- Monash University hosts Australian NVIDIA and OpenACC hackathon
- 2026 theme is AI for Science Australian Hackathon
- Participants pair with experts to expedite research projects
Scientific researchers and AI experts last week convened at Monash University for the NVIDIA and OpenACC AI for Science Australian Hackathon.
The hackathon involves high-energy 'sprints' with teams using AI to turn their ideas into working prototypes in just a matter of days. This year the researchers accelerated projects across structural biology, advanced engineering, quantum chemistry and climate modelling.
Researchers from institutions across Australia bid for their spot at the event, which offers a unique opportunity to be mentored by leading AI experts from Monash University, NVIDIA and National Computational Infrastructure (NCI) Australia.
Hosting the 2026 AI for Science Australian Hackathon represents Monash's commitment to enabling researchers to build the necessary skills and confidence to use emerging AI technologies in their field. The hackathon is also a continuation of Monash's partnership with NVIDIA and the University's 2025 investment in the Australian-first AI supercomputer, MAVERIC.
"Monash University Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Enterprise) and Senior Vice-President Professor Robyn Ward AM said, "We're proud to partner with NVIDIA, OpenACC and the National Computational Infrastructure to deliver this initiative."
"What's particularly powerful about the hackathon is the combination of deep scientific expertise with hands-on mentorship from AI leaders. That collaboration is accelerating discovery in real time and supports researchers to embed emerging AI technologies into their work."
"This event builds on our investment in MAVERIC, Australia's first university-based AI supercomputer. It reflects our broader commitment to ensuring our research community has the capability, infrastructure and industry connections needed to respond to complex global challenges with speed and impact."
Hackathon teams were made up of researchers from Monash University; Hudson Institute of Medical Research; University of New South Wales (Sydney); Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (Western Australia); ACCESS NRI & National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and La Trobe University.
Other hackathon partners include National Computational Infrastructure (NCI) Australia; Pawsey; AUS Biocommons and Sharon.Ai.
