24 February 2026
Development of hydrogen-based reduction processes for recovery of iron, alumina, and other valuable materials from bauxite residues
This project focuses on developing low-emission processes for recovering valuable elements from bauxite residue (red mud) using hydrogen-based direct reduction combined with mineral additives. The work aims to improve iron reduction efficiency, prevent undesirable phase formation, and enhance downstream separation of iron and alumina.
24 February 2026
Design and optimisation of hydrogen-fuelled industrial burners
This project focuses on the design and optimisation of hydrogen-fuelled industrial burners for high-temperature applications such as steelmaking, glass manufacturing, and power generation.
The project aims to provide design guidelines for industrial-scale hydrogen burners, supporting the transition to decarbonised industrial energy systems.
23 February 2026
AI technologies in nuclear applications
This project is a literature review focusing on cataloguing and classifying the types of artificial intelligence models being discussed in academic literature discussing nuclear applications. This work will underpin future studies of AI integration in nuclear systems and the potential safety implications of such activities.
23 February 2026
Rethinking catchment models for the future of the Great Barrier Reef
This project will apply the INCA water quality model to one or more reef catchments in the Great Barrier Reef, to trace pollution sources and guide management.
23 February 2026
Theoretical modelling of state-of-the-art solar cells
The next generation of solar cells will use "tandem" structures that combine two solar cells in one device. This creates new challenges in designing the cells and integrating them into modules. In this project, you’ll model tandem devices using different theoretical approaches to explore how to maximise the performance of future solar technologies.
23 February 2026
Light–Matter Interactions in chalcogenides materials for Solar Energy Applications
This project investigates light–matter interactions in scalable thin-film absorber materials for next-generation solar cells, including WS₂, WSe₂, selenium (Se), and Sb₂S₃.
17 February 2026
Understanding brain responses to therapeutic sounds - an EEG study
The project will involve collecting EEG responses of listeners immersed in a soundfield produced by singing bowls (a traditional musical instrument used to induce deep rest). The data will then be analysed using EEG signal processing techniques to learn the induced brain patterns and map their correlations with the soundfield dynamics.
13 February 2026
Efficient, stable and cost-effective next generation solar cells
Solar photovoltaic technology has become one of the most important pillars of the global energy transition. While conventional silicon solar cells dominate the market, their efficiency is approaching practical limits. To further reduce the cost of solar electricity and accelerate decarbonisation, new materials and device architectures are required.
13 February 2026
When does the river become unsafe? Machine Learning-Based Prediction of E. coli in the Yarra River
This project will adapt an existing machine-learning based dissolved oxygen (DO) modelling framework to analyse long-term E. coli monitoring data from the Yarra River collected through the Yarra Watch program.
9 February 2026
Community batteries and ownership of energy assets
Community batteries are being trialed across Australia as a way to share the benefits of battery storage, particularly for those who rent or live in apartments. But who owns the battery might influence who benefits, who bears risk, and what services the battery actually delivers.
28 January 2026
Machine Learning analysis of E. coli data from the Yarra River
This project will explore the value of perspicuous Machine Learning models to analyse long-term E. coli monitoring data from the Yarra River. The work will serve as a proof-of-concept study, suitable for a full-year final-year student project for research-based courses.
28 January 2026
Degradation of TOPCon Solar Cell Passivation Stacks
This lab-based project will investigate the degradation behaviour of passivation stacks used in TOPCon silicon solar cells.
Explore more student research projects across the ANU College of Systems and Society.
Looking for a Capstone project? These placements are managed separately through the Engineering Design Capstone course.
For more Work Integrated Learning opportunities, including internships and work experience, head to ANU Career Central or any questions please email engagement.eng@anu.edu.au