of climate-related stressors, such as heatwaves, on cognitive performance—an increasingly urgent issue for Australia. To maximise impact, findings will be shared through policy reports and engaging the Australian public. Partnerships with WHOOP and Chess.com will help integrate insights into platforms' user recommendations, ensuring individuals, businesses, and policymakers can apply the results to enhance decision-making and performance in everyday life.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2026 · 2026-01

Mapping the topology of polymer folding: knots, geometry and data. Understanding the reason for and mechanism of knot formation in proteins remains an open problem, with significant implications in synthetic biology. This project aims to address this problem using an interdisciplinary approach grounded in computational topology. The project will focus on two innovative angles: determine how geometric constraints influence the type of knots forming and how they might form, and search for knot-promoting patterns in protein sequences. Expected outcomes include bringing new insights in this pressing biological problem, while greatly expanding the field of computational topology. It will bring substantial breakthroughs in core areas, with new results in knot theory, topological data analysis and geometry. Field of research: 4904 - Pure Mathematics This project aims at understanding how and why knotted proteins fold. The proposed approach is founded in topology, an area of mathematics studying properties of spaces unaffected by continuous deformations. Understanding the role of knots in proteins is crucial for advancing our knowledge in molecular biology and biophysics. While grounded in mathematics, this research has significant implications for biotechnologies and public health, as it can lead to breakthroughs in diagnosing and treating protein folding diseases. Expected outcomes also include expanding the understanding of topological methods in theory and applications. Pushing the frontiers of new mathematics is a key step in enhancing Australia's central role in cutting-edge international research. This is especially true for this project, given the significance of the expected applications. This project will also train young emerging Australians in mathematics, who will be then ready to contribute to Australia's specialised workforce, benefitting Australia socially and economically. By integrating modern mathematics with biological research, this project positions Australia at the forefront of interdisciplinary scientific innovation, fostering collaborations and driving advancements in both mathematics and life sciences. Given the broad scientific interests and the applications of this project, wider exposure of the results will be achieved through outreach articles for magazines and via social media.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2026 · 2026-01

Quantum thermodynamics with many-body systems. One of the fundamental truths of the universe is that all devices must obey the laws of thermodynamics. A significant challenge is to understand how these laws emerge from microscopic quantum theory, and how quantum features like coherence and entanglement can modify the laws and improve quantum machines at the nanoscale. This proposal aims to develop the underpinning theory for practical methods to generate and use many-body quantum coherence in thermodynamic processes, using the highly configurable platform of ultracold quantum gases. The outcomes will provide a better understanding of the laws of quantum thermodynamics, leading to improved design principles for nanoscale quantum devices. Field of research: 5108 - Quantum Physics Quantum thermodynamics aims to understand how quantum mechanics impacts thermodynamics at the nanoscale. It has discovered that the quantum features of coherence and entanglement can theoretically be used to surpass the performance of machines based on classical physics. The research gap this project aims to address is the development of practical methods to realise these enhancements in quantum machines made from ultracold quantum gases, atoms cooled to billionths of a degree above absolute zero. In the future the knowledge generated by this project could economically benefit Australia by enhancing the power output of quantum batteries, or improving the accuracy of atom interferometers. Ultracold quantum gases are highly sensitive to inertial forces and are used for precision measurements of accelerations and rotations. They are currently commercially utilised for precision mapping of the Earth's gravitational field, aiding in mineral exploration, and are being developed for many other quantum sensing applications. We will promote our research outcomes beyond academia by engaging with the research translation program of Quantum Australia. The investigators have prior experience with quantum research translation, including the development of a quantum weighbridge for noncontact mass measurement. We will inform companies building sensors and machines based on quantum gases in Australia about our results, including Q-CRTL, Nomad Atomics, Infleqtion, and Atomionics.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2026 · 2026-01

Novel Approaches to Grain Refinement of Ferrous Alloys. This project aims to address the longstanding strength vs toughness trade-off in ferrous alloys, by developing new grain refinement techniques based on advanced grain refinement theories and models. The research seeks to resolve century-old industry challenges through novel experimental approaches informed by the latest fundamental findings. Expected outcomes enable to toughen white cast irons, giving longer service life; improve strength and ductility of weather-resistant steels. This should provide significant benefits to the partner organizations, by increasing product quality, profitability and market competitiveness. Furthermore, applying the outcomes to other ferrous alloys expand the impact on iron and steel manufacturing industries. Field of research: 4016 - Materials Engineering Australia is a global leader in mining and mineral processing, producing world-class facilities and equipment. White cast irons serve as the workhorse materials in this industry due to their exceptional wear and corrosion resistance. However, these alloys also suffer from high brittleness, making them prone to sudden fractures and component failures. Such failures can halt entire mining/mineral production lines, leading to significant losses from both downtime and part replacement. The brittleness of white cast irons stems from their high fraction of chromium carbides, which, while essential for wear resistance. This has been a long-standing challenge. This project aims to address the issue by developing novel and more effective grain refinement techniques, leveraging advanced theories and models recently established in cast metals. The proposed techniques will refine the microstructure of white cast irons, enhancing their toughness, as finer microstructures contain more boundaries that slow crack propagation. Such outcomes can be used directly to produce real mining facilities. Toughened white cast irons enable the manufacturing of more reliable and longer-lasting mining and mineral processing equipment. This can consequently enhance mining safety, reliability, and efficiency. Given that mining is a cornerstone of Australia’s economy, advancements in high-quality mining equipment will offer significant national benefits.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2026 · 2026-01

Social identity as a catalyst to boost demand for pre-loved clothes. This project aims to increase demand for pre-loved clothes sold in charity-operated second-hand shops to reduce textile waste and help fund critical social services, such as the free 24/7 Lifeline suicide support hotline. It will pioneer social identity theory-based behaviour change interventions and test their effectiveness in a Queensland-wide field study with 120 Lifeline shops. Outcomes include new insights about the role of social identity in clothes shopping and practical measures proven to increase demand for pre-loved clothes. Increased demand will help the charity-operated second-hand retail sector secure more funding for social services and contribute to Australia achieving its waste and carbon emission reduction targets. Field of research: 5205 - Social and Personality Psychology Australia faces serious challenges in the environmental and social space. Two key environmental challenges for Australia are to reduce waste and carbon emissions. The fashion industry is part of the problem. Globally it generates 10% of all carbon emissions and creates substantial amounts of solid waste, with 87% of disposed clothes going to landfill. Shifting demand to pre-loved clothes can reduce waste and emissions. A major social challenge is that over 65,000 Australians attempt suicide every year, with more than 3,000 deaths. Free suicide support services accessible to everyone living in Australia, such as the Lifeline 24/7 hotline, rely on funding from the sale of pre-loved clothing. But demand for pre-loved clothes is increasing at a slower rate than for new clothes. Meanwhile, Lifeline receives more calls than ever from people in distress as Australians deal with post-COVID-19 challenges and a cost-of-living crisis. This project aims to pioneer a new theoretical approach to developing the most effective behaviour change interventions to increase demand for pre-loved clothes. Increased demand would strengthen the charity-operated second-hand sector, which provides critically important social support to all Australians in need, while also contributing to national carbon emissions and waste reduction targets. To ensure wide uptake, we will share our findings with the academic community and the charity-operated second-hand retail sector nationwide.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2026 · 2026-01

Sabatier principle for electrochemistry in organic solvents. This project aims to provide a new framework for selecting optimal catalysts for electrocatalysis in organic solvents, providing an underexplored yet critical route to efficient and selective production of new fuels and valuable chemicals. This project is expected to generate new knowledge by establishing a solvent-sensitive principle to predict catalytic performance, complemented by advanced computational modelling and experimental validation. This new knowledge will be widely applicable, with the important issue of producing ammonia for fertilizer and energy storage explored in detail. Renewable energy-powered electrocatalysis is central to our transition to a sustainable future, and this project intends to enhance this process. Field of research: 3407 - Theoretical and Computational Chemistry Many industrial processes including metal refinement, fertilizer manufacture, production of fuels, and energy storage, rely on electrocatalysis, where electric current speeds up a chemical reaction in the presence of a catalyst. Optimizing electrocatalytic processes saves energy, time and money for these industries. So far, most optimization has focused on reactions in water-based electrolytes, but recent results report other solvents can enhance performance to break the limitations in water. This project aims to design and test better electrocatalytic processes, including the solvent, using computational modelling and simulations combined with experimental validations. The results will be widely applicable to many industrial processes, potentially making Australian industries more competitive. The outcomes will be broadly communicated through publications, online platforms and media. Using the approach developed, we will consider nitrogen reduction to ammonia for sustainable fertilizer production and energy storage. Although fertilizer is essential for agriculture to feed our population, current production process consumes 2% of the world's fossil fuel energy and generates 1.3% of global carbon dioxide emissions. Therefore, realisation of sustainable electrocatalytic fertilizer production addresses critical needs for Australia by enhancing agriculture and improving the environment, with the potential to also boost the ammonia industry in Australia.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2026 · 2026-01

Reducing Sewage Greenhouse Gas Emissions via Direct Off-gas Treatment. This project aims to support the water industry in reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by optimising or retrofitting existing gas-capture infrastructure. It focuses on improving the performance of odour treatment systems, developing advanced solutions such as aerobic biological biofilters and catalytic technologies, and evaluating their scalability and cost-effectiveness. The project responds to the urgent need for low-emission technologies in the transition to net-zero operations. By bringing together interdisciplinary expertise and emerging technologies, the project is expected to significantly reduce GHG emissions from wastewater treatment and contribute to the water sector’s goal of net-zero emissions by 2050. Field of research: 4004 - Chemical Engineering The project contributes significantly to Australia's national interests by addressing crucial challenges within the water industry linked to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Australian water utilities servicing over 16 million Australians have committed to achieve net-zero operations by as early as 2030. Given the ambitious target, this initiative aligns with the national goals to combat climate change. By focusing on mitigating potent GHGs like N2O and CH4, which account for over 95% of the carbon footprint in wastewater treatment, the project tackles a pressing national concern. Its innovative approach to develop end-of-the-pipe off-gas treatment technologies aligns with Australia's strategic research priorities in environmental change, fostering resilience in urban infrastructure and expanding the nation's knowledge base in cutting-edge technologies. Furthermore, the project's emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration and the integration of world-class expertise positions the Australian water industry as a leader in global efforts to combat climate change, contributing to a smooth transition into a low-carbon economy era.

GrantConnect (Australian Government grants) · FY 2026 · 2026-01

How Adherens junctions coordinate cell signaling for epithelial... Category: Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences (HASS) Research

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2026 · 2026-01

Advanced Liquid-Helium-Free Superconductors for Affordable Fusion Power. This project aims to develop a novel superconducting (SC) magnet for next-gen fusion reactors that operates without liquid helium (LHe), which is costly and non-renewable. Using radiation resistant, isotopic, and high-temperature SC materials, it will produce durable fusion-grade high-field magnets that reduce energy losses and enhance performance. These magnets will use low-radioactive materials, making them safer and affordable for fusion energy generation. The goal is to create compact, low-activation SC magnets that withstand extreme fusion conditions, lower operational costs, and eliminate LHe use—positioning Australia as a global leader in clean, sustainable fusion energy and delivering significant economic and environmental benefits. Field of research: 5104 - Condensed Matter Physics Fusion energy offers a near-limitless, low-emission power source, but its realisation demands breakthrough innovations in magnet technology. Current systems rely on expensive niobium (Nb)-based low temperature superconductors and non-renewable liquid helium (LHe) cooling, driving up costs and limiting scalability. This project will develop a novel, Nb- and LHe-free and low-cost superconducting (SC) magnet using isotopically engineered, radiation resistant, high-temperature SC materials. These magnets will be lightweight, durable, and energy-efficient—tailored for the extreme demands of next-generation fusion reactors. In partnership with Hyper Tech Research (USA), a global leader in applied superconductivity, the project positions Australia at the cutting edge of fusion technology innovation. It will accelerate domestic capability in SC materials, magnet manufacturing, and clean energy systems, opening access to global markets valued in the billions. This initiative will catalyse high-value job creation, industry development, and commercial spinouts in Australia's advanced manufacturing and energy sectors. It supports national priorities in net-zero emissions, sovereign capability, and global science leadership. By translating frontier science into real-world solutions, this project enables Australia to shape their capacity building and accelerates its readiness for the future of fusion energy while delivering lasting economic, technological, and environmental benefits.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2026 · 2026-01

Next-Gen Markerless 3D Motion Capture from Sparse Camera Views. This project aims to develop a next-generation 3D motion analysis platform that leverages advanced data-driven and graph-based modeling techniques to capture and interpret human poses in complex environments, eliminating the need for expensive and cumbersome marker-based motion capture systems. It will introduce innovative spatiotemporal data mining and dynamic graph modelling knowledge and techniques, enabling the developed platform to efficiently analyse 3D motion data in challenging real-world scenarios. The resulting system is expected to benefit a wide range of applications, such as human movements evaluation and personalised exercise recommendations, ultimately enhancing the quality of life and longevity for Australians. Field of research: 4605 - Data Management and Data Science The primary goal of this project is to address the pressing need for precise and reliable measurement of human movement in the fields of sports performance analysis and physical exercise monitoring. Beyond its impact on sports, the project will introduce groundbreaking advancements in aged care services and personal health management, enabling better monitoring of mobility and well-being. By fostering the development of cutting-edge technologies, this project aligns with Australia’s national interest, particularly in promoting physical activity and exercise across all age groups. It also supports key national goals, such as those outlined in the Sport 2030 agenda, aimed at improving the health and fitness of Australians. The anticipated outcomes will not only contribute to elevating Australia's standing in global sports but also play a pivotal role in enhancing the overall quality of life, health, and longevity of the Australian population. These innovations are expected to significantly benefit diverse sectors, including healthcare, rehabilitation, and sports science, ultimately creating a more active and healthier society.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2026 · 2026-01

Flexible Crystals. Crystalline materials are considered to be brittle and inflexible. Some molecular crystals have, however, recently been found to have remarkable elasticity and can bend and stretch sufficiently to be tied into a knot. This project aims to explicitly understand why some metal-organic molecular crystals are flexible and others are not. This project will generate new knowledge on the mechanical properties of the crystals and the molecular-scale mechanisms for contortion will be determined and correlated to provide structure-function relationships. This will allow the design of new flexible crystals for applications previously considered impossible for crystals, benefiting the economy through development of new high-value materials. Field of research: 3403 - Macromolecular and Materials Chemistry Progress in engineering, technology and science is directly linked to the discovery, understanding and capacity for exploiting new materials and their properties. Crystalline materials have myriad potential applications in a wide range of technologies including new smart materials for high tech electronic devices, energy conversion, communications and more. Until recently, however, a major limitation in the use of crystals has been due to the perception that they are brittle and prone to cracking and breaking even under moderate strain. We have discovered a range of crystalline materials that display high levels of elasticity; they can bend, twist and stretch reversibly and all while maintaining their structural integrity. This opens a vast scope for new high-tech applications using crystals where flexibility is needed. In this project we are aiming to understand why these crystals are flexible. The answers will allow us to then design and develop new materials with specific applications in mind, with flow-on benefits to entrepreneurial industry and high-tech manufacturing. Fields including flexible electronics, optical communication, magnetic switching and many more will benefit. Training in frontier science for higher degree and post-doctoral researchers will also be achieved through the critical advances to be realised through this project enabling the next generation of researchers for the future benefit of Australia’s high-tech industries.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2026 · 2026-01

Accelerating sustainability by improving nitrogen fixation of legume crops. Symbiotic nitrogen fixation in crop legumes is essential for sustainable agriculture but is compromised by common agricultural practices and environmental conditions. This project will optimise legume nitrogen fixation through genetic variation to enhance the plant’s ability to acquire nitrogen for biomass and yield. Expected outcomes will include novel legume varieties having enhanced nitrogen fixation traits suitable for suboptimal growing conditions. This should provide significant benefits, such as increased yields and enhanced nitrogen retention in agricultural soils, resulting in reduced nitrogen fertiliser use and conscious environmental outcomes for primary industries. Field of research: 3108 - Plant Biology Legume crops are vital to Australia’s agriculture due to their nutritional value, economic importance, and their unique ability to utilise atmospheric nitrogen for growth and enrich soils through symbiotic nitrogen fixation. This process reduces the need for synthetic fertilisers, lowering costs and environmental impacts. However, most breeding programs have not targeted the genetic traits that optimise this process. This project will address that gap by developing legume varieties with improved nitrogen fixation and higher yields, even under variable soil conditions. By uncovering specific gene variations linked to enhanced nitrogen fixation, the project will provide tools and targets for crop breeders to develop more productive and resilient legume varieties. These innovations can directly benefit Australian farmers by increasing profitability, improving soil health, and reducing fertiliser use, contributing to more sustainable farming systems. To ensure these outcomes reach beyond the lab, the research team will actively engage with breeding companies, industry partners, and agricultural extension networks. This will support the translation of discoveries into real-world improvements, aligned with the Australian Government’s 2030 goal of building a $100 billion agricultural sector, and supporting Australia’s broader food security and environmental sustainability commitments.

GrantConnect (Australian Government grants) · FY 2026 · 2026-01

Building the world’s largest bipolar Stem Cell resource to elucidate... Category: Medical Research

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2026 · 2026-01

Long-range calcium-dependent neuronal signalling in learning and memory. Memory is a core element in our brain that underpins learning, problem-solving, behaviour and environmental adaptation, and requires a continuance of gene expression and protein synthesis in nerve cells. This project aims to investigate the molecular mechanisms of how nerve cells regulate the long-term expression of memory-related genes using an innovative combination of quantitative microscopy, gene knockout mice, epigenomics and behavioural neuroscience techniques. The expected outcomes will enhance our insights into the inner workings of genes that govern learning and memory formation, knowledge that is critical for our understanding of how memory is established and maintained over the long term. Field of research: 3209 - Neurosciences Memory is a core brain feature that is fundamental to survival. It allows us to remember learnt experiences, shapes our sense of self, helps with decision-making, and determines how we interact with the world. This proposal will address molecular mechanisms underlying long-term memory formation in the brain, addressing a long-standing knowledge gap in modern neuroscience. The outcome of this project will enhance our understanding of how the brain processes, stores and retrieves information. New knowledge gained will benefit multiple industries, ranging from brain-inspired artificial intelligence in engineering to the future development of new drug targets for enhancing cognitive performance. Since memory deficits can lead to poor educational outcomes, reduced productivity and social isolation, the outcomes could also have major implications for improving the creativity and quality of life of the Australian population and increasing workforce participation, thus bringing long-term social and economic benefits across generations. We will disseminate our findings and engage with stakeholders in the pharmaceutical industry, educators, and community groups. Translating these discoveries and any resultant intellectual property would require longer-term engagement with industry partners via patent protection and licensing agreements. The short-term outcomes of this project will also enhance Australian research and train the next generation of neuroscientists.

GrantConnect (Australian Government grants) · FY 2026 · 2026-01

Characterising blood oxygenation changes in functional human brain... Category: Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences (HASS) Research

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2026 · 2026-01

Modernising Water Security: Advanced hazard detection in water sources. In Australia, incidents of drinking water contamination have increased over recent years in recognition of a growing number and diversity of water contaminants. Future-ready mitigation strategies are urgently needed to ensure safe potable water supply. This project aims to deliver a technology for rapid screening and identification of contaminant hazards in Australian potable water sources. In collaboration with the Australian water industry and QLD health department, the project expects to deliver a computational tool for enhanced water security of drinking water resources. Results are expected to impact public health protection, allow for significant costs reduction and support both urban and regional communities across Australia. Field of research: 3401 - Analytical Chemistry Provision of critical and safe drinking water to Australian communities requires ongoing and accurate monitoring of water supplies for effective decision-making. However, current monitoring relies on several disparate analytical methods that investigate only a small fraction of environmental contaminants. New hazard monitoring tools are urgently required to keep up with the comprehensive list of contaminants such as industrial chemicals, pesticides and disinfection by-products and respond to contamination events. This project aims to combine recent advancements in High Resolution Mass Spectrometry analysis of chemical contaminants and computational Machine Learning algorithms to create a first of its kind accurate, and robust technology for identification of chemical threats in drinking water systems, enabling the streamlined processing of large and complex datasets. The outcomes of this project will directly support the objectives of the National Water Policy and Water Laws and Water Regulations 2008 by strengthening our capacity to monitor and manage water quality at scale. Open-source tools from this project will be shared nationally, offering practical solutions for utilities and government. Through industry collaboration and targeted training, the project will build workforce capability and accelerate research translation. This innovation supports global water security efforts and strengthens Australia’s leadership in sustainable water management and public health.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2026 · 2026-01

Real time prediction of workload in complex dynamic environments. Aim: The aim of this project is to develop a computational model that can be used in real time to predict the point at which a human operator is likely to become cognitively overloaded. Significance: Cognitive overload is a critical safety risk that needs to be managed in modern work settings, yet it is extremely difficult to predict the onset of overload, because of the variability in the strategies that people use to manage task demands. Outcomes: The expected outcome is a model that uses advanced computational methods to estimate workload in real time and predict overload before it occurs. Benefits: The model can be used to ensure that workload of human operators remains within safe limits, reducing the risk of catastrophic failure. Field of research: 5204 - Cognitive and Computational Psychology The purpose of this project is to develop a computational model that can predict when a person is likely to become overloaded. Excessive workload is a safety risk in a range of sectors that are central to Australia's national security and economic well-being (e.g., for civil and military pilots flying Uncrewed Aerial Vehicles, air traffic controllers, medical personnel). As civil and military systems become more complex, there is a pressing need for algorithms that can identify when an operator will reach their capacity limit, so that controls can be put in place (eg., by reallocating work to other operators or allowing automation to take over part of the job). Algorithms of this type will benefit Australia by making civil and military systems operated by humans safer and more effective, and by protecting the well-being of the operators. In order to ensure that the research is relevant, we will establish an industry advisory panel with representatives from the defence and aerospace sectors. The role of the industry advisory panel will be to provide guidance on the project and facilitate engagement with potential translation partners.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2026 · 2026-01

Unlock the Potentials of Low-grade Australian Iron Ores for Green Steel. Australia’s most valuable export is iron ore, but the future value of this industry is at risk because premium-grade Pilbara ore reserves are depleting, and miners will need to access ores with more impurities. This project aims to understand how iron ores with high concentrations of aluminium and phosphorus behave in H2 direct reduced iron (DRI) and electric smelting furnaces, which are key green steel technologies. We will combine experimental insights into DRI softening, melting, and slag-metal interactions with advanced models to develop new methods for removing alumina and phosphorus during green steel production. The project expects to generate crucial knowledge on low-grade DRI, helping the steel industry to reduce CO2 emissions. Field of research: 4019 - Resources Engineering and Extractive Metallurgy While hydrogen reduction of iron ores is acknowledged as a promising way for low-carbon steelmaking and is extensively researched, not enough attention is drawn to the post reduction processes, the melting of direct reduced iron and the subsequent impurity removal in an electric arc furnace. These two steps are critical during green steel production from the low-grade high-alumina and phosphorus-bearing Australia iron ores which prevails as Australian premium iron ores undergo depletion. This project aims to answer how the increased alumina and phosphorus contents affect the melting and how the chemistry and fluid dynamics of the molten system can be regulated to achieve best impurity removal efficiency. The project outcome offers a pathway to utilise low-grade iron ores in green steel production and formulates scientific solution to underpin the value uplifting of these ores, directly benefiting Australian export industry. The project results will also mitigate the carbon dioxide emission, contributing to the long-term sustainability of Australian iron ores. The close collaboration with industry ensures the industry’s deep knowledge is leveraged in the project, while the latest technologies and knowledge discovered from the project are applied to the steelworks. The partnership will advance Australia towards the net-zero carbon dioxide emissions.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2026 · 2026-01

Small-Scale CO2 Methanation Process for Decarbonising Australian Gas Supply. This project will use biomass-derived gas mixtures to produce pipeline-grade methane, accelerating the decarbonisation of gas networks. It focuses on improving the Sabatier process, which converts carbon dioxide into synthetic natural gas - a key method for recycling carbon dioxide, storing renewable energy, and transporting hydrogen. Traditional Sabatier reactors struggle with heat management, demanding costly equipment and large space. To address this, the project will develop ultra-compact reactors using 3D printing and process modelling. This innovation will enhance energy efficiency, reduce environmental impact, and position Australia at the forefront of carbon capture and utilisation technologies. Field of research: 4004 - Chemical Engineering In 2021- 22, Australia consumed 1,528 petajoules (PJ) of gas - critical for power generation (33%) as firming support for renewables; mining and industry (50%) for high-temperature processes and feedstocks; and homes and businesses (14%) for heating and cooking. Yet in 2022, gas use and supply produced 103 million tonnes (Mt) of CO₂-eqv., which equates to 24% of national emissions, including 22 Mt from fugitive methane alone. Renewable methane is a strategic enabler of decarbonisation - offering a drop-in, low-carbon alternative that aligns with existing gas infrastructure while supporting hydrogen integration. Our project advances this solution by converting biomass-derived gas mixtures into renewable methane using improved Sabatier process. Current reactors, however, are inefficient and commercially unviable due to poor heat and flow management. We aim to transform this by integrating advanced process modelling with additive manufacturing to create ultra-compact, optimised reactors. This innovation will enable efficient, scalable production of pipeline-grade renewable methane - accelerating gas network decarbonisation and driving Australia’s transition to net zero by 2050, while creating local jobs and industrial capability.