MONASH UNIVERSITY

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2016 · 2016-01

Interactive companion robot with nanowire-based electronic skin. Interactive companion robot with nanowire-based electronic skin. This project aims to design an interactive companion robot with electronic skin which can communicate with people by touch and enhance their psychological development. Interactive companion robots can improve the social life quality of people with communication disorders and help elderly people. Although touch is extremely important in human communication, most companion robots lack haptic sensing, which degenerates the human-robot interaction. The anticipated outcome is a touchable robot with developmental benefits for autistic children and psychological benefits for elderly people. Field of research: 0913 - Mechanical Engineering

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2016 · 2016-01

Novel nanosensors for monitoring of water filtration membrane integrity. Novel nanosensors for monitoring of water filtration membrane integrity. This project aims to develop arrays of electrochemical biosensors based on nanostructured silicon for real-time monitoring of water filtration membrane integrity. Real-time monitoring of membrane performance, based on removing virus-sized particles, is a priority for the water industry to maximise asset life and meet increased demand for safe and high-quality water. Materials scientists, electrochemists, and specialists in water management and reuse aim to harness advances in nanostructured transducers and electrochemical protocols to develop online performance-monitoring technology. This project is expected to improve water treatment processes, removing viruses and reducing the risks and uncertainties of water recycling. Field of research: 0301 - Analytical Chemistry

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2016 · 2016-01

Towards a superannuation system fit for the future. Towards a superannuation system fit for the future. This project aims to develop a stochastic superannuation model and propose alternative post retirement solutions, using data-led understanding of savings habits. Funding for the increasing cost of the growing older population will, if not modelled, forecast and managed adequately, swamp all other welfare and state funded costs. To manage older age costs adequately, governments need to encourage people to save and provide ways people can save—but need to better understand how people save money for their old age. This research is expected to enable the “superannuation change“ necessary for the superannuation system to remain sustainable and fund retirees to live well. Field of research: 1603 - Demography

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2016 · 2016-01

On demand three-dimensional printing of stainless steel parts. On demand three-dimensional printing of stainless steel parts. This project aims to revolutionize the security of supply of critical stainless steel parts by producing them on-site and on demand, using three dimensional metal printing. Australia’s oil and gas industry uses tonnes of stainless steel for critical processing components in production plants. Australia is also one of the few developed nations without appreciable production and processing facilities for stainless steels, so relies on specialist overseas suppliers. This is a major risk to the industry, which stores billions of dollars’ worth of replacement parts, including stainless steels, in inventory. This project should reduce reliance on overseas steel suppliers and free up hundreds of millions of dollars of capital invested in the inventory stores of replacement stainless steel parts. Field of research: 0912 - Materials Engineering

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2016 · 2016-01

Particle-scale modelling of particle-fluid flows in gas and oil extraction. Particle-scale modelling of particle-fluid flows in gas and oil extraction. This project aims to develop a particle scale model to study the pipeline transport of petroleum fluids. It will use a combined theoretical and experimental program, involving state-of-the-art discrete element modelling and simulation techniques, to describe the complex particle-fluid flow and erosion of pipeline transport in gas and oil extraction, quantify the effects of key variables, and formulate strategies for optimum process control under different conditions. The research outcomes are expected to be useful for the process control of pipeline transport in Australia’s important petroleum and energy-related industries. Field of research: 0904 - Chemical Engineering

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2016 · 2016-01

Polymeric nanoparticles for delivery of siRNA: mechanisms and opportunities. Polymeric nanoparticles for delivery of siRNA: mechanisms and opportunities. This project aims to improve the delivery of small interfering RNA (siRNA) molecules using self-assembling nanoparticles. A series of biological barriers, at tissue and intracellular levels, limit the distribution of siRNA, and prevent these macromolecules from fulfilling their potential as therapeutic agents. Limited penetration of tissues restricts access to target cells, and intracellular enzymes often degrade the small proportion of the dose that is taken up by cells. The project intends to investigate new mechanisms to overcome these biological barriers using novel chemical approaches. This research is expected to have major health and economic outcomes, nationally and internationally. Field of research: 1115 - Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2016 · 2016-01

The convective boundaries in stars. This project aims to locate the boundaries of convection, a problem in models of stars. It will calculate high-resolution three-dimensional simulations of stars and observe star clusters. The effect of this advance on stellar modelling could be profound since almost all stars contain convective regions. Many branches of astronomy rely on stellar models so the effect could extend far beyond the immediate field, ultimately expanding understanding of the Universe. It could also be crucial in realising the scientific advances of the surveys which are gathering data for up to a billion stars. Field of research: 0201 - Astronomical and Space Sciences

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2016 · 2016-01

Fluorescence and internal reflection system to develop lab-on-chip devices. Fluorescence and internal reflection system to develop lab-on-chip devices: The aim of this project is to develop and establish a state-of-the-art fluorescence imaging facility. It aims to establish a total internal reflection fluorescence microscope combined with high speed epifluorescence imaging workstation that will be tailored to specifically investigate the fundamentals of blood cell, and vascular cell function. The project forms part of a broad bioengineering research program aimed at developing novel lab-on-chip technologies for basic cell biology and haematology. Outcomes from these projects may have significant impact in fundamental research in both bioengineering and biology disciplines. Field of research: 0601 - Biochemistry and Cell Biology

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2016 · 2016-01

The diversity of core-collapse supernovae. This project aims to develop a comprehensive picture of the explosions of massive stars as core-collapse supernovae using high-end computer simulations. Such explosions come in many varieties and arise from different classes of progenitor stars. This project seeks to thoroughly understand this diversity. It endeavours to provide simulations of supernovae powered by magnetic fields, supernovae that produce black holes, supernovae in binary systems, and the most energetic neutrino-driven supernovae. The project also aspires to better link numerical simulations, observations of supernovae and their remnants, and the nucleosynthesis fingerprints that supernovae have left in the chemical history record of galaxies. Field of research: 0201 - Astronomical and Space Sciences

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2016 · 2016-01

Origin and impact of solute clustering in light alloys. This project is designed to provide a physical metallurgy platform for understanding and interpreting the role of clusters of micro-alloying elements in precipitation in light alloys and aiding new alloy development. Phase transformations play an important role in determining the mechanical properties of many engineering materials. Understanding the origin and impact of solute clustering in phase transformations is crucial for achieving unprecedented properties in these materials. This project plans to combine atomic-scale characterisation and multi-scale computation to reveal the geometry and energetics of solute clusters and cluster-assisted nucleation in light alloys based on aluminium and magnesium. Applications may include the development of stronger and less costly metallic materials for the aerospace, aircraft and automotive industries. Field of research: 0912 - Materials Engineering

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2016 · 2016-01

Acoustic single cell traps: Understanding the woods by examining the trees. This project aims to define the underlying physics behind the manipulation of individual cells in a microfluidic chip using acoustic forces. The technology investigated would offer biomedical researchers a unique capability: that of tracking individual cell responses. It is known for example that drug resistance and latency emerge from small sub-populations of cells, so crucial information is lost when cells are studied at a population level. To trap single cells, the acoustic wavelength excited must be reduced to the order of a cell diameter. By enabling the analysis of different responses due to subtle cell difference, information pertinent to infection pathways and drug response could be gathered. Field of research: 0915 - Interdisciplinary Engineering

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2016 · 2016-01

Novel concepts to engineer low cost blood diagnostics. Novel concepts to engineer low cost blood diagnostics. This project aims to deliver the next generation of on-paper blood diagnostics: cheap, fast, easy to use, reliable, specific and robust. Transformational methods in on-paper and thread-based diagnostics could make indirect and weak blood typing possible. This project expects on-paper testing for fibrinogen to assess clotting capability could revolutionise treatment of massive blood loss. Expected results of this project are a new class of on-paper and thread-based diagnostic tests with enhanced sensitivity, readability and lower cost, which could significantly affect trauma, rural medicine and developing nations. Field of research: 1003 - Industrial Biotechnology

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2016 · 2016-01

Electronic skin nanopatches for continuous blood pressure monitoring. Electronic skin nanopatches for continuous blood pressure monitoring. This project aims to develop soft, thin, wearable and non-invasive heart health monitors that continuously monitor blood pressures anytime anywhere, using an electronic skin technology platform with the world’s thinnest gold nanowires. Nanotechnologists, electrical engineers, clinicians, information technologists and industrial designers will collaborate to develop blood pressure correlation algorithms and evaluate sensing performances. New knowledge and commercial technologies will make Australian medical technology industries competitive global leaders in wearable technology industries. Field of research: 1007 - Nanotechnology

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2016 · 2016-01

A molecular investigation into immune function. A molecular investigation into immune function. The project aims to understand how key immune recognition events enable immunity. This project would use a multidisciplinary approach empowered by technological innovations, including the latest advances in atomic and molecular imaging. This research is expected to identify new approaches for the biotechnology industry. Field of research: 0601 - Biochemistry and Cell Biology

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2016 · 2016-01

Genetic rescue of Australian wildlife. Genetic rescue of Australian wildlife. This project aims to test genetic rescue as an efficient recovery technique for threatened plants and animals. Genetic rescue is under-utilised, even though it is overwhelmingly beneficial. This project will convert management actions on five Endangered/Critically Endangered species into rigorous experiments that measure the fitness benefits of genetic rescue, and demonstrate genome-wide consequences. Anticipated outcomes include innovative genetic rescue protocols, a framework for genetic rescue, and leading-edge conservation training. Expected benefits are increased persistence of species that are otherwise unresponsive to management, and a new path to saving endangered species. Field of research: 0502 - Environmental Science and Management

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2016 · 2016-01

From hazard identification to risk management. From hazard identification to risk management. This project aims to explore health risks from water- and sediment-borne bacteria to recreational users of urban rivers, using a suite of novel molecular microbiological and in-vitro assays and microbial risk assessment modelling. This project also aims to develop source tracking methods to mitigate and manage these risks. The number of bacterial-related water-borne outbreaks associated with recreational activities is rising, but waterway managers are under pressure to re-open these rivers for recreation. The project is expected to benefit urban communities by ensuring waterway managers make informed decisions about river recreation. Field of research: 0905 - Civil Engineering

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2016 · 2016-01

Understanding the automobility decisions of Australian millennials. The aim of this project is to understand the decision-making of young Australians regarding driver licensing and car travel. After decades of growth in car use, young adults are now becoming less likely to get a licence and drive cars. This reduction in car dependence provides an opportunity to reduce road deaths and injuries, road congestion and greenhouse gas emissions. Understanding how and why young adults make decisions about their current and future car mobility could support this societal transformation and enhance sustainability and well-being. Field of research: 1205 - Urban and Regional Planning

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2016 · 2016-01

Understanding and implications of formation of lipid nanostructures in milk. This project aims to deliver new understanding of the processes of milk digestion. Milk is the most important food for human survival, providing all the essential nutrition to newborn infants and constituting a major part of the adult diet. The recent discovery that nanostructure is formed during the digestion of both cow and breast milk, but not of vegetable 'milk', has opened a large number of questions to answer in this project. Specifically, the project plans to link nanostructure formation in milk with composition during digestion, and the subsequent delivery of nutrients. The project plans to use synchrotron and microscopy techniques to address these questions. Project outcomes may improve our understanding of digestion and drive innovation in products delivering nutrients to infants. Field of research: 0306 - Physical Chemistry (Incl. Structural)

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2016 · 2016-01

An Automated Protein Nano-Crystallisation Facility. An automated protein nano-crystallisation facility: The project aims to establish a high throughput protein nanocrystallisation and imaging facility for protein crystallography. Protein crystallography is an important field of biological research, however there are many proteins, such as integral membrane proteins and transient molecular complexes that are more challenging to crystallise. The facility aims to use state-of-the-art imaging and crystallisation techniques, including second order nonlinear imaging of chiral crystals (SONICC) imaging and lipid cubic phase approaches, to enable structural studies to be undertaken on challenging proteins. This information is often used for the rational development of therapeutics. The facility would support cutting-edge biological research In Australia. Field of research: 0601 - Biochemistry and Cell Biology

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2016 · 2016-01

Development of hierarchical carbon nanotube-glass fibre composites. Development of hierarchical carbon nanotube-glass fibre composites. This project aims to develop a new generation of hierarchical carbon nanotube-glass fibre reinforced composites, using a novel synthesis method that grafts carbon nanotubes (CNTs) onto glass fibre and glass fabric. These hierarchical nano- and micro-fibre composites will have improved in-plane mechanical properties, enhanced fracture toughness and higher electric conductivity. This project will use a comprehensive experimental and theoretical study to develop design tools for producing this new generation of composites. The anticipated outcome is lighter and stronger glass fibre composite structures, such as wind turbines in the renewable wind energy industry and boats in the marine industry. Field of research: 0912 - Materials Engineering

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2016 · 2016-01

Toward inclusive peace. Toward inclusive peace. This project will investigate how peace agreements can advance women’s rights and participation after post-conflict and political transitions. It will examine the relationship between women’s presence in peacemaking processes, women’s rights and gender provisions in peace agreements, and women’s participation in post-conflict governance of countries with successful peace agreements. Women’s participation in peace processes makes a successful peace agreement likelier, but may not consolidate peace or lead to greater participation by women in the governance of the country. Anticipated outcomes are analysis of the relationship between peace processes and gender equality in conflict-affected societies; improved consular delivery of aid programmes in fragile states; and targeted air delivery that empowers women. Field of research: 1606 - Political Science

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2016 · 2016-01

Advanced coding techniques for next generation NAND Flash memories. Advanced coding techniques for next generation NAND Flash memories. This project aims to design low-power consuming coding schemes that can achieve the maximum coding gain for NAND Flash memories in Solid State Drives. Although these devices are replacing hard drives in laptops and provide enormous benefits in access speed and weight, they become unreliable the more they are used. Advanced coding techniques are needed to solve problems caused by the very strict reliability/cost requirements of large storage systems. Allocating memory to coding redundant information can extend these devices’ lifetime. The design of codes and decoders with a low power consumption is expected to be the key enabling technology for next generation large storage devices. Field of research: 0804 - Data Format

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2016 · 2016-01

Claiming possession: Asia, Europe and empire. This project aims to reassess the nature of claims to possession across the early modern world. Claiming created the borders we take for granted and its legal artefacts are everywhere evident. Claiming was never only a European enterprise, and Asia was and remains an active site for claiming. The project will examine how Europeans claimed possession over people, lands and resources in the shadow of powerful Asian states and charts the emergence of local counterclaims and processes of legal resistance. The research will also analyse Asian polities’ historical claiming practices across borderland areas. This project could show how practices developed in the early modern period influence current sovereignty disputes in the South and East China Seas. Field of research: 2103 - Historical Studies

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2016 · 2016-01

Understanding physics through flexible calculations. This project aims to explore and interpret physics at the high energy frontier with calculations and computational techniques. It will develop and apply techniques and software to arbitrary physics models and make predictions in models. This will expand the set of ideas that can be rigorously scrutinised using data from collider and astrophysical experiments. This may shed light on the origin of dark matter and why the Higgs mass is so light, and expand understanding of nature at the most foundational level. Field of research: 0202 - Atomic, Molecular, Nuclear, Particle and Plasma Physics

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2016 · 2016-01

New Generation of Secure Wireless Communications for Constrained Devices. This project aims to develop novel physical-layer security techniques to safeguard the ‘Internet of things’ (IoT). The IoT will involve billions of resource-constrained devices connected to the environment and managed though a range of wireless connections. Standard wireless security solutions are unsuitable for these devices due to the high cost of communication and computation. The project aims to develop a novel wireless security approach based on the physical-layer properties of wireless channels, to secure communications for the IoT. The fundamental advances of the first two years will be followed by a software-defined radio demonstration of the new technology. Expected project outcomes would provide innovative solutions to safeguard future commercial deployment of the IoT. Field of research: 1005 - Communications Technologies