Professor Craig Priest is a faculty member at the University of South Australia within UniSA STEM , focusing on microfluidics , optofluidics , and interfacial science applications. He serves as a Research Degree Supervisor and has contributed to advancements in sensor technology, biomedical engineering, and materials science. Key Research Themes : Development of micropillar array-integrated sensors for rapid vapor detection 3D-printed microstructures to mitigate matrix effects in electrochemical sensing Wettability engineering for passive fluid control in lab-on-a-chip devices PDMS-PS bonding protocols enabling robust cell culture platforms like Heart-Dyno Collaborations & Grants : Collaborated with Queensland University of Technology and QIMR Berghofer on biomedical devices Involved in ARC grants: ARC IH150100028 and ARC DP1094337 Industry partnerships with BHP Billiton and ULVAC Inc. Academic Contributions : Published in IEEE Sensors , APL Materials , and ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces Active in microfluidic device design for biomedical and environmental applications Developed evaporation-driven fluid transport systems for portable biosensing platforms
Dr. Shelley Wickham is an Associate Professor and ARC DECRA Fellow at the University of Sydney, holding joint appointments in the Schools of Chemistry and Physics. She serves as a Westpac Research Fellow and leads the DNA Nanotechnology Group at the Sydney Nano Institute. Dr. Wickham is also co-Champion of the Sydney Nano Institute Grand Challenge project in Molecular Nanorobotics for Health, co-lead of the School of Physics Grand Challenge on Nanoscale brain navigation for targeted drug delivery, and faculty mentor of the University of Sydney BIOMOD team. Bachelor of Science and Master of Science in Physics from University of Sydney PhD in Condensed Matter Physics from University of Oxford Postdoctoral Fellow at Harvard Medical School, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, and Wyss Institute Dr. Wickham's research focuses on self-assembling nanotechnology and molecular robotics, particularly in the design and assembly of programmable nanostructures out of DNA. Her work spans applications in cell biology, materials science, and nanomedicine. Current research projects include design and synthesis of self-assembling DNA nanostructures, proto-cells made of DNA gels that move under flow, new plasma fabrication methods for biomolecule micropatterning, and DNA computation circuits for navigating the brain using machine learning. Her research aligns with the Faculty of Science Research Strengths in Molecules to Materials, Preventing and Treating Disease & Disorder, and Next Generation Materials. Analysis of Dr. Wickham's recent publications reveals a consistent focus on DNA nanotechnology with increasing sophistication in structural complexity and biological applications. Her work has evolved from fundamental DNA origami structures to increasingly complex multi-component systems with practical applications in nanomedicine and biomimetic engineering. Recent publications show strong interdisciplinary collaboration across chemistry, physics, biology, and engineering disciplines, with emphasis on real-world applications including drug delivery systems and biomolecular sensors. ARC DECRA Fellow Westpac Research Fellow BIOMOD World Champions (2019) Dr. Wickham actively mentors PhD students and postdoctoral researchers in her DNA nanotechnology group. She has secured significant research funding including ARC Discovery Projects, Westpac Scholarships, and NSW Health grants. Her current grants support projects such as '3D Bio-Nanomaterial Displays with Designer Architectures and Functions' and 'RNA aptamer sensing devices for rapid detection of blood clotting.' Dr. Wickham encourages applications from diverse backgrounds and maintains active collaborations with researchers at Harvard, Oxford, and other international institutions. Dr. Wickham leads the DNA Nanotechnology Group at the University of Sydney, which is part of the Sydney Nano Institute. Her lab focuses on building tools from DNA origami - including tweezers, spanners, wrenches and springs - to better understand biological processes at the nanoscale. The group has achieved notable success with the BIOMOD team winning world championships in 2019, and continues to develop innovative approaches to molecular robotics for healthcare applications.
Professor Brant Gibson is a Deputy Dean of Research and Innovation and holds the rank of Professor in the School of Science at RMIT University. His research focuses on quantum technologies, particularly diamond-based systems including nitrogen-vacancy (NV) centers, fluorescent nanoprobes, and hybrid materials for sensing applications. He leads projects in quantum magnetometry, photonics, and biomedical imaging, with an emphasis on translating lab-based innovations into practical devices for fields like medical diagnostics and environmental monitoring. Brant’s work spans condensed matter physics, nanotechnology, and optical engineering, with notable contributions to diamond-doped optical fibers, quantum sensor development, and the application of nanodiamonds in biophotonics. His research integrates experimental physics with computational modeling to optimize material properties and sensor performance. He is actively involved in student supervision, offering guidance for Masters and PhD candidates in quantum engineering, materials science, and interdisciplinary applications. Current projects include quantum tensor gradiometry for navigation, bioimaging with near-infrared emitters, and silk-diamond composites for wound monitoring. Brant’s academic contributions are further reflected in over 150 peer-reviewed publications and collaborations across academia and industry. His work bridges fundamental research with real-world applications, emphasizing Australia’s role in global quantum technology advancements.
Assoc. Professor Enbang Li is a Senior Lecturer at the School of Physics within the Faculty of Engineering and Information Sciences at the University of Wollongong. His research focuses on photonics, medical physics, and optical sensor technologies with applications in radiation dosimetry, biomedical engineering, and wearable devices. He has supervised numerous PhD and Master’s students in areas such as fiber-optic dosimetry for radiotherapy, blood glucose sensing, and microfluidics. His work includes advancements in fiber-optic dosimeters for MRI-LINAC systems, polymer-based biosensors for glucose monitoring, and integrated photonic sensors for temperature and pressure measurements. He has secured funding from organizations like the Australian Synchrotron Research Program and the University of Wollongong for projects related to dosimetry and photonic integration. Recent publications highlight innovations in HDR brachytherapy dosimetry, flexible electro-optic modulators for ECG signals, and lab-on-a-chip systems. His research also extends to material science, including corrosion studies of Al-Mg alloys and the dynamic behavior of sunscreens under in-service conditions.
Ediz Cetin is an Associate Professor in Digital Electronics Engineering at Macquarie University's School of Engineering and a member of the Astrophysics and Space Technologies Research Centre. He serves as Course Director for the MEng Electronics Engineering program and Chair of the School's Postgraduate Coursework Committee. His research focuses on radio frequency interference mitigation, fault-tolerant reconfigurable circuits for space applications, machine learning in RF signal analysis, and low-power digital circuit design. Education: PhD in Signal Processing (Unsupervised Adaptive Signal Processing Techniques for Wireless Receivers) B.Eng. (Hons.) in Control and Computer Engineering Research Interests: RF interference detection and localization GNSS anti-jamming and spoofing detection FPGA-based reconfigurable systems Space instrumentation and CubeSat technologies Machine learning for signal processing Awards: Excellence in Learning Innovation (FSE Teaching Award, 2022) Highly Commended Finalist – Vice-Chancellor’s Award for Learning Innovation (2022) Innovative Approaches – Highly Commended (FSE Teaching Award, 2020) Key Projects: SmartSat CRC (2020–2026): Smart Satellite Technologies and Analytics Spacecraft Innovation Lab (2021–2022) CubeSat Biological Payload (2019–2022) Teaching Contributions: Led the 'Improving Student Engagement with Anywhere and Any-time Laboratory Access' initiative (2019–2020), enhancing remote lab accessibility for students.
Central Queensland University (CQUniversity Australia)Australia
Dr. Hassan Saeed Khan is a Lecturer (Assistant Professor) at Central Queensland University and an Adjunct Lecturer at the University of New South Wales . He holds a Ph.D. in Built Environment from UNSW (2018-2022), a Master of Science in Architectural Engineering from Politecnico di Milano (2010-2012), and a Bachelor of Science in Building and Architectural Engineering from UET Lahore (2003-2008). His research focuses on zero-energy buildings , radiative cooling materials , and urban heat mitigation . Ph.D. in Built Environment, UNSW Australia (2018-2022) MSc in Architectural Engineering, Politecnico di Milano (2010-2012) BSc in Building and Architectural Engineering, UET Lahore (2003-2008) Dr. Khan specializes in urban climatology , energy-efficient building systems , and climate-responsive urban design . His work includes fluorescent radiative coolers for urban surfaces, seasonal performance modulation of cooling materials, and microclimate evaluation in coastal regions. His research spans thermal performance of buildings, extreme heat event analysis , and renewable energy integration . His recent publications highlight scalable radiative cooling solutions, synoptic weather interactions with urban heat, and green infrastructure benefits in subtropical environments. Key projects include ARC Discovery grants on fluorescent materials and consultancy with BlueScope and Dulux for material performance optimization. HDR Completion Scholarship (UNSW, 2022) Data61 CSIRO Ph.D. Top-up (2019-2022) ADA HDR Research Output Awards (2021, 2022) UniverLecco Gold Merit Scholarship (Politecnico di Milano, 2010-2012) Award of Distinction (KFUPM, 2016-2017) Dr. Khan has supervised research in 4011 Environmental Engineering , 3302 Building , and 3304 Urban Planning . His interdisciplinary approach bridges building science , materials engineering , and climate adaptation . He employs tools like ENVI-met for microclimate analysis and DesignBuilder for energy modeling.
Dr. Xiaoyi Tian is a Researcher at the School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Sydney. They are affiliated with the University of Sydney Nano Institute and specialize in microwave photonics, sensor technology, and machine learning applications. Their research focuses on integrating machine learning with photonic sensors, particularly using microresonators and optical signal processing for high-resolution sensing. Key areas include microwave-photonic hybrid systems, signal processing algorithms, and sensor optimization. Dr. Tian has contributed to advancements in athermal sensors, subwavelength grating resonators, and recurrent neural networks for sensor performance enhancement. Their work spans conferences like OFC, CLEO-PR, and IEEE journals. No formal awards or student advisees are listed, though their publications reflect active collaboration in interdisciplinary research.
Professor Xiaoke Yi is a faculty member at the University of Sydney's School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, serving as Associate Head of Research and Director of the Photonics Research Group. He holds a BEng, MEng, and PhD from Nanyang Technological University (NTU). His research focuses on nanophotonics and integrated microwave photonics, addressing challenges in high-frequency signal processing for communications, defense, and healthcare. Notable achievements include developing non-invasive glucose monitoring technology and contributions to silicon carbide photonics. Awards include the 2018 Women in Industry Award and 2017 Bradfield Award. Research Interests : Professor Yi’s work bridges microwave engineering and optoelectronics, with applications in high-speed communication systems, radar, and biomedical sensors. His current projects involve machine learning-enhanced microwave photonic sensors and integrated photonics for defense and healthcare. Recent breakthroughs include athermal sensors using microring resonators and silicon carbide electro-optic modulators. Publications & Recognition : His work spans over 100 peer-reviewed articles in journals like Nature Communications and Journal of Lightwave Technology . Key themes include sensor design, signal processing algorithms, and photonic materials. Recent trends emphasize machine learning integration for sensor optimization and biomedical applications. Awards : 2018: Women in Industry Award (Engineering category) 2017: Bradfield Award (Engineers Australia) 2017: Australia’s Most Innovative Engineers (Engineers Australia) 2017: Sydney Accelerator Fellowship (SOAR) 2016: Vice-Chancellor’s Award for Research Engagement Labs & Teams : Leads the Photonics Research Group, collaborating with interdisciplinary teams at Sydney Nano Institute. Current projects include inverse design of photonic devices using neural networks and high-resolution optical spectrum analysis.
Dr. Keng-Te Lin is a Research Fellow at RMIT University's School of Science, specializing in advanced materials for energy, photonics, and biomedical applications. His work focuses on metamaterials, radiative cooling, graphene-based technologies, and nanophotonic devices. He supervises research projects on topics like spectral selective radiative cooling, electro-optically tunable waveguides, and machine learning for thermal-photovoltaic systems. Key research interests include developing high-performance materials for thermal management, energy conversion, and biomedical therapies. His recent publications highlight innovations in flexible radiative cooling films, ultrafast heat transfer mechanisms, and scalable manufacturing methods for sustainable cooling solutions. Dr. Lin collaborates on projects involving structured metamaterials for solar thermal energy, plasmonic nanostructures for photodetection, and nanocomposite materials for enhanced catalytic activity. He actively supervises students exploring topics such as photonic topological insulators, perovskite solar cells, and AI-driven material optimization. His research bridges fundamental materials science with applied engineering solutions, targeting applications in renewable energy, environmental sustainability, and healthcare technologies.
Professor Francois Ladouceur is a distinguished academic at the University of New South Wales (UNSW), where he serves in the Faculty of Engineering, specifically within the School of Electrical Engineering and Telecommunications. With a career spanning over three decades, Professor Ladouceur has established himself as a leading expert in photonics, optical engineering, and neural interfaces. His educational background includes: Ph.D. in Optical Communication from The Australian National University (1992) Masters in Solid State Physics from École Polytechnique, Montréal, Canada (1987) B. Eng. in Engineering Physics from École Polytechnique, Montréal, Canada (1985) Professor Ladouceur's research spans several cutting-edge areas in photonics and optical engineering. His work focuses on integrated optics, silica and diamond-based photonics, optical sensing networks, and photonics-based brain/machine interfaces. He has made significant contributions to both fundamental waveguide theory and applied integrated optics, introducing innovative approaches to waveguide path design that have improved the size and ease of design of integrated optics devices. His recent work has particularly emphasized the development of liquid crystal-based optical electrodes for neural interfacing and brain/machine interfaces. Analysis of his recent publications reveals a strong trend toward biomedical applications of photonics, particularly in neural interfaces and optrode technology. His research has evolved from fundamental optical engineering to practical applications in healthcare, with a focus on developing novel optical sensing technologies for electrophysiological measurements. The interdisciplinary nature of his work combines optical engineering, materials science, and biomedical engineering to create innovative solutions for neural interfacing. Professor Ladouceur has secured significant research funding through multiple prestigious grants: ARC Discovery (DP200102825): "A Multi-Optrode Array for Closed-Loop Bionics" ($495k) NHMRC Ideas Grant (APP2002282): "Re-engineering the Future of Electrophysiological Measurements" ($732k) ARC Discovery 2016 (DP160104625): "Design of an optrode for next generation brain-machine interfaces" ($457.6k) CRC Project 2016: "High performance optical telemetry system for ocean monitoring" ($1,014,320) US Office of Naval Research: "Multi-Optrode Array for Neural Interfacing" (US$360,000) Professor Ladouceur has extensive experience in translating research into practical applications, having founded Bandwidth Foundry Pty Ltd after raising approximately $20 million from private and public sources. His work bridges the gap between academic research and commercial applications, with a particular focus on developing novel hybrid opto-electronics devices from initial design through to commercial realization. He collaborates extensively with researchers across disciplines, particularly with Professor Nigel Lovell and other colleagues in biomedical engineering. His laboratory focuses on developing optical technologies for neural interfaces, with current projects including multi-optrode arrays for brain-machine interfaces, optical telemetry systems for various sensing applications, and diamond-based photonic structures. The research group maintains strong connections with industry partners and defense organizations, applying photonics solutions to real-world problems in healthcare, mining safety, and ocean monitoring.
Professor Deanna D'Alessandro is a Professor in the School of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering and Director of The Net Zero Institute at The University of Sydney. Her research focuses on advanced materials such as Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs) for energy efficiency, sustainability, and carbon capture. She holds a BSc (Hons I & Medal) and PhD from James Cook University (2001, 2006), followed by postdoctoral research at the University of Sydney and UC Berkeley. She has been recognized with prestigious fellowships, including the L'Oreal Australia for Women in Science Fellow (2010), Australian Research Council Future Fellow (2018–2022), and Young Tall Poppy Science Award (2011). Her research explores MOFs for carbon capture, electrochemical systems, and photonics, with applications in energy transition and environmental sustainability. She leads projects on Direct Air Capture, 3D printing of nanomaterials, and solid-state spectroelectrochemistry. Notable collaborations include work with Prof. Ben Powell (UQ) and Prof. Adam Micolich (UNSW) on superconductivity and photonic devices. She directs The Net Zero Institute, focusing on multidisciplinary solutions for decarbonization. Education: BSc (Hons I & Medal) and PhD from James Cook University. Awards: Includes ARC Fellowships, L'Oreal Women in Science, and Young Tall Poppy. Grants: Over $6M for CO2 capture materials and collaborations with industry partners like Southern Green Gas Ltd. Labs/Teams: Leads the D'Alessandro Research Group and collaborates with Sydney Nanoscience Hub, Sydney Policy Lab, and international partners. Her work bridges fundamental science and applied technologies, with over 150 publications and patents on CO2 capture and MOF applications.
Professor Martijn de Sterke is a Professor in the Department of Physics at the University of Sydney and a member of the Sydney Nano Institute. He holds a MEng in Applied Physics from Delft University of Technology (1982) and a PhD in Optics from the University of Rochester (1987). His postdoctoral work at the University of Toronto (1988–1990) preceded his faculty appointment at the University of Sydney, where he has contributed significantly to the field of nonlinear optics. His research focuses on nonlinear optics, photonic crystals, soliton dynamics, and plasmonic systems. Notable contributions include studies on soliton microcombs, metamaterial-enhanced optical effects, and relativistic lightsail propulsion concepts. He has pioneered work on pure-quartic solitons and their applications in fiber lasers, as well as investigations into Förster resonance energy transfer in engineered metamaterials. Educations: MEng in Applied Physics, Delft University of Technology (1982) PhD in Optics, University of Rochester (1987) His publications span over 300 works, including key contributions to Optics Express as Editor-in-Chief from 2007–2012. He has received prestigious awards such as the Pawsey Medal (1999), Esther Hoffman Beller Medal (2017), and Beatty Steel Medal (2024). Current research activities include ARC-funded projects on optical microcombs and dispersion-engineered solitons. His work bridges theoretical models and experimental implementations, with applications in ultrafast optics, nanophotonics, and space propulsion systems leveraging optical forces.
Dr. Sudha Mokkapati is an Associate Professor in the Department of Materials Science and Engineering at Monash University. Her research focuses on semiconductor nano-photonics, nano-lasers, and nanostructured solar cells. She holds a PhD from the Australian National University (2008) and has held academic positions at Cardiff University (2016–2019) and postdoctoral roles at ANU's Centre for Sustainable Energy Systems and Research School of Physics and Engineering. Education: M.Sc. Physics, University of Hyderabad M.Tech. Materials Science and Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur Ph.D. Physics, Australian National University Research Interests: Semiconductor nanostructures for optoelectronics Nanowire-based lasers and solar cells Photon management in thin-film solar cells Plasmonic and nanophotonic device engineering Her recent publications emphasize advancements in gas sensing technologies, photonic resonators, and nanoscale optoelectronic devices. She leads projects on chemical detection platforms and wafer-scale 2D heterostructure synthesis. Collaborations span international institutions, addressing sustainable energy and nanotechnology challenges aligned with UN Sustainable Development Goals. Grants/Projects: All-electronic platform for real-time toxic gas detection (2024–2025) Low-cost wireless sensors for chemical hazards (2021–2023) van der Waals Epitaxy for flexible optoelectronics (2017–2020) Labs/Teams: Engaged in nanophotonics and materials engineering research groups at Monash, focusing on device fabrication and characterization for energy and sensing applications.
Prof. Alan Kin-tak Lau is an Adjunct Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering & Product Design at Swinburne University of Technology. He previously served as Pro Vice-Chancellor (International and Digital Research), overseeing global research collaborations and digital innovation. His expertise spans advanced materials, manufacturing, and product design, with a focus on aerospace applications, energy storage, and sustainable technologies. Lau holds adjunct roles at Chonbuk National University and is a Fellow of multiple prestigious institutions, including the European Academy of Sciences and the Royal Aeronautical Society. Affiliations: Swinburne University of Technology Roles: Adjunct Professor, Former Pro Vice-Chancellor Research interests include nanomaterials for energy storage (e.g., supercapacitors, hydrogen systems), composite materials for aerospace, and eco-friendly manufacturing. He leads interdisciplinary projects like the Aerostructures Innovation Research Hub and the Research Centre for New Energy Transition. Lau has secured over AUD 100M in grants and supervised numerous PhD projects on topics like graphene composites and additive manufacturing. Notable awards include the VEBLEO Best Scientist Award (2020), UGC Teaching Excellence Award (2013), and the Young Engineer of the Year Award (2004). He chairs international conferences and serves on boards of companies like King’s Flair International. His work bridges academia and industry, with patents and commercial applications in sustainable materials and EV technologies.
Prof Ben Buchler is a Professor at The Australian National University (ANU), affiliated with the Physics Education Centre and the ARC Centre of Excellence for Quantum Computation and Communication Technology. His research focuses on quantum optics, atomic sensors, and optomechanics. He leads projects on quantum memory systems, gravitational wave detection, and exotic physics searches using global magnetometer networks. Research Interests: Quantum Communication and Information Cold Atom Physics Optical Sensors and Magnetometry Optomechanical Systems Gravitational Wave Detection Technologies Recent work highlights advancements in room-temperature quantum memory, cross-phase modulation in atomic systems, and applications of optomechanics for single-phonon control. Collaborations include global initiatives like the GNOME (Global Network of Optical Magnetometers) for dark matter and gravitational wave studies. Grants and Projects: ARC Centre of Excellence for Quantum Computation and Communication Technology (2018–2025) Projects on atomic sensors for dark matter, rotation, and magnetic field detection Labs/Teams: Active in the Physics Education Centre and collaborates with international teams on quantum optics and sensor technologies.
