Darson Li

Dr. Darson Li is a Senior Lecturer in the School of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering at UNSW Sydney. His research focuses on engineering education innovations, biomedical fluid mechanics, and advanced materials for drug delivery. He holds a PhD in Mechanical Engineering from UNSW and has held academic roles at UNSW and Macquarie University since 2013.

Education:

• PhD in Mechanical Engineering (UNSW, 2019)
• Bachelor of Engineering (Mechanical Engineering) with First Class Honours and University Medal (UNSW, 2015)
• Bachelor of Commerce (Accounting and Finance) (UNSW, 2015)

Research interests include engineering pedagogy, nanoparticle-based therapies, microfluidics, and discrete element modeling. He has received awards such as the University Medal (2015), Australian Postgraduate Award (2015), and multiple UNSW Dean’s Awards.

His articles address AI in engineering education, cardiovascular modeling, and nanofluidics. He leads grants like the 2024 Faculty of Engineering EFFECT Grant ($20,000) for 3D CAD plagiarism detection. Currently supervises PhD students in STEM diversity, biomechanics, and coronary artery modeling.

Engagement roles include Co-chair of the UNSW Early Career Academics Network and member of the Australasian Association for Engineering Education. Teaches courses like MECH3110 Mechanical Design and MMAN1130 Design and Manufacturing.

Labs/Teams: Active in UNSW’s Engineering Education Focused Communities and collaborates with industry on drug delivery systems and sustainable materials.