University of Technology Sydney

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2021 · 2021-01

Targeted Graph Embedding for Anomaly Detection in Large-scale Networks. This project aims to tackle the challenging problem of anomaly detection in large-scale networks by leveraging graph embedding techniques. It expects to deliver a series of innovative graph embedding algorithms targeting optimised anomaly detection. By addressing under-developed research challenges, such as the versatile types of anomalies and lack of anomaly labels, the established theories and devised methodologies will advance frontier technologies in both graph anomaly detection and graph representation learning. By uncovering anomalies with high efficiency and accuracy, this project will contribute to multiple real applications from fake review detection to financial fraud identification, bringing both social and economic benefits. Field of research: 0801 - Artificial Intelligence and Image Processing This project will develop effective and innovative solutions to detect anomalies, representing irregular entities, patterns, and behaviors, in large-scale networks. The delivered theoretical foundations and frontier technologies will enhance Australia’s competitiveness in this research field. The developed solutions will enable efficient and accurate anomaly detection in large-scale networks to be applied in a wide range of domains, from identifying fraud in cybersecurity, finance, and health care to uncovering fake news, fake product reviews and misleading political opinions in online platforms. This will provide considerable social and economic benefits to all Australians, whether they be victims of fraud or consumers who shoulder the burden of losses caused by fraud.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2021 · 2021-01

Deciphering the molecular mechanisms of parasite-host interactions. The completion of genome projects for several helminths of veterinary significance has provided novel insights into the fundamentals of helminth biology. One outcome is the identification of microRNAs, a subclass of small regulatory RNAs which in plants and mammalian cells control diverse biological processes at the posttranscriptional level. We have discovered the presence of helminth miRNAs within host cells with the ability to mimic mammalian miRNAs to modulate innate immune responses. This project will discover how helminths hijack the mammalian miRNA machinery to regulate host gene expression and thus support long-term infection. The outcomes will highlight new avenues for the control of these persistent worm infections. Field of research: 0707 - Veterinary Sciences The annual cost associated with parasitic diseases in livestock in Australia has been estimated at >$ 500 million. Treatment of these disease relies heavily on a small number of drugs. However, due to the emergence of resistance, the use of chemical products to control parasitic infections is not sustainable in the long term. In addition, there is a global shift in consumer awareness about chemical residues in food, and the detrimental impact they have on the environment and personal health. Accordingly, there is revived interest in the identification and application of non-chemotherapeutic means of control. Although there have been significant advances in parasite research, challenges remain in understanding how precisely helminths interact with their hosts, and how to use such knowledge to develop new ways of combating these parasitic infections. This project will identify parasite-derived miRNAs which are critical to their infectivity, a fundamental step on the road to discovery and development of new therapeutic approaches in the treatment of parasite infections.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2021 · 2021-01

Robotic Perception with Unconventional Sensors . Autonomy in robotic systems currently relies on conventional sensors such as lasers and cameras. Alternative sensing modalities as in the case of active electromagnetic sensors are commonly used to detect flaws, cracks and assess infrastructure’s integrity, however, fundamental research questions preclude their use for robotic perception. This project will develop the theory and algorithms to enable perception tasks such as localisation, mapping and recognition with unconventional sensors. The outcomes of this research have the potential to improve the effectiveness of critical civil infrastructure maintenance technology through accurate and reliable inspections, and the reduced need for human intervention. Field of research: 0801 - Artificial Intelligence and Image Processing Much of the world’s critical infrastructure is ageing and requires regular inspections and maintenance to prolong working life, increase resilience and minimise failures. Autonomous robots will play an increasingly essential role in the inspection and maintenance of critical infrastructure. This project will lead to new and improved solutions through the use of unconventional sensing modalities, such as non-destructive testing, that will enable the next generation of infrastructure robotics to be developed and deployed. The project has a clear potential to bring significant benefits to society by greatly improving the efficiency of critical infrastructure maintenance through faster, lower-cost, enhanced inspections, both helping infrastructure owners to improve maintenance efficiency and productivity, and reducing risks to public and workforce safety that are inherent when infrastructure is not adequately maintained.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2021 · 2021-01

High Quality Gallium Oxide for Power Electronics. This project aims to combine advanced nanocharacterisation techniques with complementary expertise in semiconductor growth to produce high-quality gallium oxide that will enable fabrication of high efficiency, cost-effective power electronics. These state-of-the-art devices are urgently required to significantly reduce power conversion losses to maximise the performance and benefits of electricity generation systems using renewable energy sources. The availability of superior oxide materials with bespoke electrical properties will enable the construction of fast high-voltage electronic switches, converters and other components with enhanced performance and unique capabilities. Field of research: 1007 - Nanotechnology The oxide semiconductors developed in this project will enable the fabrication of superior power electronics for use in renewable power technologies (solar, wind, hydro and geothermal) that will reduce energy consumption and cut greenhouse gas emissions by replacing bulky and less efficient power devices and systems now in use, providing major economic, environmental and social benefits to Australia. The latest technologies in materials characterisation and fabrication techniques for oxide growth are utilised in this research project, creating excellent research training opportunities for future Australian scientists. The project will position Australia as a key international player in the development and commercialisation of high-performance practical all-oxide power electronic devices with enhanced and new capabilities.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2021 · 2021-01

Gas Explosion Resistance of Non-Cement Based High Performance Concrete. This project aims to study gas explosion resistance of non-cement-based ultra-high performance concrete after fire hazards. Fuel gases such as natural gas and hydrogen are becoming increasingly more popular in Australia. Due to their wide flammability range, there is considerable concern about the potential fire and explosion hazard. Until now, there is limited knowledge on this topic and conventional concrete has been proved incapable of handling this multi-hazard scenario. The expected outcomes of this project include a detailed knowledge of multi-hazard scenario and a safety design with the non-cement-based ultra-high performance concrete. Successful delivery of this project ensures structural safety in Australia and wider community. Field of research: 0905 - Civil Engineering Natural gas has become a popular energy source in Australia. Due to its wide flammability range, there is considerable concern about the potential fire and explosion hazard. In recent years, there has been increasingly more reports on the gas explosion hazards in the manufacturing process and residential use. Until now, the knowledge of the gas explosion is still scarce and its effect to nearby structures is even less known. In addition, despite the conventional concrete has been proven incapable of resisting such hazards, there is no study on high performance concrete under coupled gas explosion and fire loads. The outcomes of this project will enable in-depth knowledge on the gas explosion and provide engineers with the tools needed for preliminary analysis and design of non-cement based ultra-high performance concrete structural members against coupled gas explosion and fire hazards.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2021 · 2021-01

Brain Robot Interface for Physical Human Robot Collaboration. This project aims to discover new knowledge of cognitive conflict and develop models and algorithms that enable intuitive physical human-robot collaboration to jointly conduct laborious tasks in complex, unstructured environments. It proposes to build on responses in the human brain when a robot does not operate in a way the human expects. Conflict models and prediction method are planned using advanced machine learning algorithms. The model and algorithms are intended to be integrated into an innovative brain-robot interface for field testing in a real-world industrial task. Translation of the outcomes to industry is expected to produce substantial economic and societal benefits through improved productivity and safety. Field of research: 0801 - Artificial Intelligence and Image Processing This project is designed to deliver significant and immediate impacts to assistive robotics research and its applications. This research will enable the development of intelligent assistive robots that can collaborate with humans in industrial applications where humans are still needed to do physically intensive tasks, spend long periods of time resisting large forces, have to adopt awkward body postures, and work in dusty and noisy environments, for example in manufacturing, construction, mining and health. Applications of the research are expected to produce substantial economic benefits for Australia in improved productivity, reduced cost of injuries, support for the nation’s skills base and new business opportunities. This project meets the Australian National Science and Research Priorities on advanced manufacturing, health, and the economy.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2021 · 2021-01

Shareholder voting at Australian annual general meetings. The Australian Corporations Act requires public companies to hold an annual general meeting (AGM) of shareholders. This project aims to address several important issues regarding the integrity, transparency, effectiveness and consequences of voting at Australian AGMs in relation to: show of hands voting, AGM characteristics and technology use, and director elections. As there is limited prior research on these matters this project expects to generate significant new knowledge. The project outcomes will provide significant benefits as the findings will support moves towards best practice in governance and thereby enhance public confidence in the integrity of the Australian financial market. Field of research: 1502 - Banking, Finance and Investment The effective operation of voting at Australian AGMs is critically important as it is the only mechanism by which many shareholders can express views on firm governance. Given this crucial function, it is limiting that there is currently no evidence on the integrity, nature and effect of voting at Australian AGMs. Ensuring that the principle of "one vote, one value" applies in practice at AGMs is critical in fostering investor and consumer trust in Australian financial markets. In recognition of this point, the Australian Securities and Investment Commission (ASIC) has identified AGM culture and conduct as important. This project’s novel and rigorous empirical evidence will inform current regulatory debates, and facilitate targeted enforcement by regulators. Since the effective governance of listed firms is crucial to the confidence of shareholders when making investment decisions, this project contributes to the Australian national interest through its potential to have economic and commercial benefits.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2021 · 2021-01

Geodetic groups: foundational problems in algebra and computer science. The project aims to resolve important and longstanding open problems in Geometric Group Theory and Theoretical Computer Science. Since the 1980s researchers have conjectured that the geometric property of being geodetic is equivalent to several purely algebraic, algorithmic, and language-theoretic characterisations. The project team's expertise in geodesic properties of groups, the interaction between formal languages and groups, and the theory of rewriting systems, together with recent breakthroughs by the team ensures that significant results can be expected. Benefits include training research students and postdoctoral researchers in cutting-edge techniques, and advancing fundamental knowledge in mathematics and computer science. Field of research: 0101 - Pure Mathematics This project concerns the theory of how computers work. We aim to resolve a number of key and foundational open problems that have confounded computer scientists and mathematicians for many decades. Resolution of these problems, and the deeper understanding of algorithms and computing systems that will ensue, promise significant national benefit. Applications to data security, network optimisation and algorithm development will present competitive advantages for the Australian software, cyber-security and emerging quantum computing industries. The project will also develop Australian expertise and reputation in these critical industries by training Australian students and early career researchers who will be the future high-tech industry leaders.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2021 · 2021-01

Microbe-produced repellents and their roles in marine pathogen behaviours. Economic losses caused by disease outbreaks in marine fisheries and aquaculture exceed US$6 billion per year globally. Decades of research in human and plant pathogens have revealed that the ability of pathogens to infect their host is governed by behaviours; however our understanding of the chemical cues affecting the behaviour of marine pathogens is very poor. This research program aims to combine new approaches in microfluidics and chemical imaging to identify the cues that govern the behaviour of marine pathogens. Expected outcomes include an improved capacity to predict, monitor and manage marine diseases, as well as novel strategies to prevent disease outbreaks, helping to protect Australia’s valuable marine estate. Field of research: 0605 - Microbiology The Australian marine industry is one of the fastest growing sectors of the economy, estimated to reach an annual worth of $125 million by 2025. However, the rise of diseases is negatively impacting the industry’s productivity. This project will generate 3 main outcomes. (1) By identifying the repellent molecules dictating how pathogens spread in the environment and the factors influencing their production, it will elucidate when and where pathogens might cause an outbreak, improving our capacity to predict, monitor and manage marine and aquaculture diseases. (2) By leveraging the strong repulsion these molecules induce, it will provide novel approaches to prevent mass-mortality caused by pathogens in aquaculture, enhancing the profitability of the sector. (3) By investigating the ecological role of repellents in other marine bacteria, it will elucidate how their production might play a role in the carbon cycle, ultimately influencing the climate of our planet. These outcomes will be relevant to scientists, aquaculture farmers, marine ecosystems managers, and by extension, the Australian community at large.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2021 · 2021-01

A sentinel network for vibration-based termite control. Termite damage is costly and eradication via chemicals is hazardous to environment and health. As termites use vibrations to make foraging decisions and eavesdrop on competitors/predators, it is feasible but not attempted hitherto to detect and control termites using vibrations. A smart sentinel network will be developed to enable timber infrastructure to be continuously monitored for termites and for termites to be repelled using specific vibration signals and manipulated structures, with minimal environmental and health impacts. For this network to be efficient and effective, an improved understanding on how vibrations influence termite sociality will be obtained by studying habituation and signal adaptation on collective behaviour. Field of research: 0913 - Mechanical Engineering Australia is the third largest market for termite control, after the USA and Japan. It has been estimated by CSIRO that about one in three Australian houses will be attacked by termites in their lifetime. Currently, an Australian designed, patented and manufactured product based on microwave scattering is the only reliable termite detector, but it does not monitor the structure continuously, because it requires a trained pest control professional and is too expensive to be retrofitted and deployed over many locations; also, it is not able to drive termites out of already infested timber. This project aims at developing a novel smart sentinel network technology which detects as well as repels termites based on microvibrations. This project will contribute significantly to innovative smart sensing and non-chemical based control of termites, to reduce termite damage and costs, with benefits for the environment, health and economy and further consolidating Australia’s world leading position in termite detection as well as innovative pest control.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2021 · 2021-01

Low-Cost Wireless Transmitter with Compact Package for Industrial Sensing . This project aims to provide a solid foundation for silicon-based transmitter design with beam-steering capability operating beyond 100 GHz. The project expects to advance knowledge in low-cost radio-frequency integrated circuit design with miniaturised packaging technology for use in industrial sensing. Expected outcomes of this project include a prototype consisting of a miniaturised 140-GHz phased-array transmitter with packaged antenna arrays, along with a developed selection guideline to choose the "best" silicon-based technology node for cost-effective design. This should provide benefits for organisations working on wireless sensing technologies and lead to new ways of using these technologies for a variety of emerging applications. Field of research: 0906 - Electrical and Electronic Engineering This project will create low-cost, advanced designs of radio-frequency integrated circuits which are essential for ultra-fast wireless communications and high-resolution imaging. In particular, the new technology will be critical for many safety and collision avoidance features of future vehicles, including autonomous vehicles. The global market for advanced imaging and communication technologies is growing rapidly, and this project will enable Australian companies to play a significant role in offering high-performance, innovative commercial products to global export markets. The advanced chip designs will not only save resources and lower production cost, but will ultimately provide better safety to drivers, cyclists and pedestrians and improve wireless communication technologies for offices, schools, public spaces and homes. Importantly, this industry-relevant research project will provide training opportunities for the next-generation of job-ready researchers and engineers in Australia with advanced chip design skills, enabling local companies to create new jobs and to generate more export revenue.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2021 · 2021-01

ARC Research Hub for Nutrients in a Circular Economy (NiCE). Urban utilities are in need to design resilient wastewater infrastructure to tackle the pressures of urban intensification, waterways pollution and climate change. This Hub aims to transform the wastewater industry with an unprecedented, city-scale circular economy of nutrients based on urine separation and processing at building level, to produce safe and effective liquid fertilisers. By engaging with stakeholders across the value chain, this Hub expects to bring two urine processing technologies to commercial readiness, and to produce new regulations and business models for the circular economy. This will add resilience to the wastewater and urban farming industries, and will create market opportunities for new Australian technologies. Field of research: 0907 - Environmental Engineering The NiCE Hub will make Australia the world leader of a new circular economy, based on nutrient recycling through the separation, collection and processing of human urine into safe and effective fertilisers. It will use an integrated and multidisciplinary approach to create the technical and social know-how, the business models and the regulatory frameworks needed for the uptake of this circular economy concept. The Hub’s outcomes will directly benefit Australia’s water utilities, agriculture, and manufacturing sectors. Urine recycling can save up to 50% of sewage treatment operating costs and avoid costly capital upgrades. It can help grow food for over a million people in Australia, enhancing food security through decreased dependence on imported fertilisers. New technology (toilet designs, sensors and membranes processes for urine) will create new opportunities for Australia’s manufacturing sector. The Australian society will benefit from a leapfrog in urban resilience and liveability. The environment will benefit from a reduced discharge of pollutants into waterways.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2021 · 2021-01

Upconversion nanophotonic systems . The photon upconversion process can produce visible light from lower-energy near-infrared incident light. This Laureate Program aims to address major bottlenecks in upconversion nanotechnology – the efficiency, stability and absorption bandwidth. Expected outcomes include new knowledge in the interface design of hybrid materials, a world-leading single-particle spectroscopy system, a new family of molecular probes, and novel super-resolution microscopy for functional imaging of subcellular organelles. This research offers exciting opportunities for single-molecule tracking, quantitative diagnostics, non-invasive imaging, bio-mechanical force measurement and thermometry; tools to observe the nanoscale world inside live cells. Field of research: 1007 - Nanotechnology This project will create more efficient and stable hybrid materials to convert infrared photons into intense visible light, giving rise to a new family of molecular probes and a range of analytical, diagnostic and imaging devices for the rapid detection of cells and molecules in the field. Such single-molecule detection will allow point-of-care testing of diseases and infections in clinics, airports, and nursing homes. The new methods are also expected to enable healthcare advances, e.g. super-resolution imaging and precise drug release by using less harmful infrared light through deep tissue. Environmental benefits include more efficient solar energy use for photovoltaics and photocatalysis of wastewater. By leveraging existing investment from Australian SMEs, universities and medical institutes, this project will drive Australian innovation and support economic recovery by producing highly novel reagents for the Australian analytical instrument and biomedical imaging industry and will train our next generation of job-ready graduates in nano/biotechnologies, photonics and advanced manufacturing.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2021 · 2021-01

Decarbonising built environments with hempcrete and green wall technology. This project aims to develop an integrated prefabricated building panel solution combining green wall and hempcrete technology to address environmental problems associated with the usage of carbon intensive construction materials, dense urbanisation, climate change and biodiversity. Innovation in hempcrete technology consist in using low carbon options including alkali-activated binders and biomineralization technology, glass waste replacing natural sand. Hempcrete green wall panels will be design to be carbon positive, improve the thermal performance of buildings, provide better acoustic insolation, reduce the risk of mould proliferation, control indoor humidity and air quality and improve indoor thermal comfort. Field of research: 0905 - Civil Engineering The integrated prefabricated building panel solution, combining green wall and hempcrete technology to be realised through this project, is anticipated to deliver significant environmental benefits critical to Australia delivering on its 2030 emissions reduction targets. The development of carbon positive construction materials and improved resource efficiencies through reduced resource intensity of building products will reduce appetite for fossil fuel-based products, while mitigating environmental problems associated with dense urbanisation. Hemp fibre biomass farming will drive uptake of regenerative farming practices, reducing landfill burden and resulting in delivering higher rates of carbon sequestration and increased carbon banking in infrastructure. The project will also deliver societal benefits associated with improved thermal and acoustic performance and comfort in buildings, and lower occupational energy costs. Improved air quality through elimination of mould will reduce allergies and drive down the significant healthcare costs associated with poor quality housing and workplaces.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2021 · 2021-01

Climate impacts on grass phenology, diversity and pollen exposure. This project investigates how climate change is altering the phenology, plant diversity, and airborne pollen exposure in Australia's highly productive dry grasslands. The project is expected to answer key questions on shifting grasslands and grass pollen relationships with grass phenology and diversity by merging satellite analysis of phenology with seasonal airborne pollen measures of grass concentrations and diversity. Expected outcomes of this project will be better management options to safeguard allergy sufferers and improved ecological and pollen forecasts under climate change and extreme events. This project should provide important public health benefits and disease mitigation strategies to Australia's urban and remote areas. Field of research: 0501 - Ecological Applications Changes in plant growth patterns due to climate variability and extreme events have important consequences to human health and the Australian economy. This research contributes to Australia's national interest through pioneering knowledge of our changing grasslands and associated altered patterns of pollen exposure to human health. Grasslands have immense economic, health and environmental value through their role in public health (grass pollen aeroallergens), biosecurity (weed invasions), food security (grazing industry), and biodiversity. This project should improve decision making capabilities in the area of health risk and pollen forecasting for management and mitigation of aero-allergenic diseases in Australia’s population. The project should also provide improved decision making capabilities during extreme drought, heat, and wet events. Lastly, the utilisation of satellite data in health care management and grassland monitoring benefits the newly founded Australian Space Agency and promotes Australian contributions to the international space community.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2021 · 2021-01

Field Data based Predictive Maintenance and Enhanced Track Design Procedure. Providing improved railroad design and maintenance solutions with accurate and timely assessment of track performance is vital to reduce the disruption of services, excessive maintenance costs and degradation over time. This project aims to develop a predictive maintenance model based on extensive wayside measurements to monitor and predict the nature of track instability. This will also be supplemented by mathematical modelling to corroborate large-scale laboratory observations with past and real-time field monitoring records. This project will deliver tangible strategies and tools to increase track longevity and assist decision-makers in planning and prioritising corrective maintenance to ensure improved safety and passenger comfort. Field of research: 0905 - Civil Engineering Specific National Benefits: Considering the agriculture and mining sectors, the lack of capacity to maintain transportation infrastructure to support enhanced passenger mobility and efficient freight movement (i.e. connecting ports with the regional and rural areas) is of grave concern. No State could fulfil the requirements for attaining even a C-rating for the rail sector compared to the expected standards of the developed world (Engineers Australia 2010). By examining large data sets acquired through field and large-scale laboratory studies, this project aims to increase the current level of understanding in critical areas of uncertainty and risk, and to provide improved engineering solutions for design and maintenance of railways. The outcomes will minimise rail infrastructure upgrading costs, while increasing the productivity of our mining and agriculture sectors which heavily depend on fast and efficient rail networks.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2021 · 2021-01

Coupling Techniques for Reasoning about Quantum Programs. Quantum software is indispensable for unleashing the super-power of quantum computing. This project aims to develop, for the first time, effective techniques for reasoning about the equivalence of quantum programs, with applications for verifying quantum compilers and quantum cryptographic protocols. The successful development of the outcomes and tools proposed in this project will significantly advance the knowledge on logical and mathematical foundations of quantum programming theory and thereby help Australian industries to build frontier technologies for quantum software engineering – in particular for quantum compilers – as well as establish and preserve their competitive status in the quantum computing era. Field of research: 0802 - Computation Theory and Mathematics Quantum programming is flourishing into a productive research field and competitive international industry. This project will establish a comprehensive framework and verification techniques that will provide efficient algorithms and practical tools to help analyse the correctness of quantum compilers and the security of quantum cryptographic protocols. The outcomes will complement Australia’s strong research success in quantum hardware, consolidate our position in the global research community and benefit Australian ICT industries by contributing essential theoretical support for Australian quantum start-ups. This project addresses the National Science & Research priority goal of improving cybersecurity for all Australians. It will benefit society and the economy and, in particular, will provide individuals with secure quantum technology.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2021 · 2021-01

Solid-state lithium batteries using phase-stabilised electrolytes. This project aims to develop advanced lithium batteries using multifunctional phase-stabilised solid-state electrolytes. Solid-state lithium batteries are the ultimate end goal of the battery industry, owing to their unique features including no fire hazard, high energy and power densities, and long service lifespan. By combining nanofabrication and novel electrolyte materials, the project expects to boost the performances of solid-state lithium batteries, establishing them as an advanced energy technology to meet future energy storage and conversion needs. The newly developed battery technology will be widely used for portable electronics, electric vehicles and smart electricity grids that integrate renewable energy sources. Field of research: 0912 - Materials Engineering It is well recognised that global warming and climate change are mainly caused by the burning of fossil fuels for energy. This project is expected to deliver new solid-state electrolyte materials and technologies for developing advanced solid-state lithium batteries that can reduce the reliance on fossil fuels. Solid-state lithium batteries will represent a quantum leap in battery technology, with a potential to achieve maximum energy density and operational safety for mobile electronic devices, electric vehicles and electrical energy storage for the fast-growing renewable energy industry. The proposed research will develop cutting-edge technologies in materials science, electrochemistry and nanofabrication. The outcomes of this project will therefore create innovations in clean energy, attain a secure and reliable low-emission energy future, open new industries, and generate job opportunities.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2021 · 2021-01

Knowledge discovery and recommendation of multimedia data in healthcare. The project aims to develop tools to abstract/streamline the ever-growing information-rich multimedia contents into easily discoverable knowledges. Advanced multimedia knowledge graph will be first time developed to accurately exploit hidden knowledge for health industry, and served to generate right information recommendation for healthcare professionals (HCP) at the right time. The proposed technology will improve HCPs' communication, keep them up to date, and enhance their speedy reaction to constantly changing situations/diseases, thus reducing poor patient outcomes and unnecessary hospital costs. It will make significant impact to a range of industries, e.g. healthcare, where personalised professional recommendation is demanded. Field of research: 0801 - Artificial Intelligence and Image Processing Knowledge derived from this project will inform the development of the latest healthcare practices and information recommendations at the HCPs, healthcare industry and national levels, thereby contributing to the development of cost-effective treatments and healthcare system efficiency at a large scale. This is an important outcome given that the total spending on health in 2020-21 is estimated to be A$85.5 billion, and a further growth trend in the future, has a larger influence on Australia’s economy than many other financial sectors. For the first time developed in health domain, multimedia knowledge graph will satisfy the needs of cross-modality information extraction and representation in a connected world, and accurately predict dynamic user interests for explainable online recommendation. It will greatly reduce the time and resources spent on searching hot spots and filtering through huge amounts of Internet data. It will also help individuals/organisations or government agencies to promptly identify hot spots and take immediate action to take control of situations and make business decision.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2021 · 2021-01

Wideband Silicon-Based Radio-Frequency Front-End Module for 5G New Radio . The project aims to advance knowledge in radio-frequency integrated circuit design in low-cost silicon technologies, particularly power amplifiers design with enhanced energy efficiency at output power back-off levels. The intended outcome of this project will be a wideband RF front-end module with beam steering capability that can cover the 24-50 GHz spectrum band. This will ultimately enable the creation of a low-cost and energy-efficient 5G millimetre-wave network that could potentially trigger the development of ultra-reliable low latency communications, which is critical for emerging intelligent transportation systems and will maintain Australia’s leadership position in the development of break-through wireless technology. Field of research: 0906 - Electrical and Electronic Engineering This project will produce low-cost and energy-efficient integrated circuits that are essential for the next, major evolution of mobile communication systems. The new systems will enable ultra-high-speed mobile wireless networks that can match the performance of optical fibres at a fraction of the cost. This will consequently provide significant economic and social benefits through faster data transmission and enhanced reliability to many end users in both rural and metropolitan areas, e.g. through remote education, eHealth, agriculture, new mobile business opportunities. This project will strongly enhance the ability of Australian technology companies, including the partner organisation, to offer low-cost, high-performance, innovative commercial products to these significant, global markets. By being ahead of growing demand, this will create new Australian jobs and generate new export income. Finally, this industry-relevant research project will provide training opportunities for the next-generation of job-ready researchers and engineers in Australia with advanced circuit design skills for local companies.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2021 · 2021-01

Room-temperature sodium-sulfur batteries for large-scale energy storage. This project aims to develop room-temperature sodium-sulfur batteries for renewable energy storage. Sodium-sulfur batteries are ideal for large-scale energy storage, owing to high energy density and low cost. However, there are significant challenges in attaining practical sodium-sulfur batteries with high capacity and safety. By developing novel high capacity sulphur cathodes, dendrite-free sodium metal anodes and quasi-solid-state gel polymer electrolytes, this project expects to achieve high-performance sodium-sulfur batteries with high capacity, long cycle life and enhanced safety. Expected benefits will arise from deployment of sodium-sulfur batteries and advances in energy storage technologies that are efficient and cost-effective. Field of research: 0912 - Materials Engineering This project is expected to deliver a new type of rechargeable battery that can store energy at the scale needed for Australia’s electricity grid. The proposed research addresses a significant problem, namely how to affordably, efficiently and safely store and provide energy, particularly for Australia to secure its energy sector, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and integrate more renewable energy into smart electricity networks. In particular, this project will solve a safety problem in room-temperature sodium-sulfur batteries by replacing a flammable electrolyte with quasi solid-state gel polymer electrolytes. Sodium-sulfur batteries have many ideal characteristics for energy storage compared to lithium-ion batteries that are common today. The anticipated research results have strong commercialisation prospects. It is envisaged that the outcomes of this project will create an Australian legacy in more secure and reliable low-emission energy, new business opportunities in renewable energy industries, and job opportunities in the energy and manufacturing sectors.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2021 · 2021-01

Creating custom microenvironments for anion complexation in water. This proposal will exploit a new strategy in the design of anion receptors that function in water by employing the microenvironment formed in aggregates of these molecules. The outcome of the project will be a series of new materials designed to selective bind particular anions, a deeper understanding of how to design novel anion-selective materials and control the assembly of these systems. The materials will have potential uses in processes where the removal of particular anions is required. Potential applications include desalination, radioactive waste remediation, corrosion-resistant coatings and removal of anions during dialysis processes. Field of research: 0303 - Macromolecular and Materials Chemistry This proposal seeks to develop new knowledge in anion complexation (from an initial discovery in Sydney in 2019) that will result in a new series of materials with the ability to selectively remove a particular anion from a mixture of chemical species in water. This technology will be applied across a wide variety of applications. For example, sulfate selective materials could be used to improve dialysis processes whilst removal of chloride from aqueous streams in certain industrial processes can reduce corrosion and improve efficiency. IP generated during the project will be protected by the University of Sydney. The grant will also provide important training opportunities for a postdoctoral research associate, PhD student and honours students working in a cross-disciplinary area including synthesis, supramolecular chemistry techniques, materials chemistry and molecular simulations.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2021 · 2021-01

Transfer Learning for Genome Analysis and Personalised Recommendation. This project aims to improve the accuracy, adaptability, and comprehensiveness of health characteristic predictions and provide personalised recommendations for healthcare service and disease prevention. The deliverables include uncertainty learning and multi-source transfer learning methodologies for predictions based on genome analysis that distils and transfers useful knowledge from multiple sources into an Australian genome analysis model. A federated cross-domain recommender system will be developed to profile individuals and generate personalised recommendations. The outcomes are expected to create a paradigm shift in learning-based prediction and personalised recommendations to support healthcare services in complex environments. Field of research: 0801 - Artificial Intelligence and Image Processing This project capitalizes on Australia’s strengths in science and technology to generate wider economic benefits through improved knowledge translation and commercialisation, and partnerships with industry. It is aligned with the National Science and Research Priority: Health, to have “better models of health care and services that improve outcomes, ..., improved prediction, identification, tracking, prevention and management of emerging local and regional health threats”. The project will revolutionise our understanding of the associations between genes and diseases by developing AI empowered techniques and tools for knowledge transfer, predicting correlations and providing evidence-based recommendations, allowing healthcare professionals to build efficient applications that integrate the frontier of genomics into treatment regimens and better models of health care services for disease prevention. A target area of application is chronic diseases which accounts for 36% of the total burden of disease in Australia and 38% of this cost burden is preventable.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2021 · 2021-01

Genetic Programming for Big Data Analytics. The project aims to extend a powerful machine learning method, called genetic programming and also developing a new concept called Alpha program, for big data analytics. This project expects to generate a new approach by finding a systematic approach to develop gene structures using information theory. By borrowing the best genes from the population of programs, the Alpha program concept will be developed for the first time. The proposed approach aims to enhance genetic programming for many practical problems. I contend that not only finding better tools for big data analytics is in the best interest of machine learning and big data communities, it also provides significant benefits for other communities and industries in Australia. Field of research: 0801 - Artificial Intelligence and Image Processing Australian government and businesses generate huge volumes of data, growing exponentially, yet still lack tools sophisticated enough to translate this interconnected information into specific and actionable knowledge. The sophisticated tool of this project will provide a springboard to develop artificial intelligence (AI)-based solutions that will offer unprecedentedly powerful (in terms of accuracy, reliability, and required time) yet transparent insights into big data, enhancing the decision-making capabilities of a broad range of stakeholders in Australia – from health and finance policymakers through to civil engineering firms. Australian government think tanks have identified data science as a knowledge priority critical to Australia delivering a strong, safe and inclusive digital economy. Outcomes from this project directly support Australia in making this transition. The developed tool will enhance capabilities to develop and supply AI products globally in Australia’s research priority areas of finance, environment, and cybersecurity, delivering significant economic and social benefits.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2021 · 2021-01

Machine learning-based design of triply periodic minimal surface structures. This project aims to develop a new approach to design of new lightweight, crashworthy and manufacturable structures by taking advantage of the latest technologies in computational optimisation, artificial intelligence and additive manufacturing. The study intends to develop a new machine learning-based multiscale design framework to seek optimal triply periodic minimal surface structures, considering fabrication-induced defects and uncertainty. The expected outcome of this project is new methodologies for generating eco-friendly structures with robust mechanical properties in crashing applications. This should provide significant benefits to transport industries by enhancing structural safety and energy saving for next generation vehicles. Field of research: 0913 - Mechanical Engineering Australia nowadays consumes 160 ML petroleum every day, a 9.1% increase over the last five years. It has been shown that each 10% weight reduction leads to a 6-8% fuel saving in the automotive industry and 20% weight reduction results in a 10-12% fuel saving in the aerospace industry to reduce greenhouse gas emission. For this reason, lightweighting vehicles signify a vital area of research as energy crisis and environment concerns deepen recently. The project well aligns with this strategic area and will provide novel design and manufacturing approaches toward this goal. While significantly improved road safety over the last 40 years, road crashes remain a huge financial burden to Australia at over $30 billion per year, which is equivalent to 2% Gross Domestic Product (GDP). For this reason, the Australian government launched the National Road Safety Strategy (NRSS) 2011-2020. Vehicular crashworthiness and roadside barrier systems were identified as the key areas of improvement. This project perfectly fits NRSS and will benefit our society by providing better vehicles and safer road barrier systems.