Queensland researchers are breaking new ground in science with potentially life-changing discoveries through the Queensland–Bavaria Collaborative Research Program.
Fifteen innovative science projects aimed at improving the lives of Queenslanders are sharing in $630,000, enabling them to collaborate with global scientific leaders in a joint initiative between the Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation (DETSI) and Bavaria's Ministry of Science and the Arts (StMWK).
The program is designed to boost Queensland's research and development capacity in key scientific industries, including ensuring a more reliable and efficient energy supply, addressing housing affordability, artificial intelligence, quantum technologies, aerospace and biomedical research.
Queensland Chief Scientist Kerrie Wilson highlighted the importance of the Queensland–Bavaria Collaborative Research Program in strengthening Queensland's scientific capabilities.
"Bavaria is a major player in the global research community, and this partnership will not only cement Queensland's place as a leader in science but also create a pipeline of world-class research and innovation opportunities," Professor Wilson said.
"This program showcases how Queensland researchers are tackling global challenges head-on, from using cutting-edge 3D-printing technologies for more sustainable housing, to exploring how AI-generated information could better align with user needs, and developing smarter energy solutions that improve the reliability of renewable electricity grids.
"These projects highlight the power of collaboration in delivering innovative solutions that benefit both Queensland and the world."
Queensland University of Technology Professor Tim Schork will work with Bavarian researchers on his project which examines the applications for 3D printing in the construction of affordable homes.
"Both Australia and Germany have a demand for affordable housing, which cannot be met with conventional material systems and modes of construction," Mr Schork said.
"This collaborative research project aims to create novel design tools and advanced manufacturing technologies for next-generation multi-material construction 3D printing, harnessing low-carbon bio-based building materials.
"I am looking forward to developing real-world solutions that transform architectural design and construction practices to be more resource-efficient, circular and affordable."
University of Southern Queensland Professor Ravinesh Deo will work closely with experts at the University of Bamberg on his project to create an Artificial Intelligence (AI) tool that helps electricity grid operators run low-voltage networks more reliably, ensuring power is delivered efficiently to homes and businesses.
"Our project focuses on applying advanced machine learning techniques to model, forecast and optimise energy flows within low-voltage renewable electricity grids," Professor Deo said.
"We aim to improve real-time decision-making in grid control centres by accurately predicting mismatches between supply and demand caused by factors like electric vehicle charging and home heat pumps."
University of Bavaria Professor and Board Chairman, Dr Thomas Hofmann, said Bavaria and Queensland share an understanding of academic freedom, excellence and international cooperation.
"Our universities are top level globally, and together we can further scientific excellence and find solutions for the great challenges of our times," Dr Hofmann.
Chairman of the Associations of the Bavarian Universities of Applied Sciences, Dr Walter Schober, said the second round of the Bavaria-Queensland Collaborative Research Program will systematically intensify existing partnerships between Bavarian and Australian universities and enable new collaborations to be established.
"We look forward to conducting research projects with a high level of innovative potential in future-oriented fields such as artificial intelligence together with our Australian partners. This will sustainably strengthen the international exchange and competitiveness of our universities of applied sciences," Dr Schober.
Grants have been offered under two categories – Seed Grants and Development Grants, focused on fostering and strengthening relationships between Queensland and Bavaria.
