Automated structural analysis of proteins by nuclear magnetic resonance (ASAP-NMR): a leap forward in structural studies of proteins using NMR spectroscopy. Proteins form the machinery that makes life possible, and this research will revolutionise study of their three-dimensional structure by making the process faster and cheaper. This approach will be applied to study proteins isolated from animal venoms in order to identify and develop novel pharmaceuticals and bio-insecticides.
Elucidation of structure-function relationships in biological systems utilising advanced electron spin resonance. The human growth hormone receptor and mammalian P450 enzymes are implicated in numerous human disorders and the key to treatment is the rational design and delivery of drugs. This project will require a comprehensive understanding of the biological structure-function relationship which we will acquire using high-resolution electron spin resonance spectroscopy.
Structural insights of virus-glycan interactions. Influenza virus, rotavirus and Dengue virus infect the body by adhering to certain types of sugars on the human cell surface. This project will develop a detailed structural understanding of how viruses interact with those sugar molecules for the development of novel drugs and vaccines to combat influenza and rotaviral infections.
Physics-informed Computational Framework for Optimised Microfluidic Systems. The miniaturisation of chemical and biological processes requires microfluidic tools for the precise manipulation of complex fluids at the microscale. This project aims to integrate new computational methods that enable unprecedented control over the design and optimisation of these tools. The project will deliver a cornerstone framework to elucidate the complex microscopic fluid physics that currently poses a challenge ....Physics-informed Computational Framework for Optimised Microfluidic Systems. The miniaturisation of chemical and biological processes requires microfluidic tools for the precise manipulation of complex fluids at the microscale. This project aims to integrate new computational methods that enable unprecedented control over the design and optimisation of these tools. The project will deliver a cornerstone framework to elucidate the complex microscopic fluid physics that currently poses a challenge for the advancement of microfluidic technologies. The outcomes of this project will establish physical principles to guide the design of microfluidic systems and provide the computational capabilities that can potentially transform the way researchers and engineers design, optimise and use microfluidic technologies.Read moreRead less
Surface modification of semiconducting organic charge transfer complexes with metal nanoparticles to create a new class of multifunctional materials. This project aims to deliver a facile and cheap method to produce a class of nanostructured composite materials to be used in applications which will have environmental and social benefits such as photocatalyst development for water purification, biosensing and the creation of antibacterial fabrics to prevent the spread of infection.
Novel Synthesis and Bio-applications of Functional Macroporous Ordered Siliceous Foams. This project will lead to advances in materials science and nanotechnology, providing high efficiency separation and purification for viruses or plasmid deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA), which are important in modern gene engineering for the treatment of genetic and acquired diseases. Application benefits also include developing a new protocol in the detection of trace amount proteins, which will afford a signific ....Novel Synthesis and Bio-applications of Functional Macroporous Ordered Siliceous Foams. This project will lead to advances in materials science and nanotechnology, providing high efficiency separation and purification for viruses or plasmid deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA), which are important in modern gene engineering for the treatment of genetic and acquired diseases. Application benefits also include developing a new protocol in the detection of trace amount proteins, which will afford a significant improvement in diverse fields such as health care. Through this project, novel macroporous materials will be fabricated using an economically and environmentally sustainable approach. These new materials will have unique structures and properties compared to conventional macroporous materials, advancing Australia's intellectual position in this discipline.Read moreRead less
Next generation titanium alloys for additive manufacturing. The rise of 3D printing creates unique opportunities for Australian manufacturers to participate in high value global supply chains. However, the lack of development in high quality printable materials is stopping manufacturers from accessing the full potential of 3D printing. This project aims to develop a design strategy for the next generation of titanium metals designed for 3D printing. This project expects to improve functionality ....Next generation titanium alloys for additive manufacturing. The rise of 3D printing creates unique opportunities for Australian manufacturers to participate in high value global supply chains. However, the lack of development in high quality printable materials is stopping manufacturers from accessing the full potential of 3D printing. This project aims to develop a design strategy for the next generation of titanium metals designed for 3D printing. This project expects to improve functionality of 3D printed metals with qualities that go beyond the most demanding industry acceptance criteria. This project should provide significant benefits by creating new capabilities and improving the productivity of Australian manufacturers while lowering the cost of products for consumers.Read moreRead less
Designed peptides as functional surfactants. Surfactants are essential in many applications for making oil-water mixtures, e.g. in dissolving drugs, extracting crude oil or spraying crops. However, chemical surfactants are toxic and can accumulate in the environment. This work will develop biodegradable surfactants that can be switched "on" and "off" as needed and do not cause toxicity to living organisms. One of many potential applications is in vaccines for use in remote Aboriginal communities ....Designed peptides as functional surfactants. Surfactants are essential in many applications for making oil-water mixtures, e.g. in dissolving drugs, extracting crude oil or spraying crops. However, chemical surfactants are toxic and can accumulate in the environment. This work will develop biodegradable surfactants that can be switched "on" and "off" as needed and do not cause toxicity to living organisms. One of many potential applications is in vaccines for use in remote Aboriginal communities. In these communities, skin infections from scabies and streptococcus are epidemic, and can lead to kidney failure and heart disease. A non-damaging skin cream based on the peptides could both treat short-term discomfort and deliver a vaccine to prevent long-term health consequences.Read moreRead less
Solar-driven thermochemical dissociation of carbon dioxide and water to produce carbon-neutral fuels. The biggest challenge to humanity of the century is to develop enabling clean energy resources to encounter rapidly diminished fossil fuel and accelerated global warming conditions. This project will offer a solution by developing a unique solar-driven thermochemical system capable of cleaving carbon dioxide and water to produce artificial syngas.
Carbon-based electrode materials for electrochemical energy storage and water desalination. Clean energy and water resource are two critical issues for an environmentally sustainable Australia. The research project will lead to the discovery of innovative carbon-based electrode materials with well-designed physical and chemical properties for clean energy storage and alternative water desalination technology.