Dr. Zhen Peng is a Research Fellow at Curtin University's School of Civil and Mechanical Engineering, part of the Faculty of Science and Engineering. He holds an ARC Early Career Industry Fellowship (2025–2028), focusing on developing cost-effective bridge monitoring systems using computer vision and edge computing in collaboration with Main Roads WA. His work bridges structural engineering, IoT/edge computing, and machine learning to enhance infrastructure safety. Dr. Peng earned his PhD from Curtin University (Chancellor's Commendation, 2022). His research emphasizes structural dynamics, nonlinear damage detection, and mobile crowdsensing frameworks for infrastructure monitoring. He has published extensively in top journals like Engineering Structures and Structural Control and Health Monitoring , receiving notable awards such as the 2023 Best Paper Award and a Gold Medal in the China Postdoctoral Innovation Competition. His current projects include deploying IoT-driven systems for real-time bridge condition assessment and training students via available 2025 PhD scholarships. Dr. Peng teaches courses in civil engineering and structural analysis, contributing to both academia and industry through innovation in smart infrastructure technologies.
Professor Tilak Chandratilleke is a faculty member in the School of Civil and Mechanical Engineering at Curtin University, part of the Faculty of Science and Engineering. He holds a PhD from the University of Cambridge and has extensive post-nominals including MIEAust, CPEng, and MASME. His research focuses on advanced thermal engineering, computational fluid dynamics (CFD), and heat transfer optimization. Key areas of interest include thermal energy storage systems, fluid flow in curved ducts, and thermal design for industrial applications. He also serves in the Office of the Provost, contributing to academic governance. Research Interests: - Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) modeling of complex thermal systems. - Heat and mass transfer in energy storage and manufacturing processes. - Design and analysis of heat exchangers and thermal recuperators. - Fluid dynamics in curved geometries and secondary vortex structures. - Applications in renewable energy systems and advanced manufacturing. Selected Publications (2022–2010): - Investigated high-temperature thermal energy storage using CaCO₃/Al₂O₃ reactors (2022). - Developed numerical models for metal hydride thermal storage systems (2021). - Analyzed boiling heat transfer in curved ducts and laser-assisted machining thermal effects (2020–2019). - Advanced CFD methodologies for convective boiling and turbulent flow modeling (2018–2016). - Pioneered studies on Dean vortices and microfluidic heat enhancement (2011–2010). Teaching: - Thermodynamics and Heat Transfer. - Fluid Mechanics and Engineering Applications. Labs/Teams: - Involved in Curtin’s thermal energy and advanced manufacturing research groups. - Collaborates with industry partners on renewable energy and thermal system optimization projects.
Professor Christopher Berndt is a Distinguished Professor in Surface Science and Engineering at the School of Engineering, Swinburne University of Technology, where he joined in 2008 as the founding professor of this discipline. He previously held founding professorships at James Cook University and was a tenured professor at Stony Brook University, USA, where he remains an Adjunct Professor. He also served as a Fellow at NASA-Lewis Research Center, working on thermal barrier coatings. His leadership in professional societies includes serving as President of the Thermal Spray Society (ASM) and being inducted into the Thermal Spray Hall of Fame in 2007. His research interests center on materials engineering , particularly surface science , thermal spray technologies , high-entropy alloys , and coatings for extreme environments . He also contributes significantly to biomedical engineering through bioactive coatings and clean energy via advanced materials for batteries and hydrogen technologies. His work bridges fundamental materials science with industrial applications in aerospace, energy, and manufacturing. The recent publications reveal a strong focus on advanced thermal spray techniques such as HVOF and HVAF, development of high-entropy and medium-entropy alloys, and innovative coating applications in energy storage, corrosion resistance, and high-temperature protection. His research consistently emphasizes microstructural control, phase stability, and mechanical performance under extreme conditions. Inducted into the Thermal Spray Hall of Fame (2007) Fellow of the Australian Institution of Engineers Fellow of ASM International Fellow of The Institution of Metallurgists (UK) Fellow of ASME, ACS, and ACerS Chartered Engineer (UK) Professional Engineer (Australia) Member of the College of Bioengineers (Australia) Professor Berndt actively supervises numerous PhD students, with current projects on high-entropy alloys, internal pipe coatings, and biomedical surface engineering. He has secured extensive research funding from organizations including the Australian Research Council (ARC), Department of Defence, Office of Naval Research (US), and industry partners such as Entromat and Amaero Engineering. He leads major initiatives such as the ARC Training Centre in Surface Engineering for Advanced Materials (SEAM) and has contributed to commercialization projects in space vehicle manufacturing. He is the Founding Editor and now Editor Emeritus of the Journal of Thermal Spray Technology and has edited over 10 conference proceedings. His research network spans across Australia, the USA, and Thailand, reflecting a strong international collaborative footprint in advanced materials research.
Professor Massimiliano Tani Bertuol is a distinguished academic specializing in economics at UNSW Canberra's School of Business, where he has served as Professor since 2015. His professional affiliations extend beyond UNSW as he is an Associate Investigator/Member at CEPAR; Ageing Futures; uDASH; AI Institute; and Cyber security (IFCYBER). Additionally, he maintains international connections as a Research Fellow at the Institute for the Future of Labor (IZA) in Germany since 2005, an Associate Member at Macquarie University's Centre for Workforce Futures since 2018, and a Research Fellow at the Global Labor Organization (GLO) in Maastricht since 2016. His educational background reflects a strong foundation in economics and business, having earned a PhD in Economics from the Australian National University (2003), a Master of Science in Economics from the London School of Economics (1992), and a Bachelor's degree in Business/Economics from Bocconi University in Milan, Italy (1989). His academic journey has positioned him as a leading researcher in human capital economics with international recognition. Professor Tani Bertuol's research centers on human capital development and its economic implications. His work examines how human capital can be fostered, efficiently transferred internationally through migration, and how it affects productivity, innovation, and economic growth at both firm and national levels. His research spans multiple regions including Australia, Europe, the US, Africa, and China, with particular focus on migration economics, labor market outcomes, and the economic impacts of education and skills. His current research agenda includes non-pecuniary incentives, behavioral/financial decisions in China, occupational licensing, language skills and economic assimilation, AI-human interactions in health contexts, and labor mobility and productivity. Analysis of his recent publications reveals significant interdisciplinary trends bridging economics with public health, environmental science, and technology. His work connects migration dynamics with economic outcomes, examines household financial behaviors through gender lenses, and investigates the complex relationships between environmental factors like air pollution and economic activities including education investment and entrepreneurship. More recent work explores AI applications in health and the economic implications of pandemic responses, demonstrating his ability to address contemporary challenges through rigorous economic analysis. 2023: UNSW ARC Postgraduate Council (Arc PGC) award for excellence in research supervision 2011: Vice-Chancellor Award for Teaching Excellence 2011: Faculty Award for Teaching Excellence for teaching economics Professor Tani Bertuol has successfully supervised 4 PhD students to completion, with 1 submitted dissertation and 5 currently under supervision. His active research program is supported by significant grant funding including an ARC Linkage Project (2023-27) on regional Australia's skills shortages and high-skill refugees' employment ($354,811), an ARC Discovery Project (2019-23) on migrant aging and wellbeing ($478,000), and a NUW Alliance grant (2021-23) on hearing screening and academic outcomes ($73,367). He serves as Associate Editor for Social Indicators Research and Higher Education Research & Development, contributing to scholarly discourse in his fields of expertise. His teaching portfolio includes courses in data analytics, finance, and professional executive education focused on cost-benefit analysis and data communication. He teaches ZBUS2333 Data Analytics and Visualisation, ZBUS8105 Finance and Investment Appraisal, and ZBUS8149 Introduction to Finance, demonstrating his commitment to developing the next generation of economics professionals with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.
Dr. Yu Zhang is a Lecturer of Data Science at the School of Business, UNSW Canberra. His academic career focuses on text mining, knowledge and information management, social computing, and bibliometric analysis, with interdisciplinary applications in areas such as sustainable logistics, supply chain management, and net-zero energy solutions. Fields of Interest: Text Mining, Information Management, Social Computing, Bibliometric Analysis, Machine Learning for Information Systems, Heterogeneous Network Analysis, Data Mining for Asset Management, Sustainable Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Net-zero Energy in Green Buildings, and Transportation. Grants: Served as CI in projects like "Online health monitoring in Li-ion batteries via trustworthy AI" (ACT Government, $1.22M) and "Delivering net-zero energy buildings" (TRaCE Lab to Market, $1.05M). Awards: Best Paper Award (Runner-up) at ADMA 2024 and Excellent Paper Award at ICEBE 2024. Teaching: Coordinated courses in Data Analytics, Workforce Planning Research, Business Capstone, and Logistics Intelligence with Big Data Analysis. Supervision: Guided research on topics like federated learning for healthcare fraud detection, blockchain-based carbon offset management, and tier-based supply chain visibility. His publications span materials science and photovoltaic technologies, with a focus on thin-film solar cells and defect passivation methods. For collaboration or supervision inquiries, contact him at m.yuzhang@unsw.edu.au .
Patrick Kluth is a Professor at the Research School of Physics, Australian National University, leading a research group focused on swift heavy ion-modified materials and nanopore technology. His work bridges materials science, physics, and biomedical applications. Education : Dipl. Phys. from Düsseldorf, Germany; PhD in Physics from RWTH Aachen, Germany (2002, summa cum laude). Research Interests center on: Ion track technology for solid-state nanopore fabrication Advanced materials characterization (SAXS, X-ray absorption spectroscopy) Defect engineering in semiconductors and superconductors Nano-fabrication and semiconductor processing methods Bio-sensor development and ion separation technologies Recent Research Trends show a focus on: Developing affordable microcontroller-assisted nanopore fabrication platforms Enhancing flux pinning in superconductors via ion irradiation Engineering nanomaterials for space applications (carbon-fibre composites) Exploring radiation effects on perovskite solar cells and graphene-enhanced composites Combining machine learning with nanopore sensing for biomarker detection Scientific Awards : Feodor-Lynen Fellowship Borcherts-Medal for PhD excellence Three ARC Fellowships (Postdoctoral, Research, Future) Leadership Roles : Head of Department (2018-2020), Associate Director HDR (2020-2023). His projects include collaborations on Alzheimer's detection sensors and carbon-fibre additive manufacturing for space applications.
Prof. Nan Yang is a Professor at the Australian National University's ANU College of Engineering, Computing and Cybernetics, leading the Information and Signal Processing Cluster and the Emerging Communications Laboratory. He holds a PhD in Electronic Engineering from Beijing Institute of Technology (2011) and has held postdoctoral roles at CSIRO and UNSW before joining ANU in 2014. His research focuses on terahertz communications, ultra-reliable low-latency systems, and cyber-physical security, with notable contributions to molecular communications and massive MIMO systems. Education: B.S. in Electronics, China Agricultural University (2005) M.S. in Electronic Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology (2007) Ph.D. in Electronic Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology (2011) Key Roles: Associate Dean for Higher Degree Research (2019–2021) Editorial Board Member of IEEE Transactions on Molecular, Biological, and Multi-Scale Communications, IEEE Communications Letters, and others Organizer of workshops at IEEE ICC, GlobeCOM, and ACM MobiCOM His research interests span terahertz communication systems, cyber-physical security, and intelligent communications. Recent work emphasizes secure beamforming, UAV-assisted networks, and molecular communication protocols. He has authored over 180 publications and secured grants totaling millions in funding for projects like the Ultra-Fast and Secure Terahertz Communications for 6G Wireless Systems (2023–2026). Awards & Recognition: IEEE ComSoc Distinguished Lecturer (2023–2024) Best Paper Awards at IEEE ICC 2024, GlobeCOM 2022, and VTC Spring 2013 Exemplary Editor/Reviewer Awards from IEEE Transactions Grants & Projects: iLAuNCH: SWIFT-iLAuNCH Project A (SC-9) (2024–2026) Ultra-Fast and Secure Terahertz Communications for 6G (2023–2026) Facility for Energy Security and Resilience Research (2022) His lab, the Emerging Communications Laboratory, develops cutting-edge solutions for 6G networks, including hybrid beamforming for terahertz systems and secure short-packet protocols. Collaborations span global institutions, emphasizing interdisciplinary research in communications and signal processing.
Dr. Tim Lynar serves as a Senior Lecturer at the University of New South Wales Canberra within the School of Systems & Computing. With a strong background in both academic research and industry practice, he has established himself as a leading figure in cyber security and computer science. His work bridges theoretical research with practical applications, focusing on innovative solutions for complex computing challenges across multiple domains including IoT security, machine learning applications in cyber defense, and high-performance distributed systems. Dr. Lynar's research interests span a wide spectrum of cyber security applications, with particular emphasis on the application of machine learning techniques to security challenges and the innovative use of epidemiological approaches to understand and combat cyber threats. His work in modeling & simulation, statistical & data analysis, network & systems administration, and high-performance distributed computing demonstrates his commitment to developing comprehensive security frameworks that address evolving threats in digital environments. The interdisciplinary nature of his research connects computer science with biological modeling approaches, creating novel methodologies for understanding security vulnerabilities. Analysis of Dr. Lynar's recent publications reveals a strong trend toward applying advanced machine learning techniques to cyber security challenges, particularly in IoT environments. His work increasingly integrates epidemiological models with security frameworks, creating a unique approach to threat detection and mitigation. The research spans practical applications in network security, drone systems, and AI security, demonstrating both theoretical depth and real-world applicability. A notable pattern is the consistent application of cutting-edge deep learning architectures like Vision Transformers and Variational Autoencoders to solve specific security problems across diverse domains. IBM Master Inventor (2016) Multiple IBM Innovation Awards (2011-2018) Client Value Outstanding Technical Achievement Awards (2015-2016) High Value Patent Awards (2014-2016) Best Article Award – International Journal of Information Systems & Social Change (2010) Multiple research scholarships from 2007-2010 Dr. Lynar's extensive patent portfolio demonstrates significant industry impact, with numerous issued US patents spanning diverse applications from energy efficient supercomputing to vehicle collision avoidance and drone-based microbial analysis. His research has attracted substantial industry collaboration, particularly with IBM, where he received multiple prestigious awards including the IBM Master Inventor designation. The practical applications of his work are evident in the wide range of patented technologies addressing real-world security and optimization challenges across multiple industries. Dr. Lynar's work spans multiple research domains simultaneously, with active projects in cyber security, drone systems, AI safety, and maritime traffic analysis. His research methodology consistently combines theoretical modeling with practical implementation, often leveraging simulation environments to test and validate approaches before real-world deployment. The interdisciplinary nature of his work creates connections between traditionally separate fields, enabling innovative solutions to complex problems.
Dr. Charles Raymond Sarimuthu is a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Electrical and Computer Systems Engineering at Monash University Malaysia. He holds a Ph.D. in Electrical Power Engineering from National Energy University, Malaysia. His research focuses on voltage control, power transformers, distribution systems, renewable energy, and smart grids. He actively supervises undergraduate and postgraduate students and has published extensively in high-impact journals such as Electric Power Systems Research and Renewable Energy . Dr. Sarimuthu has collaborated on projects including the Electric Field Imaging (EFI) Sensor for Comprehensive Static Charge Analysis (2024-2025) and the Fundamental study on memristor switching performances (2023-2026). He has also led the Investigation of on-load tap changer transformer operation (2019-2022), demonstrating expertise in grid stability and renewable integration. Teaching commitments include ECE3051 - Electrical Energy Systems , ECE4053 - Electrical Energy-Generation and Supply , and ECE5886/6886 - Smart Grids . He is a member of professional bodies such as the Board of Engineers Malaysia (BEM) and IEEE. His work aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goals related to affordable and clean energy (SDG7) and industry innovation (SDG9). Recent research highlights include game theory approaches for voltage control and adaptive synchronverter technologies for solar power systems.
Dr. Jemma King is an Honorary Fellow at the School of Psychology , The University of Queensland , focusing on biomarkers of stress and emotional intelligence. She has contributed to research on workplace stress, military psychology, and psychoneuroimmunology. Education: PhD in Emotional Intelligence and Workplace Stress (2020), Honours Thesis on Emotional Intelligence and Cyber-Ostracism (2012) Her research explores how emotional intelligence buffers physiological stress responses in virtual environments and high-stress occupations. Recent work links circadian alignment to psychological resilience and leadership performance. Publications span journal articles , conference proceedings , and theses , emphasizing cortisol and HRV as stress markers. She supervises doctoral students, including projects on circadian rhythms and leadership stress , and has received funding from the Commonwealth Department of Defence. Dr. King is also a media expert for biomarkers of stress testing, wearable emotion tracking (WHOOP, Wim Hof Method), and workplace interventions.
Dr. Kaie Maennel is a Lecturer at the School of Computer and Mathematical Sciences, part of the Faculty of Sciences, Engineering and Technology at the University of Adelaide. Her research focuses on Human Aspects of Cyber Security, including Cyber Awareness and Hygiene, Serious Games (Cyber Defence Exercises), and Learning Analytics in Cyber Training. She also investigates Usable Security, Information Security Culture, and Cybersecurity Risk Management. With over 20 years of corporate experience in Audit and Assurance at Deloitte, she holds professional certifications: ACCA, CIA, and Estonian CPA. Her research interests emphasize bridging cybersecurity education with practical applications, leveraging experiential learning and advanced analytics. She actively participates in high-profile cybersecurity initiatives like the NATO CCDCOE’s Locked Shields workshop, contributing to exercise design and assessment frameworks. Dr. Maennel is eligible to supervise Masters and PhD students as a Co-Supervisor, focusing on cybersecurity education, exercise methodologies, and human-centric security strategies. She prioritizes interdisciplinary approaches and real-world impact through collaborations with industry and academic partners. Her work spans cyber defense exercise ontology development, cultural adaptation of cybersecurity programs, and leveraging behavioral genetics insights. Recent trends in her publications highlight the integration of AI into cybersecurity training and the critical role of human factors in mitigating cyber risks.
Professor Craig Wheeler is a distinguished academic in the School of Engineering at the University of Newcastle, specializing in Mechanical Engineering with a focus on bulk solids handling and belt conveyor technology. As Associate Director of the Centre for Bulk Solids and Particulate Technologies and Deputy Chairman for the Australian Society for Bulk Solid Handling, he has established the university as a global leader in fundamental and applied research within this field. Wheeler's research interests primarily center on reducing the energy intensity and environmental impact of ore and mineral transportation globally. His work develops novel theoretical approaches to model and optimize belt conveyor and bulk handling systems, with significant contributions in energy-efficient transportation, dust emission control, and innovative conveying technologies like the Rail Conveyor system. His research bridges fundamental computational techniques with practical industrial applications, addressing real-world challenges in bulk material handling. His extensive publication record demonstrates trends toward increasingly sophisticated modeling techniques, combining continuum mechanics, discrete element methods, and computational fluid dynamics to solve complex problems in bulk material flow and energy consumption. Recent work shows particular emphasis on large-diameter idler rollers for energy savings, rail-running conveyor systems, and advanced dust control methodologies. 2023 Engineers Australia - Australian Society for Bulk Solids Handling 2017 Significant Contributions to Engineers Australia's Warman Design and Build Competition (Weir Minerals) 2017 Australian Council of Engineering Deans National Award for Engineering Education Excellence 2016 Innovative Technology Award (Australian Bulk Handling) 2010 Rising Star Award (Newcastle Innovation, The University of Newcastle) 2009 Pro-Vice Chancellor's Award for Research Excellence 2006 Best Research and Development Project (Australian Bulk Handling Review) 2000 A.W. Roberts Award (Australian Society for Bulk Solids Handling) Professor Wheeler has successfully led numerous Linkage Projects with major companies including Rio Tinto, Veyance Technologies, and Laing O'Rourke, securing significant cash and in-kind contributions for research projects. His industrial consulting experience, built on a 10-year engineering career with BHP, provides valuable insights that bridge fundamental research with practical applications. He actively supervises research students and contributes to professional development courses both within Australia and internationally. As a key member of the Centre for Bulk Solids and Particulate Technologies in association with TUNRA Bulk Solids, Wheeler leads research teams focused on developing eco-friendly conveying solutions. His work has resulted in new licensed technologies, internationally recognized testing methods, design guidelines, and Australian Standards that have transformed industry practices worldwide.
Professor Yves Brechet, affiliated with Monash University 's Materials Science & Engineering department, is a leading researcher in metallurgy and materials microstructure evolution. His work focuses on phase transformations, computational modeling, and sustainable materials development aligned with UN SDGs.
Dr Leok Lee is a Lecturer in the School of Electrical and Mechanical Engineering at the University of Adelaide . He is also an active member of the Centre for Energy Technology , contributing to cutting-edge research in renewable energy systems. Research Interests: Renewable energy systems, with a focus on solar thermal energy and energy storage. System integration and optimisation of complex transient energy systems. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and experimental design for energy applications. Decarbonisation of heavy industry through clean energy technologies. His research spans from fundamental studies in heat transfer and fluid mechanics to applied engineering solutions for decarbonising industrial processes. He has led and contributed to projects funded by ARENA and HILT CRC, targeting the integration of concentrated solar thermal energy into industrial applications such as the Bayer Alumina process. Supervision & Mentorship: Dr Lee is eligible to supervise Masters and PhD students and actively mentors undergraduate, Masters, and PhD candidates. He encourages prospective students to contact him via email to discuss research opportunities. Contact: Email: leok.lee@adelaide.edu.au Location: Room 3, Engineering South, North Terrace Campus
Professor Ben Horan is the Head of School of Engineering at Deakin University , Faculty of Science Engineering and Built Environment. He holds a Doctor of Philosophy and Bachelor of Engineering from Deakin University, with expertise in electrical engineering , control systems , and human-centred computing . As a leading researcher in virtual reality (VR) applications, he focuses on safety training, aged care, and extended reality (XR) systems. PhD in Electrical Engineering (Deakin University) Graduate Certificate of Higher Education (Deakin University) Bachelor of Engineering (Deakin University) His research spans VR for electrical safety training , automated vehicle interactions , and XR applications in museums . His work includes grants from the Department of Health, Melbourne Water Corporation, and City of Greater Bendigo. Recent publications analyze 360° video realism, cognitive load in virtual workplaces, and AR for Industry 5.0. Professor Horan supervises PhD candidates exploring topics like autonomous vehicle pedestrian interactions , VR stress mitigation , and industrial XR systems . He has completed supervision of 10+ PhD and Master’s students.
