MONASH UNIVERSITY

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2016 · 2016-01

Predictability of the El Nino-Southern Oscillation. This project aims to improve understanding of the El Nino-Southern Oscillation (ENSO), the world’s largest source of climate variability. ENSO’s effects are so large that knowledge of its current phase and forecasts of its future phase underpin seasonal rainfall, temperature and tropical cyclone forecasts worldwide. In Australia, ENSO cycles cause drought and floods. Using a suite of empirical observations and numerical models to analyse ENSO event precursors, initiation and predictability, this project intends to enhance skill in inter-seasonal climate forecasting and help those sectors reliant on accurate prediction. Field of research: 0405 - Oceanography

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2016 · 2016-01

Understanding how mitochondria divide. This project aims to investigate the molecular mechanism by which mitochondria divide. Mitochondria are the powerhouse within our cells, and they grow and divide in our cells to ensure that they are transferred to daughter cells and also so that older mitochondria can be turned over. The project plans to build on the discovery of mitochondrial membrane proteins that are involved in fission. The results of the project could provide fundamental new knowledge into how the mitochondrial division machine assembles and how mitochondrial fate is determined. Field of research: 0601 - Biochemistry and Cell Biology

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2016 · 2016-01

How does Clostridium perfringens carry multiple closely related plasmids? The project aims to determine how bacteria are able to replicate and maintain multiple copies of very closely related extrachromosomal elements or plasmids in the same cell. These plasmids are important as they encode toxin genes and antibiotic resistance genes. The project proposes to examine two fundamental hypotheses that are postulated to explain this novel phenomenon. The anticipated outcome of the project is the advancement of fundamental knowledge of how bacteria that cause disease in food-production animals can maintain the genetic elements that enable them to cause these diseases. This would contribute to our understanding of the epidemiology of these economically significant animal pathogens and may support the development of new methods of prevention or treatment. Field of research: 0605 - Microbiology

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2016 · 2016-01

Development and evolution of land plant shoots. How do plants grow and develop their wonderful diversity of forms, from cereal crops to eucalypt forests? The project aims to understand basic mechanisms of plant development via comparative studies using the model angiosperm, Arabidopsis, and the liverwort, Marchantia, which possesses a simplified genome. Comparative studies of the genetic basis of the body plan, branching, and hormonal action could unlock their evolutionary elaboration from the simpler liverworts to more complex flowering plants. The project may generate new understanding of the principles of how genes and hormones control the architecture of plant shoot systems, and support the targeted selection of new agricultural plants. Field of research: 0604 - Genetics

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2016 · 2016-01

Advanced simulation methods for the coupled solar interior and atmosphere. This project aims to develop numerical methods for complex magnetohydrodynamic simulations able to handle sharp and dynamically evolving inhomogeneities, spherical geometries, and dramatic variations in density and wave speed across the simulation domain. The project plans to develop these methods within the context of solar wave processes, which are fundamental to the transfer of energy from the sun’s interior to its outer atmosphere, to the acceleration of the solar wind that rushes past the Earth continually, and to solar activity in general. This would provide the best available modelling of how the sun's atmosphere works, with direct implications for how the Earth's space environment is determined by solar storms and eruptions. Field of research: 0103 - Numerical and Computational Mathematics

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2016 · 2016-01

Extreme astrophysics in the age of gravitational waves. This project aims to probe the most catastrophic explosions in the universe. It will use gravitational wave astronomy to detect an exotic effect that causes space to permanently deform following cataclysmic events, determine the origin of binary black holes by measuring statistical properties of many mergers, and use observations of colliding neutron stars to understand the physics of the biggest explosions in the Universe. This project will lay the framework for the next decade of the new field of gravitational-wave astronomy. Field of research: 0201 - Astronomical and Space Sciences

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2016 · 2016-01

Interrogating the music city: cultural economy & popular music in Melbourne. Drawing on a range of sources and disciplinary frameworks, this project is designed to be both a history of the pop and rock music scenes in Melbourne from the mid-1950s to the present, and an analysis and critique of the usefulness of the concept of the 'music city' to understanding the role of popular music in the cultural economy of cities internationally. Melbourne is Australia’s premier ‘music city’, with popular music a key component of its contemporary identity and cultural economy. As governments and civic leaders around the world increasingly look to music cultures as drivers of economic development and cultural status, the project offers a timely evaluation of the utility of this cultural and economic strategy. Field of research: 1904 - Performing Arts and Creative Writing

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2016 · 2016-01

Behaviour and evolutionary responses to pharmaceutical pollution. This project aims to uncover how a ubiquitous pharmaceutical pollutant – fluoxetine, known as Prozac – alters the course of reproduction and sexual selection in a freshwater fish. Drugs used in human and veterinary medicine enter the environment and pose a serious threat to wildlife. The project plans to integrate morphological, behavioural, and experimental evolution approaches to yield insights into how fluoxetine affects sexual traits and behaviours, and how this in turn can affect offspring viability and the evolutionary process. Findings are expected to add to our understanding of how species respond to rapidly changing environments, with consequences for the persistence of populations and the survival of species in the wild. Field of research: 0602 - Ecology

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2016 · 2016-01

Talking through touch: adapting sign languages for use by Deafblind people. This project intends to investigate tactile Australian Sign Language (Auslan), the sign language of deafblind Australians. People who are both deaf and blind are at high risk of social isolation and often have only a limited number of people with whom they can communicate fluently. Those who were born deaf and lose vision as adults often use a tactile form of sign language, but how visual sign languages are modified for tactile delivery is poorly understood. Drawing on conversational data from experienced tactile signers, the project will use conversation analysis to document and describe tactile Auslan. This analysis aims to inform interpreter and case worker training and to contribute to our understanding of touch as a previously underexplored language modality. Field of research: 2004 - Linguistics

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2016 · 2016-01

Cinema and the brain: Eisenstein-Vygotsky-Luria’s collaboration. This project aims to investigate an important collaboration between a leading filmmaker, a neuroscientist and a psychologist: the revolutionary Russian filmmaker Sergei Eisenstein, the founder of contemporary neuroscience Alexander Luria, and the cultural psychologist Lev Vygotsky. These three pioneers conducted a research program from the 1920s to the 1940s that addressed the neural basis and semiotics of screen aesthetics. This project intends to use this collaboration as a paradigmatic case study, identifying principles underlying the relationship between the brain sciences, cinema theory and psychology. It is expected that the project findings will be applicable in the educational sector, the film industry and in digital media policy and development. Field of research: 1902 - Film, Television and Digital Media

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2016 · 2016-01

Development of nano reinforced concrete using boron nitride nanosheets. This project seeks to develop high-performance concrete materials by exploiting emerging nanotechnology. It plans to adopt emerging nanotechnology involving hexagonal boron nitride nanosheets and advanced micro-computer tomography instrumentation to transform conventional concrete into one that is stronger and more durable in extreme environmental conditions. It also plans to use sophisticated modelling techniques including molecular dynamics simulations as well as microplane models to analyse the effect of nanofillers. The findings may drive advances in cement hydration, nanotechnology, concrete technology and blast, impact and fire engineering. Field of research: 0905 - Civil Engineering

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2016 · 2016-01

Bias and allostery at the calcium sensing receptor. This project aims to provide a mechanistic and dynamic picture of the structure, function and physiology of the human calcium sensing receptor (CaSR), which is critical for vertebrate life. By responding to chemicals in the body, it acts as a universal nutrient sensor to maintain extracellular calcium homeostasis and mediate biological functions, including neurotransmission, inflammation, digestion, blood pressure and development. However, it is not known how this single receptor controls the actions of multiple ligands to mediate numerous functions. By elucidating the roles of the CaSR and its ligands, this project aims to better understand fundamental physiological processes. Field of research: 1115 - Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2016 · 2016-01

Experimental evolution in the mitochondrion. This project aims to discover if the genetic variation in mitochondria (our energy centres) contributes to evolutionary adaptation. This is a long-debated hypothesis in evolutionary biology. This project will take an inter-disciplinary approach, involving experimental evolution, an ecological framework, the measurement of organismal physiologies, and fruit fly genetics. The outcomes could change how biologists view the mitochondria, reveal mitochondria’s role in adaptation to climatic stress, and their contribution to shaping evolutionary trade-offs and conflict between the sexes. Field of research: 0603 - Evolutionary Biology

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2016 · 2016-01

Non-destructing X-ray testing. This project aims to improve imaging with X-rays, providing better image quality with higher throughput at a lower radiation dose. It will develop an X-ray imaging system that provides orders of magnitude greater sensitivity for detecting low-density objects that are often invisible with conventional X-ray scanners, and quantitative image analysis tools that can isolate materials from complex multi-material samples and detect individual chemical elements. Significant benefits from these technologies are expected in industries including airport security, mining, agriculture, manufacturing quality control, and in research fields from medicine to geology. Field of research: 0205 - Optical Physics

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2016 · 2016-01

Annealing strengthening in magnesium alloys. The project seeks to develop new knowledge to inform the design of lightweight magnesium wrought alloys with more uniform mechanical properties. Magnesium extrusion alloys developed for improved fuel efficiency suffer from a tension–compression yield strength asymmetry problem: they are strong under tension but weaker under compression, thus limiting their use in high-strength applications. An unusual annealing strengthening phenomenon of magnesium extrusion alloys was recently discovered that offers a significant opportunity to solve this problem. This project plans to use advanced experimental techniques, including high-resolution electron microscopy to reveal the mechanisms underlying this annealing strengthening phenomenon. The outcomes are likely to form the scientific basis for developing next-generation magnesium wrought alloys. Field of research: 0912 - Materials Engineering

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2016 · 2016-01

Time Delay, Externalities and Attitudes Toward Taxation. Public attitudes toward a policy have a significant impact on its effectiveness. The aim of this project is to investigate the determinants of public attitudes for incentive-based institutions, particularly taxes, by highlighting the importance of considering the intertemporal properties of taxation: when costs and benefits of taxation occur at different times. This project is designed to be a controlled study of how and why public attitudes towards taxation are influenced by the temporal structure of the externalities that the taxes are meant to control. The anticipated goal is to inform the design of institutions that the public will accept and, more generally, improve the understanding of intertemporal decision-making in environments with delayed externalities. Field of research: 1402 - Applied Economics

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2016 · 2016-01

Enantioselective catalysis using P-chiral phosphines and phosphinamines. This project aims to develop new methods to synthesise organic molecules. The synthesis of organic molecules for medicines, polymers and other applications depends on the use of catalysts to promote chemical reactions. The use of small organic catalysts, rather than those based on transition metals or enzymes, offers many advantages in the form of low toxicity, low cost, ease of use and minimal environmental impact. This project aims to deliver new methods for synthesis using new approaches in organocatalysis. The methods will be used to synthesise important molecules, including novel catalysts, biocompatible polyester materials and chiral phosphines, which are widely used in chemical industry but difficult and expensive to produce. Field of research: 0305 - Organic Chemistry

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2016 · 2016-01

Controlling cell polarity and asymmetric cell division in space and time. This project seeks to increase our understanding of how cells divide. Asymmetric cell division is a specialised form of cell division essential for the development of all organisms. The two meiotic divisions of the oocyte are extreme examples of asymmetric cell division that allow a reduction in chromosome content while retaining cytoplasmic vestments necessary for development. Successful asymmetric cell division requires the integration of cell cycle events with cell polarity. Understanding how this is achieved would improve our understanding of how to generate a healthy embryo in women, endangered species and in animals of commercial importance. Field of research: 0604 - Genetics

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2016 · 2016-01

3D printing of concrete structures reinforced using multiscale fibers. The project aims to develop high performance concrete structures using 3D printing techniques. 3D printing of concrete is receiving increasing attention because of its potential use for direct construction of buildings and other complex infrastructures of considerable dimensions and of virtually any shape. This project aims to develop high-performance concrete structures reinforced by multiscale (nano- and micro-fibre) fillers using 3D printing. The project plans to introduce a micro-fibre 3D mesh into the concrete with a ‘knitting’ technique. The outcome of the project may lead to a 60 per cent reduction in current manufacturing cost and reduction of the lead-time for concrete infrastructures. Field of research: 0905 - Civil Engineering

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2016 · 2016-01

Few-body correlations in many-particle quantum matter. This project aims to develop theories of quantum matter by investigating the connection between microscopic few-particle correlations and macroscopic quantum phenomena. The growing class of strongly correlated quantum systems that defy a conventional explanation creates a pressing need for this approach. This project will use the clean and tuneable cold-atom system, where microscopic properties are precisely known, to directly verify new spectral techniques. A greater understanding of quantum correlations is expected to advance several fields including condensed matter physics, and could underpin quantum devices where energy can be efficiently stored and rapidly extracted. Field of research: 0206 - Quantum Physics

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2016 · 2016-01

Metabolite- and lipid-based immunity. This project aims to investigate T-cell immunity to lipids and metabolites. The immune system protects hosts from pathogens, and uses T-cells to recognise infected host cells. However, many facets of T-cell function are not understood. This project will unearth the evolutionary and molecular correlates of lipid- and metabolite-based immunity across diverse species. This will provide basic fundamental insights and conceptual advances into a poorly understood, but crucial, component of the immune system. Field of research: 0601 - Biochemistry and Cell Biology

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2016 · 2016-01

Complex quantum dynamics for technological applications. This project aims to characterise dynamics of a quantum system immersed in a complex surrounding, such as a quantum computer interacting with an environment that remembers the computer’s past. Since there are no known methods for battling the effects of the environment on the computer when they are intertwined, this project will develop tools to combat these adverse effects. The project will discover physics of complex dynamics and investigate unexplored physical phenomena in the laboratory, like an antenna of photosynthetic systems that use complex surroundings for efficient and fast energy transport. The project is expected to help build new and improved quantum machines. Field of research: 0206 - Quantum Physics

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2016 · 2016-01

Interactions of geometry and knot theory. This project aims to use recent breakthroughs in hyperbolic geometry and Kleinian groups to relate geometry to knots which are mathematical objects arising in microbiology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics. Knots are often studied via the space around them known as the knot complement. Knot complements decompose into geometric pieces, and the most common geometry is hyperbolic, which completely determines a knot. However, how to obtain information on the hyperbolic geometry of a knot from a classical description is unknown. This project will obtain information by uncovering results that would enable classification of even extremely complicated knots, and could affect mathematics and other fields. Field of research: 0101 - Pure Mathematics

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2016 · 2016-01

National Drop Weight Impact Testing Facility. National drop weight impact testing facility: The national drop weight impact testing facility aims to enable dynamic tests on geo- and construction materials and systems. This facility aims to provide state-of-the-art technology to observe the real-time behaviour of elements and sub-assemblies under combined quasi-static and impact loading. Understanding material behaviour under dynamic loading is essential in dealing with many engineering problems. The facility may advance understanding of the fundamental behaviour of critical infrastructure exposed to impact loading and will foster innovations in design and construction. Applications may include improvement of the structural safety of infrastructure including railway networks, tunnels and bridges, and also the development of cost-effective and environmentally friendly building and construction materials. Field of research: 0905 - Civil Engineering

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2016 · 2016-01

Lifting the Veil on Turbulent Convective Heat Transfer over Rough Surfaces. By understanding the influence of surface roughness on convective heat transfer, this project intends to reduce the unwanted heating and energy losses associated with surface roughness in gas and steam turbines used in power generation and transportation. The surface roughness that results from extended operation of gas and steam turbines can significantly increase the heating of their surfaces, increasing fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, and reducing operational life. Improvements would allow turbines to operate at higher inlet temperatures which will increase their efficiency and reduce fuel use, environmental emissions and maintenance costs. Field of research: 0915 - Interdisciplinary Engineering