Niusha Shafi Abady is an Associate Professor at Charles Darwin University's Faculty of Science and Technology (Sydney Campus), specializing in Computational Intelligence and its real-world applications. Her expertise spans Machine Learning, Data Analytics, and Expert System Design, with a focus on bridging academia and industry through AI-driven solutions. She is the inventor of a computational optimization algorithm and founder of Ai-Labz (https://www.cognobit.com/ai-labz), a predictive analysis tool for businesses. Her research emphasizes smart decision-making systems for energy storage, healthcare, and sustainable development goals. Key research areas include Particle Swarm Optimization, Proton-Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells, Virtual Reality applications, and Fuzzy-Neural Systems. She has collaborated internationally on projects addressing energy efficiency, medical diagnostics, and agricultural monitoring. Awards: Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (UK) Labs/Teams: Ai-Labz (Cognobit) Grants/Advising: Supervised numerous HDR candidates and developed industry-academia partnerships. Her recent publications explore XAI in smart buildings, quantum machine learning, and AI ethics, reflecting her commitment to both technological innovation and societal impact.
Lindon Roberts is a Lecturer in the School of Mathematics and Statistics at the University of Sydney . He holds a DPhil (Doctor of Philosophy) from the University of Oxford and previously served as an MSI Fellow at the Australian National University. His research focuses on numerical optimization, including nonconvex, derivative-free, and stochastic optimization, with applications in machine learning. He currently teaches courses such as MATH2070 (Optimization and Financial Mathematics) and FMAT3888 (Projects in Financial Mathematics). Education & Professional Background: PhD (DPhil) in Mathematics, University of Oxford MSI Fellow, Australian National University Research Interests: Numerical optimization techniques Derivative-free and stochastic optimization methods Algorithm design for machine learning applications Nonconvex optimization challenges His work bridges theoretical optimization and practical implementation, particularly in imaging and data-driven fields. Funding & Grants: 2024: 'Robust Derivative-Free Algorithms for Complex Optimisation Problems' (Australian Research Council DECRA) 2022: 'Theory and Algorithms for Numerical Optimisation' (University of Sydney Faculty Startup) Key Research Trends in Publications: Recent articles emphasize optimization algorithms for imaging (e.g., X-ray and neutron beam techniques) and bilevel learning frameworks. His work on inexact hypergradients and scalable subspace methods highlights advancements in handling complex optimization landscapes.
Dr. Amy Page is a Senior Lecturer in Pharmacy at the University of Western Australia's School of Allied Health and the inaugural Director of the Centre for Optimisation of Medicines. Her research focuses on deprescribing, quality use of medicines in geriatrics, and reducing polypharmacy-related harm in older adults. She has received over $13M in funding, published 160+ articles, and led influential projects like the Opti-med trial and development of the MATCH-D framework. Education & Qualifications: PhD (2017) MClinPharm (Clinical Pharmacy) GradDipBiostat (Biostatistics) GradCertDMEd (Diabetes Management Education) GradCertHProfEd (Health Professional Education) Research Interests: Dr. Page's work addresses medication optimization for older adults, with a focus on deprescribing strategies, polypharmacy reduction, and improving medication safety in aged care settings. She also develops clinical guidelines and educational programs for pharmacists. Key Achievements: Recipient of Australian Pharmacist of the Year (2024) and Young Pharmacist of the Year (2015) 2022 Vice-Chancellor’s Early Career Research Award Lead developer of national standards for pharmacist prescribing and aged care medication management Course Director for Doctor of Pharmacy Practice and Advanced Clinical Practice programs Grants & Impact: Over $13M in funding secured, leading projects such as the Centre of Research Excellence in Medicines and Ageing (CREMA) and the Safe Recovery initiative reducing hospital falls. Her work has influenced national policies like the APC accreditation standards and international frameworks like the Global Competency Framework. Teaching & Leadership: Oversees pharmacy postgraduate programs and pioneered microcredentials in clinical skills, prescribing, and diabetes education. Served as State President of the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia and on the Pharmacy Board of Australia.
Sobhan (Sean) Arisian is Associate Professor of Supply Chain and Logistics at La Trobe Business School. He leads the Sustainable Operations Management discipline and serves as Associate Investigator at the ARC Training Centre in Optimisation Technologies (OPTIMA). Research focuses on supply chain resilience, digitalization, and sustainability—particularly decarbonization of maritime transport and disaster relief logistics. Recent publications demonstrate strong emphasis on quantitative optimization models, with recurring themes in: Robust optimization for disruption management Sustainable logistics decarbonization Humanitarian supply chain coordination Quantum computing applications in operations Awarded the Inaugural Collaborative Research Award by BAM/ANZAM and Outstanding Reviewer recognition. Secured $382,742 from Australian Government for Quantum Enhanced Optimisation project and $234,400 DFAT National Focused Grant. Collaborates with University of Cambridge scholars and industry partners on digital transformation strategies. Editorial roles include Associate Editor for Transportation Research Part E and IEEE Transactions on Engineering Management.
Dr. Jiaming Ma is a post-doctoral researcher at RMIT University's Centre for Innovative Structures and Materials (CISM), working on the ARC Laureate Fellowship project. His research focuses on material and structural innovations for sustainable civil engineering, including rammed earth, metamaterials, and topology optimization. He holds a Researcher academic rank and is affiliated with the School of Engineering's Department of School of Engineering. Dr. Ma has received notable awards such as the 2022 Hangai Prize and Best Paper Award. He has led roles in organizing academic symposia and professional associations, including the Chinese Association of Professionals and Scholars in Australia. His work emphasizes sustainable construction and digital fabrication methods. Research Interests: Rammed earth, Sustainable building materials, Topology optimisation, Digital Construction, Computational morphogenesis, Shell structures. These areas address environmental sustainability and advanced structural solutions. Key achievements include pioneering bio-binder stabilization for rammed earth and developing deployable tubular structures. His articles span structural optimization, metamaterials, and sustainable design, reflecting interdisciplinary contributions to civil engineering and materials science. Awards include the Hangai Prize for shell structure innovation, DNA Paris Design Award, and leadership in academic conferences. He supervises research projects on metamaterials and rammed earth construction. Professional contributions include roles as President of the Chinese Association of Professionals in Australia and organizing the IASS Annual Symposium 2023. His work bridges academic research with industry applications, particularly in eco-friendly construction practices.
Dr Adrianne Jenner is a Senior Lecturer in the School of Mathematical Sciences at Queensland University of Technology (QUT). She holds a PhD in Applied Mathematics from the University of Sydney (2015-2019), and conducted postdoctoral research at the Université de Montréal (2019-2021) and the University of Sydney. Her research focuses on mathematical biology, particularly oncology, virotherapy, immunology, and agent-based modelling. She is an active member of professional societies including the Society for Mathematical Biology and the Australian Mathematical Society. Her teaching spans abstract mathematical reasoning, calculus, and mathematical biology applications. Jenner's research emphasizes computational approaches to understand disease mechanisms, including cancer drug resistance, tumor microenvironment dynamics, and in silico clinical trials. She has contributed to high-impact studies on topics like glioblastoma immunotherapy, coral bleaching, and multiple sclerosis pathogenesis. Jenner actively engages in public outreach, including media appearances on ABC and science festivals. Her work bridges theoretical models with real-world applications, leveraging agent-based simulations and Bayesian methods to address challenges in healthcare and environmental science. Jenner collaborates extensively with interdisciplinary teams to translate mathematical insights into actionable strategies for disease treatment and ecological conservation.
Dr. Karim Sherif Mostafa Hassan Ibrahim is a Lecturer (Practice) at the Malaysia School of Engineering, Monash University. His expertise spans Civil Engineering with a focus on Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Optimization Algorithms, Geotechnical Engineering, and Hydrology. He holds a PhD from Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR) and has industry experience with companies like HACENT Consultant Sdn Bhd and Minconsult. Education: PhD in Civil Engineering, UTAR (2024) BEng (Hons) Civil Engineering, UNITEN (2019) Foundation in Civil Engineering, UNITEN (2015) His research integrates AI and optimization techniques for hydrological forecasting and reservoir management. Notable projects include Klang Gate Dam reservoir inflow prediction and geotechnical material analysis using polymer-based curing agents. He is a registered professional engineer with awards for academic excellence and leadership. Teaching commitments include courses like CIV3285, CIV4261, and ENG1011. His work bridges academic research and industry applications in civil infrastructure and sustainable water management.
Professor Marcus White is a distinguished academic and practitioner in architecture and urban design at Swinburne University of Technology, where he serves as Professor in the School of Design and Architecture. He co-directs the architectural firm Harrison and White Pty Ltd and leads the Spatio-Temporal Research Urban Design and Architecture Lab (STRUDAL) at Swinburne. His work bridges academia and professional practice, focusing on sustainable urban development, digital design, and healthcare environments. Education: PhD in Spatial Information Architecture, RMIT University (2009) Professor White’s research centers on innovative urban design solutions using computational methods such as parametric modeling, agent-based systems, virtual and augmented reality, and machine learning. His work addresses critical urban challenges including walkability, noise pollution, aging populations, and equitable access to public space. He also pioneers patient-centered design in stroke rehabilitation, integrating clinical insights with architectural innovation through Living Lab frameworks and VR-based co-design. His recent publications span topics such as pedestrian safety in metro stations, traffic noise annoyance mapping, AI-based SDG classification, and age-friendly urban design. These works reflect a consistent trend toward interdisciplinary, human-centered, and data-driven approaches to shaping healthier, more sustainable cities. Scientific Awards: National Citation for Outstanding Contributions to Student Learning Venice Biennale selection (2010, 2025) Victorian Architecture Medal (2018) Australian Institute of Architects Urban Design and Jackson Educational Awards (2018) European Healthcare Design Award (2022) RAIA Haddon Travelling Scholarship (2002) AIA National Emerging Architect Award Professor White actively supervises PhD students and has secured major grants from the Australian Research Council (ARC), The Florey Institute, and iMOVE Australia. His leadership in projects like NOVELL (Neuroscience Optimised Virtual Environments Living Lab) demonstrates a strong commitment to translating research into real-world impact. He collaborates extensively with clinicians, urban planners, and technologists to advance evidence-based design across sectors. Labs and Teams: Spatio-Temporal Research Urban Design and Architecture Lab (STRUDAL) NOVELL (Neuroscience Optimised Virtual Environments Living Lab) Collaborations with The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health ARC Training Centre for Next-Gen Architectural Manufacturing
Associate Professor Warren Smith is a faculty member in the School of Engineering and Information Technology at the University of New South Wales (UNSW) Canberra campus. He serves as the Naval Architecture Coordinator and has held various leadership positions including Head of School from 2003-2009. With a background in naval architecture and operations research, Professor Smith has established himself as a leading educator and researcher in maritime engineering and design education. Professor Smith holds a PhD in Operations Research from the University of Houston, an MS in Mechanical Engineering from the same institution, and a BE in Naval Architecture with First Class Honours from UNSW Sydney. His extensive professional experience includes 20 years as a Naval Architect with the Australian Department of Defence (1978-1998), where he held various specialist engineering, research and managerial positions. Professor Smith's primary research interests span Naval Architecture, Ship Design and Safety, Engineering Design Education, and Complex Systems. He has pioneered authentic and immersive experiential learning approaches, particularly through student design competitions. His work in systems modeling, decision-based design, and optimization methods has contributed significantly to both naval architecture and engineering education fields. Professor Smith has developed innovative frameworks for ship design optimization, particularly for high-speed planing craft, and has explored the application of evolutionary algorithms to complex engineering problems. His recent scholarly output demonstrates a continued focus on naval architecture education, maritime engineering, and interdisciplinary applications of optimization techniques. Professor Smith has expanded his research into aircraft proximity systems and air traffic management, showing the transferability of his systems engineering approach across domains. His work consistently bridges theoretical advances with practical applications in both maritime and aerospace contexts. AGM Michell Medal, Mechanical College Board of Engineers Australia for outstanding service to mechanical engineering (2018) Australian Council of Engineering Deans National Award for Engineering Education Excellence Re-Engineering Australia Foundation Founder's Award for Outstanding Contributions to the F1inSchools Program (2017, 2013) Australian Society for Operations Research Conference Best Paper Award (2016) UNSW Canberra Community Engagement Award for Services to the F1inSchools Program (2013) UNSW Canberra Rector's Commendation for Excellence in Classroom Teaching (2010) ALTC Citation for Outstanding Contributions to Student Learning (2008) AAEE Citation for Outstanding Contributions to Student Learning (2008) Ship Shape 2000, Royal Institution of Naval Architects Walter Atkinson Prize (1993) Professor Smith has been instrumental in developing and leading numerous student design competitions that provide authentic learning experiences. He has served as Faculty Advisor for the Formula SAE Student Design & Build Competition (2003-2013 at UNSW Canberra, 2013-2014 at University of Oklahoma) and as National Coordinator for the Warman Design & Build Project & Competition (2002-2021). He currently chairs the Re-Engineering Australia National Rules Committee and serves as Chair of Judges for F1inSchools and Subs in Schools competitions. His educational leadership extends to mentoring first-year engineering students and researching the development of student teamwork competencies. Professor Smith leads the UNSW Canberra Warman Design and Build Project & Competition (1998-present) and is actively involved with the Re-Engineering Australia Foundation as ACT Hub Chair (2007-present). His work connects academic research with practical engineering challenges through student competitions that engage thousands of participants annually. These initiatives form an integrated ecosystem for engineering education that spans from primary school through to university level.
Dr William Jones is a Research Fellow in Planning and Optimisation at the University of Sydney, affiliated with the Australian Robotic Inspection and Asset Management (ARIAM) Research Hub and the Australian Centre for Field Robotics (ACFR). He holds a B.Sc. Eng. in Mechanical Engineering (Cardiff University, 2013) and an EngD in Systems (University of Bristol, 2019). His research focuses on Operations Research, simulation, and optimization of complex systems, particularly hybrid simulation methodologies. He has held postdoctoral roles at the University of Kent and the University of Sydney’s Rio Tinto Centre for Mine Automation. Research Interests: Dr Jones specializes in hybrid simulation models, combining multiple paradigms to optimize systems across transport, mining, healthcare, and telecommunications. His work emphasizes stakeholder engagement and model lifecycle management. Current projects include a digital twin for Garden Island’s dry dock in collaboration with Thales. Publications: His recent work spans hybrid simulation frameworks, rail network optimization, and wireless systems. Key themes include model development, stakeholder collaboration, and industry applications. He has contributed to journals like the Journal of the Operational Research Society and IEEE Transactions on Mobile Computing. Advising & Grants: While no advisees are listed, his industry collaborations highlight applied research funding. His work at ACFR and ARIAM involves significant grant-based projects focused on robotics and asset management. Labs & Teams: Active within the ACFR’s robotics and automation teams, he contributes to cross-disciplinary projects integrating robotics with operations research.
Ahmad Attarha is a Research Fellow at the School of Computing , College of Engineering and Computer Science , Australian National University (ANU). He recently submitted his PhD thesis and holds a B.Sc. and M.Sc. in Electrical Engineering from Semnan University, Iran (2012 and 2015). Education: B.Sc. (2012), M.Sc. (2015) in Electrical Engineering Current Role: Research Fellow in Power Systems and Smart Grids His research focuses on power systems operation and optimisation , with specific emphasis on Grid Integration of Distributed Energy Resources (DER) , Distributed Optimisation , and Robust Optimisation techniques for distribution networks. Publications highlight trends in DER aggregation , shaped operating envelopes , and robust optimization for distribution systems. Key areas include voltage regulation , network security constraints , and price-sensitive bidding strategies in energy markets. He is affiliated with the Smart Grid group at ANU and contributes to projects related to grid flexibility , distributed battery storage , and renewable energy integration .
Dr. Malindu Sandanayake is an Honorary Associate Professor at the School of Engineering, RMIT University, Australia. His research focuses on sustainable construction practices, environmental engineering, and the integration of waste materials in building technologies. He is actively involved in advancing circular economy principles through studies on geopolymer cements, prefabricated construction, and life cycle assessments of construction materials. His work emphasizes reducing carbon emissions and optimizing resource efficiency in infrastructure projects. Open to supervising PhD and Master’s students, he collaborates internationally to bridge gaps between academic research and industry applications. Research Interests : Dr. Sandanayake’s expertise spans environmental science, civil engineering, and materials innovation. Key areas include waste material utilization in concrete, sustainable construction frameworks, and policy-driven approaches to reduce construction’s environmental footprint. His interdisciplinary research often intersects with accounting and auditing methodologies to evaluate project sustainability. Recent Trends in Publications : His recent work highlights trends in circular economy applications, such as geopolymer cements from soil waste and prefabricated construction in developing economies. He also investigates carbon emission reduction strategies in highway construction and foundation systems. These studies underscore his commitment to practical, scalable solutions for sustainable development goals. Advising and Collaboration : Dr. Sandanayake is open to supervising postgraduate research in sustainable construction and materials engineering. His collaborations span universities in China, Vietnam, and Australia, focusing on real-world case studies to inform policy and industry practices.
Joseph Nicolazzo is a Professor and Director of the Centre for Drug Candidate Optimisation (CDCO) at the Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University. He concurrently serves as Associate Dean (International) in the Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences. With a PhD in buccal mucosal drug delivery (2004, Monash University), he has led research on BBB transport mechanisms, Alzheimer’s disease, and neurodegenerative disorders since 2007. His work spans in vitro/in vivo models to understand drug transport dynamics and BBB dysfunction in diseases like ALS and Alzheimer’s. Nicolazzo has authored 115+ peer-reviewed papers and holds editorial roles in journals like the Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Fluids and Barriers of the CNS . Education: PhD in Pharmacy (2004, Monash University). Research Focus: Blood-brain barrier transporters, Alzheimer’s pathobiology, CNS drug delivery. Awards: FIP Award of Recognition (2014), Early Career Researcher Award (2013). His teaching includes coordinating PHR2021 and lecturing in drug delivery and pharmacokinetics. Nicolazzo leads ~32 active research projects, including drug delivery strategies for brain cancer and BBB-targeted therapies. He collaborates internationally on BBB biology and chairs FIP’s Pharmaceutical Sciences Board. Labs/Teams: Directs the CDCO, a hub for ADME expertise in drug development. Active in interdisciplinary teams exploring BBB dysfunction in neurodegenerative diseases.
Professor Joanna Batstone serves as the inaugural Director of the Monash Data Futures Institute and holds a Professor position in the Faculty of Information Technology at Monash University. She is a recognized thought leader at the intersection of artificial intelligence, data science, and social impact, with a career spanning both technical research and strategic leadership roles. Her research portfolio demonstrates a remarkable evolution from foundational work in materials science during the 1980s-1990s to her current focus on AI applications for social good. Early in her career, she conducted significant research in semiconductor physics, crystallization processes, and thin film materials. More recently, her work has pivoted to applying AI technologies to address pressing societal challenges in healthcare, Indigenous community health, climate change, and ethical AI frameworks. Analysis of her publication history reveals two distinct but connected phases of her academic career. The early phase focused on materials science with numerous publications on semiconductor crystallization and silicide formation. The more recent phase demonstrates a strategic shift toward AI applications for social impact, with publications on AI-assisted clinical trial recruitment, Indigenous community health programs, and food security initiatives in remote Australian communities. Healthcare Innovation: Developing AI solutions for clinical trial recruitment and drug discovery Social Equity: Designing benchmarking systems for healthy food stores in Indigenous communities Environmental Applications: Using AI to monitor and address climate-related challenges like bushfire impacts Ethical Frameworks: Establishing governance models for responsible AI implementation As Director of the Monash Data Futures Institute, Professor Batstone leads interdisciplinary research that bridges technical innovation with real-world social impact. She emphasizes the importance of preparing future technologists to engage with AI responsibly, recognizing that 'AI is not going to go away' and that society must 'optimise for benefit' and 'optimise for social good' while addressing inevitable challenges.
Ben Beck is an Associate Professor and Australian Research Council Future Fellow at Monash University , leading the Sustainable Mobility and Safety Research Group within the School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine . His work bridges transport, public health, and climate change, focusing on active transport safety and equity. PhD : Optimising protection for motor vehicle rear seat occupants, University of New South Wales (2012) BE (Biomedical) (Hons) : University of Melbourne (2008) Ben is a globally recognized authority in active transport research , particularly bike riding. His interdisciplinary program integrates public health , urban planning , engineering , complex systems , and road safety to develop data-driven solutions. Recent publications focus on E-bike incentives , health outcomes in trauma , and GPS-based mobility analysis , reflecting his emphasis on policy and real-world impact. 2025 : A scoping review of e-bike financial incentives , Health-related quality of life metrics , and Safety norms for bicycling infrastructure 2024 : Alcohol testing frameworks , Older trauma care models , and Implementation science protocols Scientific Awards : Australian Institute of Policy & Science Young Tall Poppy Award (Victoria, 2024) Australasian College of Road Safety Peter Vulcan Award for Best Research Paper (2019) European Resuscitation Council Young Investigator Award (2017) Ben has secured over $17 million in research funding and collaborates with governments, NGOs, and international institutions to advance UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) related to Good Health , Sustainable Cities , and Climate Action . His UN Green and Healthy Sustainable Transport Taskforce membership underscores his policy influence.
