معرفی
Professor Rona Chandrawati is a faculty member at the University of New South Wales (UNSW) School of Chemical Engineering and Co-Director of the Australian Centre for Nanomedicine. She holds a BSc in Biotechnology from Monash University and a PhD in Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering from the University of Melbourne (2012). Following a Marie Curie Fellowship at Imperial College London, she established her research group in Australia in 2015. Her academic trajectory includes roles as ARC DECRA Fellow, Scientia Senior Lecturer, and promotion to Professor in 2025.
Her research integrates nanotechnology, biomaterials, and sensing platforms to address challenges in medicine and food safety. Key areas include:
- Development of colorimetric nanosensors for pathogens and biomarkers
- Enzyme-mimetic catalysts for nitric oxide delivery in cardiovascular therapies
- Nanocoatings for implantable medical devices
- Polydiacetylene-based systems for food spoilage detection
Publication analysis reveals a strong focus on translational applications of nanomaterials, with recurring themes in biosensor innovation, drug delivery optimization, and diagnostic tool development. Her work consistently bridges materials science with clinical and environmental needs.
Awards & Honors:
- Le Fèvre Medal (Australian Academy of Science, 2023)
- Materials Today Rising Star Award (2022)
- NSW Early Career Researcher of the Year (2021)
- World Economic Forum 40 Young Scientists Under 40 (2018)
- Elsevier Woman in Chemical Engineering Award (2015)
She has attracted over AUD 18M in competitive funding as Lead/Co-Chief Investigator, including NHMRC and ARC grants. As head of the NanoFAM Laboratory, she mentors doctoral candidates and postdoctoral researchers, with alumni holding positions at Oxford, Tokyo, and industry leaders. Current teaching includes advanced courses in Particle Systems Engineering and Nanomaterials in Medicine.
