MONASH UNIVERSITY

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2026 · 2026-01

Quantifying the Economic Causes and Costs of Family and Domestic Violence. This project aims to investigate the economic determinants and impacts of family and domestic violence (FDV) using advanced econometric methods and large longitudinal administrative datasets. It expects to generate new knowledge on how employment, income, and financial security influence FDV, and the effects of FDV on women’s employment, earnings, and health, and children’s health and development. Expected outcomes include a health economics model to quantify the economic burden of FDV and to evaluate prevention and support programs. By addressing gaps in the economics literature, this research should provide significant benefits, such as informing targeted interventions to reduce FDV and mitigate its economic and social harms. Field of research: 3801 - Applied Economics Family and domestic violence (FDV) devastates lives and communities, affecting millions of Australians. It also has serious economic consequences for survivors, their families, and the broader community. FDV can lead to financial insecurity, employment disruption, and intergenerational disadvantage, while straining healthcare, justice, and social services. Despite these impacts, policymakers lack robust Australian evidence on how economic conditions influence FDV and its economic consequences. This project will investigate how economic events, such as job loss, retirement, and wealth gains, influence FDV. It will also assess how FDV affects financial and health outcomes for survivors and their families. This evidence will inform policies that reduce financial barriers to leaving abusive relationships, improve economic security for survivors, and lower FDV risks through better-targeted financial assistance and employment support. The project will also develop a model to quantify the immediate and long-term costs of FDV, providing governments and service providers with reliable cost estimates to guide investment in prevention and support services. To ensure the project findings have maximum impact, the research will be promoted through policy briefs, media engagement, and a dedicated dissemination workshop with government and non-government stakeholders. Findings will also be shared with frontline services and advocacy groups to support real-world application and policy uptake.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2026 · 2026-01

Metal-based complexes and materials that challenge antimicrobial resistance. This research project focuses on the design, development, and application of new bismuth, gallium and indium compounds as antimicrobial and anti-biofilm agents. These metals act as iron mimics in vivo and can exert antimicrobial activity while displaying low systemic toxicity in humans. The project aims to exploit this, and the inability of microbes to easily develop resistance towards metals, to combat bacteria for which modern drugs are rapidly becoming ineffective, as highlighted in the WHO list of critical and priority pathogens. The intended outcome is that efficacy will be driven through advances in synthetic and structural chemistry, discovering the mode of action, and creating anti-infective polymers and gels. Field of research: 3402 - Inorganic Chemistry Alongside the World Health Organisation (WHO), the Australian Government has declared the rapidly rising levels of antimicrobial resistance to be a major challenge. Since antiquity metals have long been known to have antibacterial properties and can be a key alternative to traditional small organic molecules which have been the backbone of antimicrobial discovery, but for which bacterial resistance continues to increase. In this project, we focus on designing and developing new metal-based chemical entities (complexes) which display excellent activity towards bacterial cells while showing little to no toxicity towards mammalian cells. Importantly, we will target bacterial biofilms which allow bacteria to colonise surfaces, and which because of highly evolved protective mechanisms are hard to eradicate. The inhibition and disruption of biofilms will be done by the design of special metal complexes, containing known biofilm busting molecules, and subsequent inclusion in polymers, coatings, and gels. Results of this research will be disseminated through usual presentation channels including conferences, publications and symposia. In addition The Monash Centre to Impact AMR has established effective social and industrial channels with which to publicise research in this field: press releases, social media, podcasting and industry events. Translation will involve both Monash Innovation and the Monash Institute for Medical Engineering, which is hosted in the Engineering Faculty.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2026 · 2026-01

Unravelling Nucleation and Early-Stage Growth of Colloidal Perovskites. Nucleation and early-stage growth processes are crucial in defining the properties of solid materials. However, despite being studied for more than a century, these initial stages of colloidal evolution are still not fully understood. This project will develop a data-science driven smart colloidal nanomaterial synthesis platform to provide insights into these embryonic stages. To demonstrate the platform, we will harness its superior temporal resolution to study the sub-second growth kinetics of perovskite nanocrystals and tailor their structural, optical and electrical properties. Addressing this significant fundamental challenge will directly impact advanced manufacturing technologies in optoelectronic devices, solar cells and catalysis. Field of research: 4018 - Nanotechnology Despite tremendous progress over the past century into the evolution of nanoparticles, what happens in the early stages of their formation remains elusive. Addressing this fundamental question has direct implications in the discovery, design and production of advanced nanoparticles with controlled size, shape, composition and quality. This project will develop an AI-enabled advanced materials synthetic platform that combines microfluidics, machine learning and real-time characterisation with an unprecedented microsecond time resolution - ideal for probing and controlling the early stages of nanoparticle evolution. The emerging perovskite class of nanoparticles will be a major focal point for this project due their fast nucleation and growth, large compositional variance, and significant potential for use in next-generation sensors and optoelectronic devices, including x-ray detectors, photodetectors and solar cells. Beyond these immediate application areas, the project will generate new intellectual property in materials discovery and manufacturing with the potential to advance energy storage and catalysis, drug-discovery, paints and cosmetics - important areas underpinning two of Australia’s national priorities: (i) transitioning to a net zero future and (ii) building a secure and resilient nation. Research translation will be delivered through a university spin-out or industry licensing to maximise economic impact, including job creation.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2026 · 2026-01

How does a cyclin dependent kinase regulate inflammatory responses to RNA? Cytosolic recognition of viral double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) is a highly conserved mechanism for sensing infection across organims. How the immune system effectively distinguishes between viral RNA and cellular RNA remain enigmatic. We have recently performed a genome-wide CRISPR screen which identified novel regulators of cellular dsRNA. This project will use our unique models to address the substantial knowledge gap that exists in understanding the pathways that control immune responses to RNA how dysregulation of these pathways disrupts cellular homeostasis. We bring together expertise with a strong record for impactful outcomes in RNA biology, inflammation and proteomics to address this fundamental biology. Field of research: 3204 - Immunology Innate immunity is the body’s frontline defence against infection, detecting and responding to common features of pathogens, and is highly evolutionarily conserved. However, a key challenge for cells is distinguishing between harmful viruses and their own genetic material, which can share molecular signatures such as double-stranded RNA. This project will investigate a newly identified gene that helps cells strike a balance between mounting an effective antiviral response and avoiding harmful self-reactivity. Understanding this fundamental biology is essential for tackling autoimmune disease, chronic inflammation, and viral susceptibility in human health and agriculture. The research will build Australia’s capability in advanced immunology and RNA biology by bringing together expertise in genetics, molecular and cell biology. This fundamental discovery research has the potential to support Australia’s biotechnology sector by leading, in the longer term, to the development of new tools and innovations. It aligns with multiple priorities of Australia's RNA Blueprint (Department of Industry). By advancing foundational knowledge it could inform development of RNA-based therapeutics and novel immunomodulatory drugs, global markets valued at USD$12.2B and USD$217.7B dollars, respectively. The findings will be disseminated through scientific publications, presentations, news, social media, and public lectures, enhancing Australia’s reputation and guiding future research.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2026 · 2026-01

Deciphering the role of granzyme K in immune and organismal aging. This project seeks to elucidate the role of granzyme K, a serine protease markedly elevated in aged T cells, in driving immune and organismal aging. Leveraging a well-established colony of aged granzyme K knockout mice, a multidisciplinary network of collaborators, and extensive expertise in studying immune and organismal function both in vitro and in vivo, this research aims to uncover whether this 'hallmark of aging' actively contributes to the biological aging process. The anticipated outcomes include a deeper understanding of: (i) the mechanisms underlying aging, (ii) the connection between immune aging and organismal decline, and (iii) potential therapeutic avenues to reprogram or rejuvenate the biological decline that occurs with age. Field of research: 3202 - Clinical Sciences This project addresses a critical gap in our understanding of biological aging by investigating the role of Granzyme K (GzmK), a pro-inflammatory molecule markedly elevated in aged mice and humans. Although implicated in immune and organismal aging, no direct evidence currently demonstrates a causal role for GzmK. This study will use advanced genetic and cellular tools to determine whether GzmK actively contributes to the ageing process and to what extent it shapes immune function and tissue integrity over time. As Australia’s population ages, it becomes increasingly important to understand the basic biological mechanisms that drive aging and age-related decline. By identifying molecular factors that influence immune ageing and tissue homeostasis, this research will contribute new knowledge with long-term potential to inform strategies that promote resilience in later life, support productivity, and reduce dependency. Findings will be shared within academia through high impact publications and presentation at national and international conferences. Beyond academia, we will make our data publicly available, we will engage the public through lectures, interviews and social media, and establish collaborations within relevant research networks, and industry. This foundational work aligns with national priorities to understand the human life cycle, including aging to ultimately support thriving communities (Priority 2), and lays the groundwork for future translational advances.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2026 · 2026-01

Structurally-informed generative modelling of brain function. This project aims to understand how brain structure relates to brain function in order to process information. This project will generate new knowledge in brain sciences by using state of the art computational modelling and neuroimaging methods like functional and diffusion magnetic resonance imaging. Expected outcomes of this project will provide novel technologies to study the communication between brain regions with wide ranging implications for how brain processes information, development of brain inspired artificial intelligence systems, and brain machine interfaces. The benefits of this project will be richer understanding of human brain functions, breakthrough new neuro-technologies and training of the next-generation of researchers. Field of research: 5202 - Biological Psychology This project will develop new modelling technologies to understand how brain structure supports functional information processing. By combining advanced computational modelling with cutting-edge magnetic resonance imaging, it will deliver a generative framework that explains how structural pathways shape neural communication. The outcomes will advance neuroscience and support innovation beyond academia. Potential applications include informing the design of brain-machine interfaces, assistive technologies, and future biologically inspired computing systems. Through open-source software and integration with established tools like SPM, the methods will be accessible to industry partners, and imaging technology developers, including MRI manufacturers aiming to improve data quality and hardware design. The project will also build national capacity by training a new generation of interdisciplinary researchers at the intersection of brain imaging, computational neuroscience, and modelling.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2026 · 2026-01

Inter-organ communication during exercise and aging. This project aims to examine how organisms exchange biological material between tissues to promote healthy aging. Extracellular vesicles (EVs), lipid bilayer-delimited particles released from cells, facilitate inter-organ communication of molecular cargo. EVs can promote cellular senescence that can increase with aging. Conversely, exercise can enrich EVs with inhibitors of cellular senescence, thereby slowing the aging process. This is dependent upon the molecular cargo, cellular origin and tissue destination of the EVs, processes completely unknown at present. We expect to discover the mechanisms of action of EVs in exercise and aging, thereby generate new information to develop strategies impacting upon Australia’s ageing workforce. Field of research: 3208 - Medical Physiology Aging productively will arrest the economic and social cost of aging. It is now accepted that exercise can prevent or slow unproductive aging, but the precise mechanisms underpinning these observations is unclear. Our work proposes to clarify the field. There are several benefits that will arise from this work. This information will be an invaluable resource to the cell biology community world-wide. Moreover, we expect that our work will ultimately lead to the development of ‘senolytics’, small molecules that slow the aging process. This is of particular importance to the livestock industry. Livestock, raised for their economic benefit to humans and are culled from the population once their production declines. We lack knowledge about the age-related morbidities and causes of death that afflict livestock due to natural aging. By raising awareness of the overall quality of life and ongoing health of individual livestock animals, we can potentially increase production into older life stages, leading to decreased costs to farmers and, importantly, improved welfare for the animals themselves, increasing environmental sustainability. In addition, globally, we face the challenge of ‘living well’ and fostering communities that thrive, with sustainable, inclusive solutions that drive better economic, social and cultural outcomes. Putting a spotlight on the mechanisms of the benefit of exercise in human aging will address the challenge of living well.

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

In situ studies of the immune synapse Category: Medical Research

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

Artificial intelligence-enabled quantitative atherosclerosis imaging by... Category: Medical Research

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2026 · 2026-01

Investigating the neuronal bases of transcranial brain stimulation. Transcranial Brain Stimulation (TBS) is a non-invasive technique in which low-intensity currents are delivered through electrodes positioned on the person’s scalp. Recently, TBS techniques have gained much attention for management of various conditions such as age-related cognitive decline, overeating, gambling and alcoholism. However, we do not know 'where', ‘when’ and 'how' TBS modulates information encoding by neurons to lead to the behavioural outcome. We will examine the effects of TBS on the activity of single neurons (in frontal cortical and sub-cortical regions) and cognitive abilities, while monkeys perform cognitive tasks. This proposed study will elucidate the underlying neuronal mechanisms of TBS effects on cognitive functions. Field of research: 3209 - Neurosciences Transcranial Brain Stimulation (TBS) is a non-invasive technique in which low-intensity currents are delivered through electrodes positioned on the person’s scalp. Recently, TBS techniques have gained much attention for managing various conditions such as age-related behavioural and physical decline, overeating and gambling. Devices for delivering TBS have also become commercially available, and there is a growing interest in public for using TBS for improving mood, boost learning, and among young adults for enhancing social interactions and improving performance. However, we do not know 'where', ‘when’ and 'how' TBS modulates information encoding by neurons to lead to the behavioural outcome. Moreover, there has been great variability in the reported effects of TBS. These have hindered proper examination of TBS safety and standardization of application for specific conditions and age groups. Here, we will explore the core neural processes underlying the effects of TBS on cognitive function by recording activity of neurons, in different brain regions, before and after application of the TBS. Our findings will inform various fields of science and industry that explore the development of safe techniques to improve various aspects of social life and mitigate problems associated with aging, compulsive behaviours such as family violence, and gambling. Our findings will also help to establish and standardize the TBS protocols and safety guidelines.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2026 · 2026-01

Empowering households in resource-efficient sustainability transitions . This project aims to investigate how households can play an active role in system change toward resource-efficiency across energy, water, food and waste. Urban resource inefficiency is a complex and significant problem. Expected outcomes are the first national picture of household resource efficiency, identification of intervention points in context and new policy and service provision pathways. The team also expects to produce a novel transitions conceptual framework. Expected environmental, economic and social benefits will be delivered by working with householders, policy makers, and government and industry stakeholders to identify practical solutions for householders, and knowledge to support policy makers and service providers. Field of research: 4410 - Sociology Transitioning to a resource efficient household sector is crucial but requires societal and policy innovation. However, we have limited knowledge of which households are keen to be resource efficient and why, how they engage with interlinked systems (energy, food, waste and water), and how to support their transition. The research will contribute long term solutions to the interlinked sustainability challenges that Australia is currently experiencing. The project will contribute environmental, economic and social benefits to Australia by identifying resource efficient strategies and pathways for householders, community organisations, markets and policy makers. The research will deliver practical and affordable bottom up strategies to build resource efficient households, cities and towns. The project will generate useful information for householders, policy makers and practitioners seeking to promote energy efficiency, water efficiency, waste reduction and household resilience. Adoption pathways will be developed by bringing together householders with local and state level policy actors and service providers. The findings will be disseminated through presentations to government departments and industry forums. Social media friendly documentaries, news articles and plain English summaries of findings will be developed to share findings with the public.

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

Multi-modal generative models of brain function Category: Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences (HASS) Research

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2026 · 2026-01

Metabolic and competitive diversity of an omnipresent bacterium. This project aims to use systems biology approaches to define the metabolic and competitive diversity of Klebsiella oxytoca, a bacterium relevant to the veterinary, medical and biotech industries, and a coloniser of the mammalian gut where it can inhibit key pathogens. Expected outcomes include; 1) the first systematic evaluation of the impact of metabolic diversity on inter-species competition, which should change the way researchers study and understand bacterial communities; 2) knowledge and resources that should vastly improve our understanding of K. oxytoca to optimise industrial processes and prevent disease. It will also contribute to training Australia’s future biology data analysts, who are key to a thriving new age economy. Field of research: 3107 - Microbiology Klebsiella oxytoca is a bacterium of interest to the biotechnology and agriculture industries, and an emerging veterinary and human pathogen. This project will fill fundamental gaps in our knowledge about K. oxytoca genetic and metabolic diversity and competitive diversity against other bacteria. This study is a strategic basic science proposal: the new knowledge it will generate has the potential to lead to future economic and environmental benefits for Australia by changing the way that researchers understand, model and manipulate microbial communities for human and planetary benefit e.g. to improve soil or animal health. Direct outputs will include a unique collection of Australian K. oxytoca DNA sequences and high-quality metabolic models that will become valuable resources for both academic and industry-based researchers e.g. to assist with optimising production of industrially-relevant compounds or to promote soil health through nitrogen fixation. These resources will be deposited in public archives to ensure their findability and accessibility beyond academia. Key findings will also be described in plain language open access reports, which we will directly promote to the broader community, relevant stakeholders in industry, and the agriculture, animal and environmental health sectors.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2026 · 2026-01

Revealing the mechanisms of cargo routing through the cellular supply chain. Just as cities rely on efficient supply chains to distribute goods, cells use complex delivery networks to transport vital cargo. This research will use advanced microscopy and artificial intelligence to explore how cells sort and move essential molecules within their internal transportation system. We aim to uncover how different cargoes are directed toward their correct destinations—or escape from the expected routes altogether. This project will provide fundamental insights into cellular cargo sorting, with the potential to improve treatments for diseases including cancer and Alzheimer’s, to develop more effective strategies for delivering mRNA vaccines and therapeutics, and to impede viral infections. Field of research: 3208 - Medical Physiology We live in an era of vaccinations where delivery of molecules such as mRNA is life saving. One of the bottlenecks is cargo delivery of molecules by crossing the single cell boundary, termed endosomal escape. Past technological limitations have restricted our understanding of this process. This project will leverage on cutting-edge microscopy to decipher the mechanisms and biophysical signatures of endosomal escape. The planned research will expand Australia's knowledge base and establish leading research capability through development of novel methodologies leveraging on fundamental knowledge generated. This project is seeking to deliver concrete economic benefits through the direct creation of new start-ups based on licensing and application of generated intellectual property of cellular delivery tools stemming from fundamental insights gained. The project will provide an excellent research training for early career researchers in a field that is expanding - advanced microscopy and machine learning/ deep learning based image analytics and will forge strong links with international leaders of the field, benefiting Australia and positively impacting Australia's reputation in cutting-edge research. The methodologies developed in this project will enable broader collaboration with the biotechnology industry with drug delivery as a major focus and offers rich venues of commercialization, leading to enhanced economic growth as well as better health benefits through innovation.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2026 · 2026-01

The genetic basis of sporopollenin, the most durable biopolymer known. This project aims to characterize the genetic bases of the biosynthesis of sporopollenin, the most durable biopolymer known to man. The project expects to generate new knowledge of the evolution and biosynthesis of sporopollenin by applying comparative genomics and genetics to a unique model species, Marchantia polymorpha. Expected outcomes include an elucidation of the genetic basis for one of the key morphological adaptations for life on land. This should provide significant benefits including the ability to manipulate sporopollenin biosynthesis, which could lead to diverse applications of this biopolymer, including as a possible avenue to carbon sequestration. Field of research: 3105 - Genetics Sporopollenin, the coating of spores and pollen, provides protection from both desiccation and ultraviolet radiation. Sporopollenin is the most durable biopolymer known, with early land plant fossils consisting of 450- million-year-old sporopollenin. At present, our genetic knowledge of sporopollenin biosynthesis is limited to the genes involved in the formation of precursor molecules produced by specialised secretory cells. However, events related to extracellular crosslinking are not yet genetically characterised in any land plant. This proposal aims to fully characterise the sporopollenin biosynthetic pathway, by identifying the genes that control its biosynthesis in a spore producing land plant, the model liverwort Marchantia. Fundamental knowledge of the sporopollenin biosynthetic pathway could be applied to manipulate aspects of sporopollenin biosynthesis and lead to the production of novel biopolymers for medical or industrial applications. Climate change is an existential threat to future generations and given the trajectory of atmospheric CO2 concentration it may be necessary to conceive of additional approaches to carbon sequestration. Due to its durability and carbon-rich composition, production of sporopollenin at an agricultural or industrial scale may be a viable carbon sequestration option.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2026 · 2026-01

Tracking Islamophobia and its impacts on Australian Muslims lives. The project aims to establish a longitudinal cohort study to identify Australian Muslims experiences of interpersonal Islamophobia and potential links to social, economic, and mental health outcomes. It will also longitudinally monitor social media, news, international events and associated anti-Muslim sentiment, to establish potential links with Islamophobic attacks and discrimination. It will be the first longitudinal cohort study to examine the influence of interpersonal incidences of Islamophobia and its effect of Muslims lives. Outcomes include evidence on the impacts of Islamophobia on Australian Muslims social, economic, and health outcomes, and inform efforts to reduce the incidence and harms of Islamophobia. Field of research: 4410 - Sociology Nearly 1 million Muslims contribute positively to Australian society, yet Islamophobic attacks, including physical assaults and vandalism, appear to be increasing. At its worst, Islamophobia underpinned the killing of 51 people in the Christchurch Mosque attacks by an Australian. Research suggests Islamophobia in Australia is under-reported, with little evidence of its impact on Muslims' educational, economic, and mental health outcomes. This project will establish Australia's first nation-wide longitudinal cohort study examining Islamophobia incidents and their impacts on Australian Muslims over time. A parallel longitudinal study of anti-Muslim sentiment in social media and news reports will establish relationships to interpersonal Islamophobia.The project will reveal new knowledge on the nature and impact of Islamophobia on Australian Muslims and its relationship to media and global events. Benefits include findings that will enable targeted government and community resources to address Islamophobia's mental health, social, economic, and educational impacts. The POs will benefit from evidence-based data on the nature of Islamophobia and how to better support their communities. New evidence generated will be communicated via strong partnerships within the Muslim community, allowing dissemination of results and recommendations to impacted communities and the broader Australian community through education programs, events, general audience publications, and exhibitions.

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

How does a cyclin dependent kinase regulate inflammatory responses to... Category: Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences (HASS) Research

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2026 · 2026-01

Defining how pluripotency is controlled by live imaging of RNA dynamics. This project will use real-time live imaging techniques to study how pluripotent cells localise RNAs in single cells of living embryos to maintain their capacity to produce any type of specialised cell of the body. This work is anticipated to reveal definitive RNAs and proteins that drive pluripotency, and lead a paradigm shift in our approach to study pluripotency and embryogenesis using less invasive molecular and cellular techniques. The benefits of this research include new knowledge on animal reproductive traits leveraged to optimise the breeding of endangered species and livestock, as well as findings that will support work into Australia’s decreasing fertility rates and in pluripotency in adult tissue regeneration as Australians age. Field of research: 3109 - Zoology This project aims to develop innovative imaging technologies to trace the location of RNAs inside cells of the living embryo and stem cells as they transition towards specialised cells. Errors in these early steps of tissue formation can profoundly shape a person’s lifelong ability to carry out essential tasks for everyday living. This project aligns with the Government’s investment of $150M to develop innovative and effective stem cell technologies by creating new specialised cells in a dish to inform future restorative approaches to replace damaged cells. The advancements in knowledge generated by this project will be of benefit for the testing of embryos prior to IVF cycles and the safe, efficient, and large-scale production of stem cells may also ultimately deliver an answer to the urgent demand for organ transplants in Australia. Therefore, potential benefits of this project include the facilitation of new jobs, safety standards, technology efficiency, industry development, and informed consent of RNA research. Moreover, it will create new equal job opportunities, particularly for the younger diverse generation of Australia. We will maximise knowledge exchange, translation, use, and adoption of RNA-based technologies to control embryo and stem cell quality by engaging with stakeholders, collaborators, public, educational institutions, industry, media, and policymakers through newsletters, social media, press releases, public talks, podcasts, and open days.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2026 · 2026-01

Integrative neuroscience of perceptual decision-making. The transformation of sensory input into goal-directed action is central to cognitive function and is known as perceptual decision-making. This project will forge links between scales (network to synapse) and species (human to rodent) to understand how the dynamic equilibrium between excitatory and inhibitory inputs in the brain (known as E/I balance) shape fundamental properties of decision-making, such as evidence accumulation. We will employ a common behavioural paradigm across both species and leverage cutting-edge techniques in humans (MRS; EEG, computational modelling) and rodents (optogenetics, EEG, computational modelling). We will reveal the causal mechanisms by which manipulations of E/I balance impact evidence accumulation. Field of research: 5202 - Biological Psychology Perceptual decision-making involves brain processes in which noisy sensory information is integrated over time to allow observers to make decisions between choice options. It is a cornerstone process on which cognition is built. Without efficient integration of sensory information to guide adaptive choice, behaviour becomes erratic and maladaptive. This project leverages cutting-edge techniques from human and rodent neuroscience to identify the neural mechanisms that allow organisms to make efficient perceptual decisions. This is a basic science project that will significantly advance knowledge in the cognitive neuroscience of decision-making; a topic of significant interest to fields as disparate as economics, healthcare, climate change, safety and defence. The identification of critical behavioural and neural metrics of decision-making will in the longer-term facilitate applications to these areas. For example, the development of mobile systems that record brain activity and algorithms that can track dynamic fluctuations in decision-making signals, may avert human performance errors in workplace settings (air traffic controllers; airport baggage screeners). Research outcomes will be promoted via open access data and code repositories for global download and via seminars and workshops to disparate healthcare, biotech and industry groups.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2026 · 2026-01

SNIFF, CRAVE, BITE: How Smell Drives Feeding and Physiology. This project investigates how the sense of smell influences food-seeking behaviour and physiologic responses. While it is well known that smells like freshly baked bread can increase the "desire for eating", how the brain uses smell to control appetite, food preferences and even influences physiology is not fully understood. This research will explore how smell interacts with brain circuits responsible for hunger and fullness, aiming to uncover new insights into the link between the olfactory sense, feeding behaviour and physiology. The findings could lead to new strategies for managing animal welfare, reproduction, pest control, human conditions related to unhealthy eating habits, improving health and quality of life of various species. Field of research: 3109 - Zoology Smells like freshly baked bread can trigger a desire to eat, however the way the brain uses smell to control food preferences, appetite, and even bodily functions is not fully understood. This project addresses a critical gap in understanding the link between olfaction, eating behaviour, and physiology by exploring how smell interacts with brain circuits for hunger and fullness. The research could deliver significant benefits for Australia. Economically, it may lead to innovative strategies for agriculture, animal welfare, conservation, and pest control, boosting productivity. Environmentally, it may help animals adapt to changing conditions, such as after bushfires or floods, by linking smell to novel feeding strategies. Culturally, it could deepen our understanding of how smell influences common feeding patterns, promoting social cohesion and social tolerance. To maximise impact, findings will be shared in the community through workshops, media, and online resources. This will ensure our research is widely understood and translated into practical applications, such as improved animal management or public health strategies. It will also enhance Australia’s international competitiveness in neuroscience, support various industries, and provide training opportunities in cutting-edge techniques, contributing to the nation’s health, wellbeing, and economic growth.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2026 · 2026-01

Ascertaining the explosion mechanism of stripped-envelope supernovae. This project aims to ascertain the explosion mechanisms of massive stars by investigating stripped-envelope supernovae as an ideal diagnostic laboratory. This project expects to generate new synthetic observational signatures based on 3D hydrodynamic and magnetohydrodynamic supernova models using 3D Monte Carlo radiative transfer to enable a comparison with observed supernova light curves, spectra and polarimetry. Expected outcomes of this project include better diagnostics for the energetics, explosion asymmetries and mixing in supernovae of massive stars and hence the nature of the supernova engine. This should provide significant benefits both for large-scale transient surveys and for high-quality observations of individual supernovae. Field of research: 5101 - Astronomical Sciences Australia is investing hundreds of millions of dollars in astronomical facilities that observe the sky across the electromagnetic spectrum. One of the key missions of these facilities is to observe dynamic phases in the lives of stars (transients) in large-scale surveys. This allows us to piece together their life cycles - which far exceed the span of human history for individual stars - and is crucial for understanding how stars enriched the universe with chemical elements beyond primordial hydrogen and helium to provide the building blocks for our existence. This proposal aims to provide theoretical models to guide the interpretation of the observed transients and extract information from them about the physics of stellar explosions, thereby maximising the use of substantial Australian investments into astronomical instruments. The proposal intends to also involve graduate and undergraduate students and train them in techniques of computer-based modelling and data analysis, based on broad questions as found in astronomy and obtain skills well sought-after in the Science, Engineering, Mathematics and Technology (STEM) field as well as in industry. Many of our graduates move to expert positions with Australian technology companies or government positions such as the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) or in the defence and national security sectors.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2026 · 2026-01

Semiconductor Photoisomerisation - A New class of Switchable Materials . This project aims to introduce a fundamentally novel approach to semiconductor device fabrication through a light- induced structural isomerization process. This allows to write and read information into a semiconductor with light and erase it with heat. We will explore the chemical universality of the approach and benchmark physical performance parameters to showcase its applicability for commercial semiconductor device fabrication. Expected outcomes include transformative advancements in semiconductor applications, with potential impacts on fabrication cost, energy consumption and environmental sustainability. The project aligns with Australian government priorities in energy, advanced manufacturing and environmental impact. Field of research: 5102 - Atomic, Molecular and Optical Physics This project focuses on a novel approach to semiconductor fabrication using a material recently discovered by our research team. This material allows information to be written and read optically. This method could circumvent the expensive and resource-intensive photolithography process currently used in the semiconductor industry, offering higher spatial resolutions and lower costs. We aim to expand this concept to other materials, scrutinize its true potential, and comprehend the underlying atomic processes. The new materials will further underpin advancements in neuromorphic and optical computing. These technologies promise to solve specific computational problems more efficiently than traditional silicon-based electronics. Australia stands to benefit economically, environmentally, and strategically from this research. Developing a high-tech workforce, attracting international collaborations, and generating valuable intellectual property are immediate benefits. Long-term gains include reducing energy consumption and supporting global advancements in artificial intelligence, addressing global challenges like climate change. While there is no established semiconductor industry in Australia, this research positions the country to contribute significantly to global technological advancements, potentially leading to the establishment of local semiconductor capabilities.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2026 · 2026-01

Firm closures and layoffs: The impact on Australian families. This project aims to provide new insights into the relationship between economic conditions, firm operations and performance as well as the economic, social and emotional outcomes of the families affected by economic uncertainty. The project expects to identify and quantify the impacts of economic uncertainty and job loss on health, healthcare use, welfare uptake, re-training, employment trajectories, plus outcomes for spouses and children, in addition to impacts on family dissolution. This evidence will guide policies to identify at-risk firms, propose countermeasures to negative impacts and ensure government spending is directed in a timely manner to those most in need, so that families and communities remain resilient to economic shocks. Field of research: 3801 - Applied Economics This project investigates how Australian firms, workers, and families are affected by major economic shocks — including rising interest rates, natural disasters and global trade disruptions. While headline figures track business closures and unemployment, policymakers lack detailed, causal evidence on firms’ adjustment strategies and how these affect workers’ mental health, financial security, and family wellbeing. This project addresses that gap using linked employer–employee administrative data and innovative methods to trace outcomes at the firm, individual, and household level. The research will benefit Australians by identifying which firms, regions, and populations are most vulnerable during economic downturns, and which policies — such as employment services, disaster recovery payments, and mental health support — are most effective in reducing harm. Findings will inform more targeted and cost-effective policy responses, helping governments support at-risk firms and workers and build more resilient communities. The efficiency gains identified here will allow Australian policy makers to use these saved resources for other important areas of fiscal budgets, enhancing benefit to Australians. To maximise impact, the research will be translated through policy briefs, media, and presentations to government stakeholders with support from our research advisory group.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2026 · 2026-01

Self-Driving Labs for Data-Driven Design of Polymer Dispersions. This project aims at designing a self-driving autonomous lab that will enable continuous high-throughput synthesis of polymer emulsions, significantly accelerating capacity and enabling high volume and precise data generation. In conjunction with robotic performance evaluation, the project expects to use machine learning to rapidly optimise emulsion polymerisation towards greener paint formulations. An expected outcome of the research will be a much more rational design of materials based on holistic large data sets, revolutionising materials development and delivering a significant competitive advantage to Australian industry by transformation of traditional chemical research and development into a fully data-driven digitalised domain. Field of research: 3403 - Macromolecular and Materials Chemistry Chemical research needs to transition from traditional manual, analogue and slow data generation to fully digitalised autonomous high-throughput data generation in order to harness the benefits of machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI). Only if methods are developed that allow to generate high-quality data on scale, ML/AI can unfold its potential and deliver a significant acceleration in materials development. We will deliver on this objective by designing and using a self-driving laboratory for autonomous heterogeneous polymerisations. With this, we will increase the number of samples available for testing from one to envisaged ten samples per day. Further, we will combine this acceleration with robotic performance testing, multiplying this synthesis ability to hundreds of formulations being tested fully automatically. This will set the data basis for advanced ML-optimisations, for the first time bridging chemical synthesis with rational materials property design, a step that to date is not accessible. We will use this advantage to develop more sustainable paint formulations which will not only contribute towards a net zero future, but also deliver a significant economic and environmental advantage to the Australian polymer materials sector. The results will provide a blueprint for synthesis automation in this area, and we will communicate results broadly to the public and industrial stakeholders via seminars and publications to foster future developments.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2026 · 2026-01

In situ discoveries at the immune synapse. Immune cells form synapses to kill malignant and pathogen infected cells. The formation of the immunological synapse is underpinned by a complex array of biological macromolecules that collectively influence immune and target cell destiny. To understand the organisation of molecules within immune synapse we need to directly visualise the immune synapse in situ and in sufficient detail to identify the major protein components. To achieve this we will use cryogenic electron tomography and proteomics to identify and understand the spatial arrangement of key molecules present in the synapse. The work will provide new and long-sought after insights into an immunity-related process that is required for life. Field of research: 3101 - Biochemistry and Cell Biology The immune system is essential for mammalian life. We currently have an incomplete understanding of how immune cells identify and destroy infected or damaged cells. This paucity of knowledge hampers the development of new approaches to alter the potency and / or the targeting of an immune response. Using state-of-the-art imaging approaches we will address this critical knowledge gap and visualise the molecular details of key components of immune cells and their targets as they interact with one another. The knowledge we gain will inform our understand of the basic functioning of the immune system as well as other areas of biology where cells interact in dynamic fashion with one another. This will result in research outcomes that will reach beyond academia, for example in the context of new techniques that will be applicable broadly across the life sciences, and in informing research translation (e.g. in the context of development of new biologics or re-programmed immune cells).