MONASH UNIVERSITY

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2017 · 2017-01

Virtual reality for planning of green urban water infrastructure. This project aims to research the planning-technical-social dynamics of Water Sensitive Urban Design (WSUD) infrastructure. WSUD management has become financially and logistically unsustainable due to major urban growth and a rapid uptake in WSUD assets. Solving this problem is, however, complex, as stakeholders have conflicting needs and tacit knowledge that is difficult to quantify. Using emerging virtual reality technology, participatory planning and operational models, this project intends to improve WSUD modelling science through integrated modelling. The anticipated outcome is more holistic and economically efficient planning of WSUD layouts in future cities. This is expected to address growing concerns about adequately managing these systems and ensure that they deliver intended environmental protection, liveability and public health benefits. Field of research: 0905 - Civil Engineering

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2017 · 2017-01

Time series classification for new-generation Earth observation satellites. This project aims to develop time series classification methods for satellite images, to produce accurate temporal land-cover maps. Latest generation satellites have just begun imaging Earth frequently, completely, in high-resolution, and at no charge to end-users – an unprecedented opportunity to monitor the flux of our planet's systems. However, time series classification techniques do not scale to handle such wealth of data. The project anticipates its time series technologies will be applicable in agriculture planning, fire prevention, and disaster mapping, and that substantially greater value can be derived from significant investments into Earth Observation programmes. Field of research: 0801 - Artificial Intelligence and Image Processing

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2017 · 2017-01

Orchestrating cellular processes by engineering silicon nanowire architectures. This project aims to improve gene transport by creating low-cost, easily implemented, programmable and controllable silicon nanowire-mediated transfection technology, and to demonstrate high-throughput, parallel trafficking of bioactive payloads. Success would enable the design and fabrication of nano–bio interfaces with closely controlled geometry and architecture, to orchestrate specific cellular processes such as cellular reprogramming, adhesion, morphology, and differentiation with unprecedented efficiency and predictability. The advance could lead to breakthroughs in fundamental cellular studies, and better understanding of cell behaviour, function and fate. Field of research: 1007 - Nanotechnology

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2017 · 2017-01

Engineering suspended particle sprays through controlled cavitation. This project aims to use cavitation to engineer particle size in sprays of micronised particles suspended in a propellant, and develop a physical mechanism for this process. Understanding how cavitation affects the size of agglomerates in the liquid phase and droplet size in a spray is critical to developing spray devices that require precise control over the final particle size. This will be achieved through high-resolution optical imaging techniques and synchrotron X-ray diagnostics. This project is expected to provide physical insight with applications for inhaled and topical pharmaceutical sprays, and industry spray drying of food products. Field of research: 0915 - Interdisciplinary Engineering

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2017 · 2017-01

High purity formaldehyde production from carbon oxides. This project aims to investigate the detailed reaction mechanism of a green chemistry route of producing formaldehyde by reducing carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide in liquid phase. Formaldehyde is a widely used feedstock for chemical industries, but is not considered a green chemical because it is produced using natural gas as the feed, which loses over 61 per cent of energy. This project will maximise the yield and purity of the product, making it commercially viable. This project’s method for producing formaldehyde is expected to reduce the capital cost and energy losses. Field of research: 0904 - Chemical Engineering

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2017 · 2017-01

Challenges to organocatalysis. This project aims to use organocatalysis to generate organocatalytic C=C insertion, C-H functionalisation and carbonyl ylide/1,3-dipolar cycloaddition reactions. Organocatalysis has transformed the way chemical synthesis is performed. However, in the early years the focus of this discipline has primarily been enolate type chemistry, and more challenging reactions, such as those involving carbenoid intermediates, have not been contemplated. Previously such reactions have only been achieved using transition metal catalysts. This project addresses this limitation, allowing the strengths of organocatalysis (abundance and diversity, access to enantiopurity, elemental sustainability) to affect the broader landscape of catalysis. This approach could present an opportunity to examine reactivity patterns, stereoselectivity and cascade design and may lead to new reaction technologies. Field of research: 0305 - Organic Chemistry

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2017 · 2017-01

Investigating the structure of a T cell immune checkpoint molecule. This project aims to investigate the basic structure and function of a key co-receptor expressed on T cells, known as lymphocyte activation gene-3. T cells play a role in the immune system but must be managed to prevent autoimmunity. Insight into the function of the lymphocyte activation gene-3 function can be used to tailor immunotherapeutics to treat a variety of diseases, including cancer. Functionality of the T cell receptor is determined by utilising structural biology and cellular immunology techniques. The impact of this project effects the development of innovative T cell immunomodulatory agents, improving the health and quality of life of the Australian population. Field of research: 0601 - Biochemistry and Cell Biology

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2017 · 2017-01

CogChip: development of a targeted genotyping chip for executive function. This project aims to use DNA sequencing technology to identify the genetics of executive function. Our capacities to focus on a task at hand, to filter distractions and to inhibit unwanted impulses, are collectively referred to as executive functions. Executive function varies on a continuum in the general population across the lifespan, with individual differences largely due to differences in underlying genetics. The project proposes to leverage this knowledge to develop a customised genotyping chip, which may find application for prediction of individual differences in executive ability across multiple settings including education and industry. Expected outcomes for the project will include breakthrough insights into the biology of cognition, and a genetic read-out of individual differences in executive ability, which could have broad application including the potential to facilitate the targeting of cognitive, educational or workplace training for those most at risk of adverse outcomes. Field of research: 1701 - Psychology

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2017 · 2017-01

How does orography enhance precipitation in Australian wintertime storms? This project aims to employ targeted field observations, numerical simulations and new satellite capabilities to identify the dynamical and microphysical mechanisms that enhance and redistribute precipitation across the alpine regions of south eastern Australia and Tasmania. These observations will be used to evaluate operational numerical weather simulations specifically focusing on quantitative precipitation forecasts and estimates. The observations will also be used to extend known biases in the national gridded precipitation analysis that are a result of the complex mountain terrain. This identification of the physical processes that enhance and redistribute precipitation over the alpine regions across south east Australia and Tasmania will lead to better precipitation estimates and forecasts and better water management. Field of research: 0401 - Atmospheric Sciences

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2017 · 2017-01

Undergraduate degrees from vocational institutions. This project aims to identify and understand the equity of broadening participation to undergraduate degrees through the recent expansion of higher education in vocational institutions. The intended outcomes will provide relevant knowledge about the effects of this expansion on creating opportunities for more equity groups to obtain degrees and for the higher education system to better drive national innovation and economic restructuring in ways that give a fairer chance to all equity groups to participate. Field of research: 1301 - Education Systems

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2017 · 2017-01

Wearable device design with continuous cuff-less blood pressure measurement. This project aims to develop a non-invasive, body-worn device able to monitor blood pressure (BP) continuously in real time. The project proposes new sensing techniques for blood pressure measurement based on capturing pulse transit time in the central arteries using a combination of electrical bio-impedance, electrocardiogram (ECG), and continuous wave radar. Coupled with other vital parameters including heart rate, heart rhythm, respiratory rate, and oxygen saturation, it is expected that the device will enable remote monitoring with wireless connectivity and with many advantages over the traditional wired monitoring methods currently used in healthcare environments and it will assist with more effective prevention, home care and treatment. Field of research: 0903 - Biomedical Engineering

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2017 · 2017-01

P-band soil moisture sensing from space. This project aims to develop radiative transfer models to demonstrate that a P-band radiometer capability can remotely sense the top ~15cm layer of soil moisture, through a series of tower and airborne field experiments. Timely soil moisture information on this near-surface layer is critical to improved water management for food production in the face of extreme climate variability. Current satellite technologies are limited to the top ~5cm layer of soil using an L-band radiometer. This project is expected to give farmers the soil moisture data they need to optimise their available water resources to maximise food production Field of research: 0909 - Geomatic Engineering

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2017 · 2017-01

How enhancers regulate T cell differentiation and function. This project aims to identify the molecular mechanisms that regulate the activity of transcriptional enhancers needed for effective immune cell differentiation. Adaptive immune cell activation starts a programme of differentiation that acquires and maintains lineage-specific effector function. Using a multidisciplinary approach including cellular and chromatin biology, advanced bioinformatics, targeted genome editing and nanotechnology, this project expects to provide insights into non-coding regulatory element reprogramming and control of immune cell function and memory with implications for understanding general cellular differentiation. Field of research: 0604 - Genetics

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2017 · 2017-01

Domain-specific visual languages for big data analytics applications. This project aims to invent domain-specific visual languages and support model-driven engineering based infrastructure so domain experts can specify, generate and apply complex data analytics and visualisation techniques. Many domains, including intelligent transport, business intelligence, and population health, need more effective “big data” analytics and visualisation. A challenge is to combine detailed domain knowledge – what the data means and what it can be used for – with sophisticated, scalable computational techniques to mine and present information from the huge volumes of raw data. This project is expected to improve productivity and quality of big data analytics and visualisation in critical domains. Field of research: 0803 - Computer Software

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2017 · 2017-01

Discrete functional analysis: Bridging pure and numerical mathematics. This project aims to create the first numerical analysis tools to design robust, mathematically proven algorithms for engineering problems in underground flows. These equations are essential to accurately model and understand phenomena such as oil extraction, carbon sequestration and groundwater contamination. The project will provide powerful mathematical tools to improve the reliability of numerical simulations for such challenges and significantly improve the reliability of the predictions under assumptions that are compatible with field applications. Field of research: 0103 - Numerical and Computational Mathematics

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2017 · 2017-01

3'UTR switching in eukaryotic cells. The project aims to uncover conserved features fundamental to the mechanism and function of post-transcriptional gene-expression control. RNA systems interface the executive functions of DNA and the worker functions of proteins. mRNA often dictates the level, timing and location of protein synthesis. This project will use RNA-sequencing and bespoke bioinformatics to probe global RNA-dynamics. Mixing yeast-genetics with RNA-technologies, it focuses on 3’ untranslated region (UTR) dynamics in eukaryotic cell biology. This project expects to significantly advance the understanding of eukaryotic gene function and gene regulation, critical in an age of personalised genomic medicine. Field of research: 0604 - Genetics

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2017 · 2017-01

Rights in records by design. This project aims to design and develop a Lifelong Living Archive for children who experience out-of-home care Children cared for out-of-home need quality recordkeeping systems to develop and nurture their sense of identity and connectedness; account for their care experiences throughout their lives; and detect, report, investigate and take action against child neglect and abuse. This research is expected to support children experiencing family dislocation through efficient, effective, and responsive recordkeeping systems to ensure the highest standards and continuity of care. Field of research: 0807 - Library and Information Studies

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2017 · 2017-01

New materials for manipulating intracellular communication. This project aims to identify new techniques for incorporating cell-signalling triggers into macromolecules, therefore enabling the development of next-generation stimuli-responsive nanoparticles that can emit signalling molecules on demand. Harnessing nanomaterials to stimulate specific sub-cellular processes is a neglected area in nanotechnology research. These nanoparticles could potentially be used to deliver signalling molecules for agricultural, pharmaceutical and veterinary applications. The project is expected to develop a new suite of materials that could ultimately be used to improve the yield of important commercial crops, or revitalise the use of medicines limited by their poor side effect profile. Field of research: 0912 - Materials Engineering

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2017 · 2017-01

Modelling the population impact of injury. This project aims to model the long-term, population impact of non-fatal injury through the use of cutting edge epidemiological modelling, sophisticated biostatistics, advanced econometrics, and geospatial analysis. The project will use population-based, linked longitudinal data to generate new knowledge about the long-term impacts of injury, cost of injury, and expected burden into the future. Through the multi-disciplinary and multi-national collaborations established, it is anticipated that this project may lead to future changes in public health and social policy, prioritisation of injury prevention efforts, and establish the capacity to evaluate injury interventions and policy shifts as they occur. Field of research: 1117 - Public Health and Health Services

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2017 · 2017-01

Formation and evolution of planetary systems. This project aims to develop computer simulation methods and mathematical modelling to help solve the mystery of how planets form. The project should also produce world-first algorithms for combining the effects of radiation and hydrodynamics, which will have a wide application in astronomy, atmospheric science and engineering and constraints on the processes of planet formation. The anticipated outcome of the project is to pinpoint the regions where the dust grains grow to form the building blocks of planets. Field of research: 0201 - Astronomical and Space Sciences

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2017 · 2017-01

Generative Materialism: advancing design of the digital and physical. This interdisciplinary project aims to open the way for the next generation of manufacturing technologies by linking advanced computer science with the creative arts. Using innovative techniques that combine generative systems, advanced digital fabrication and the creative needs of modern design, the project seeks to boost human creativity by intelligently connecting the digital and physical processes of generative systems. The outcomes will help build the next generation of digital arts software systems that assist creative and industry professionals to excel, promoting higher productivity and greater creativity vital to Australia's future creative industries. This will provide benefits such as the creation of breakthrough systems for the creative industries that elevate the role of computational generation and on-demand manufacturing in contemporary design, production and creative practice. Field of research: 1902 - Film, Television and Digital Media

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2017 · 2017-01

ARC Research Hub for Energy-efficient Separation. The ARC Research Hub for Energy-efficient Separation aims to develop advanced separation materials, innovative products and smart processes to reduce the energy consumption of separation processes. The Research Hub will create a multi-disciplinary training platform, supplying a highly-trained workforce for the advanced manufacturing sector, particularly in separation technology–a growth area in which Australia can lead the world. The advancement of Australia’s capability as a world-leading technology provider in manufacturing advanced separation materials and equipment will enable Australian industry to become more energy-efficient and cost-competitive in a global economy. Field of research: 0904 - Chemical Engineering

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2017 · 2017-01

Nature's mechanisms for leaching and remobilising metals. This project aims to understand the chemical and physical processes that govern reactive transport and metal scavenging in rocky environments. Much of Australia's mineral wealth is the result of the interaction of warm fluids with rocks deep in the Earth over geological timescales. The formation of ore deposits is governed by the physical chemistry of mineral dissolution and crystallisation, and by fluid flow through porous rocks and fractures. This project integrates innovation in geology, chemistry, and mineral engineering, and will deliver mineral-scale reaction models that will increase efficiency of in-situ mining and leaching technologies. Knowledge generated can be applied to improve mineral exploration, mining, and processing, contributing to unlocking billions of dollars’ worth of resources tied up in low grade, mineralogically complex ores. Field of research: 0402 - Geochemistry

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2017 · 2017-01

Dynamic electrochemistry with Bayesian inference. This project aims to develop and apply a highly advanced integrated research package in dynamic electrochemistry to molecules of biologically significance and ionic liquids of industrial importance. Experiments designed to understand electrochemical devices such as batteries and biosensors are often based on dynamic voltametric principles. This project will integrate alternating current voltametric instrumentation and software packages that model the relevant physical chemistry with data analysis tools derived from Bayesian inference. This project is expected to set a new standard for reporting and commercially exploiting statistically understood electrode kinetics. Basic data needed to develop platinum free fuel cells and other devices will emerge in this research programme. Field of research: 0306 - Physical Chemistry (Incl. Structural)

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2017 · 2017-01

Strengthening Australia’s science workforce. This project aims to study why science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) employees stay or leave jobs. There is a strong economic imperative to retain STEM employees. The Australian Government invests heavily in building the supply of STEM graduates, but STEM workers often leave STEM occupations. This project will use a job embeddedness perspective to clarify why these employees stay or leave. Expected project outputs include an evidence-based toolkit, online masterclass and an online community of practice to contribute to strengthening Australia’s science and innovation capacity. Field of research: 1503 - Business and Management