2024 Honour Roll

In recognition of the significant research contributions to the field of engineering and IT.

2024: Dr Yanbo Lian

Dr Yanbo Lian's interdisciplinary research, conducted in collaboration with Prof. Michael Hasselmo and their lab at Boston University, integrates computational modeling with experimental neuroscience. As a computational neuroscientist, Yanbo’s novel research has shed light on uncovering the underlying learning principles of how the brain’s navigational systems develop. His computational model, which merges brain vision and navigation, presents a groundbreaking framework for understanding how sensory systems, like vision, influence the formation of the brain's navigational capabilities. Through his research, Yanbo has advanced our comprehension of the function and learning mechanisms within cortical circuits in the brain. His research has culminated in three important peer-reviewed first authored journal articles and holds promise for applications of his research in areas such as brain-inspired autonomous vehicles.

In recognition of the significant research contributions to the field of engineering and IT.

2024: TrustedThings: Expanding the frontier of security testing to build trustworthy networked systems

Dr Thuan Pham, Dr Shaanan Cohney, A/Prof Toby Murray

Thuan, Shaanan, and Toby's research collaboration, TrustedThings, aims to pioneer a joint research program focused on security testing for networked systems, showcasing significant advances in both research and translational impacts. The team's efforts have resulted in innovative developments in testing challenging networked IoT devices, stateful network protocol fuzzing, and web API fuzzing, leading to the discovery of numerous vulnerabilities in critical protocols such as RTSP, DICOM, the Matter IoT protocol, and several websites in Australia. Through their dedication to scientific rigor and practical scalability, they have not only garnered widespread recognition within academia but have also fostered impactful collaborations with industry partners. The educational impact of their work is also evident through the integration of their research into curricula at both the University of Melbourne and overseas tertiary institutions.

In recognition of the significant research contributions to the field of engineering and IT.

2024: Dr Michelle Blom

Dr Michelle Blom’s research focuses on developing innovative methods for conducting post-election audits, particularly tailored for preferential voting systems. By integrating statistical, algorithmic, and optimisation techniques, Michelle has devised risk-limiting audits that not only verify election outcomes but also minimise the number of ballots required for analysis. Underscoring the significance of this research, Michelle was bestowed the IEEE Cybersecurity Award for Practice in 2023 and best paper awards at the International Conference for Electronic Voting. Michelle’s auditing techniques have been piloted in a number of US elections, including the 2019 San Francisco District Attorney’s contest, and in the 2020 Democratic Presidential Primaries in Alaska, Wyoming and Kansas. Additionally, in November 2023 the first non-pilot implementation occurred in Boulder, Colorado, marking a key milestone in electoral integrity. Michelle has also developed open-source software packages tailored to assist election administrators in conducting risk-limiting audits for Instant Runoff Voting contests, a preferential election system increasingly being adopted globally.

In recognition of outstanding achievements in supervision and development of the next generation of Australia's scientific researchers.

2024: Prof Martin Gibbs

Professor Martin Gibbs has successfully guided over 18graduate researchers to completion since 2010. Through his provision of training, pastoral support, and mentoring, Martin has facilitated the transition of his graduate researchers into distinguished careers in both academic and industry sectors. Martin’s dedication to the graduate research community is evident through his roles as Graduate Research Coordinator at both School and Faculty levels. In these capacities, he has developed and implemented graduate research policies and programs aimed at enhancing recruitment efforts and enriching the student experience for GRs. Within the School of Computing and Information Systems, Martin has worked with the school’s GR team to create funding opportunities for GRs' conference attendance, facilitated the smooth transition of over 200 GRs back to campus post-pandemic, supported the organisation of the annual doctoral consortiums, and the creation of peer mentoring and "buddy" schemes for new GRs. Additionally, from 2010 to 2017, Martin coordinated the Research Methods in Information Systems subject, which he designed to equip graduate researchers with research methodologies tailored to their individual research projects.

In recognition of the outstanding contributions towards realising ambitions in the areas of equity, diversity and social inclusion.

2024: Girl Power in Engineering and IT team

Monica Duggan, Diana Rincon Blanco, Yusra Naeem

The Girl Power initiative, led by Monica, Diana and Yusra, represents a collaborative effort supported by a dedicated team of academics, industry partners, and UOM staff and students. With a core focus on addressing gender parity in STEMM fields, the program engages female students starting from year 9, to participate in a four-year journey that connects them with UoM academics and students through a range of tailored activities. Since its inception in 2016, the initiative has garnered significant interest, drawing over 1700 applications and welcoming 290 students from diverse backgrounds across Australia. Through avenues such as residential camps, work experiences, and mentoring programs, Girl Power has paved pathways into higher education for underrepresented groups, with 42 past participants enrolling as UoM students and 50% of the 2024 cohort accepting offers at the university. This concerted effort not only fosters inclusivity but also nurtures a vibrant community within UoM, empowering young women to pursue and thrive in STEMM disciplines.

In recognition of the outstanding research projects undertaken in partnership with industry.

2024: 3D printed Augmented Reality displays: changing the way we see the world

A/Prof Ranjith Rajasekharan Unnithan, Prof Christina Lim, Claire Whiteley

Under the leadership of Associate Professor Unnithan, and in collaboration with Professor Lim, the team partnered with industry leader KHD Design to pioneer a flexible 3D printed augmented reality display using affordable, optical-quality polymer and plastic materials. This breakthrough addresses the limitations of conventional glass materials in AR technology, simplifying manufacturing processes, improving mass production efficiency, and reducing overall costs. Beginning with a student Masters project in 2017, the KHD and UoM partnership has grown significantly, exemplifying the team’s impressive pathway to research collaboration via leveraging academic curriculum. Claire, working alongside Ranjith and Christina, played a pivotal role in disseminating research findings to both national and international audiences, collaborating with key stakeholders to produce media content, press releases, and organise media training sessions. Through Ranjith's leadership, the team has significantly expanded the accessibility and affordability of AR technology, opening new possibilities for its application across diverse fields.

In recognition of the outstanding contributions in enhancing the Faculty’s and the University's international standing.

2024: A/Prof Jagannath Aryal

Associate Professor Jagannath Aryal has made significant contributions to the internationalisation of the Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology through his sustained engagement and expertise in stakeholder relations. His efforts have focused on fostering collaborations and partnerships in the Indian and Indonesian higher education sectors, as well as with selected Indian schools and European universities. Notable achievements include leading the University's development of applications for the Australia India Strategic Research Fund, coordinating the five-year PRIME Engineering program for Indonesia with colleagues from FEIT and Chancellery, and delivering engagement programs for 19 schools in Indian sub-continent region. His dedication to nurturing international talent and promoting the Faculty as a hub for engineering and IT knowledge underscores his commitment to advancing global academic exchange and partnerships.

In recognition of teaching excellence.

2024: Yifei Wang

Yifei Wang's teaching philosophy centres on fostering an interactive and customised learning atmosphere that caters to the diverse needs of his students. With seven years of experience spanning across seven subjects, Yifei is committed to igniting inspiration among his students by integrating entrepreneurial insights and real-world scenarios into his teaching approach. His aim is to facilitate a deeper comprehension of theory while emphasising the practical application of knowledge in contemporary contexts. Through the incorporation of case studies, simulations, guest lectures from industry experts, and guided hands-on exercises, Yifei endeavours to equip students with the skills necessary to navigate the complexities of the modern engineering and IT landscape. Additionally, his teaching methods aim to cultivate critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and adaptability among the student cohort.

In recognition of teaching excellence.

2024: Dr Jillian Kenny

Dr Jillian Kenny’s teaching passions extend to equipping students with the capabilities to navigate and influence a world grappling with sustainability challenges. Through the creation of the undergraduate course "Entrepreneurship for Sustainability," Jillian has integrated sustainability and entrepreneurship education, prioritising practical problem-solving through project-based learning. Jillian’s students are tasked with conceiving entrepreneurial ventures aligned with United Nations Sustainability Goals. Grounded in interdisciplinary perspectives, inclusivity, and a student-centred approach, Jillian's teaching methodology cultivates collaboration, providing for an immersive learning environment. Her pedagogy-informed innovations include fostering personal growth through self-exploration, peer feedback sessions, and constructing meaningful engagement with industry professionals, community members, entrepreneurs, and mentors. Through her leadership, Jillian’s students navigate ambiguity and cultivate entrepreneurial, growth-orientated mindsets to tackle multifaceted sustainability challenges.

The Kelvin Medal in recognition of teaching excellence and approaches to teaching that influence, motivate and inspire students to learn and develop.

2024: A/Prof Colin A. Scholes

Associate Professor Colin Scholes is deeply committed to advancing chemical engineering education, evident through his leadership role as Deputy Head (Academic) in Chemical Engineering. His dedication to teaching extends to developing laboratory practicals modelled on real-world industry environments and conducting research into innovative academic misconduct identification techniques. His passion for education led him to earn an Endeavour Fellowship in 2015, where he observed engagement programs in the USA aimed at enhancing Native American participation in STEM disciplines. Applying these insights, Colin has spearheaded similar initiatives in Australian schools in collaboration with Indigenous organisations. Notably, Colin also created the University breadth subject 'Sustainable and Equitable Energy Futures,' facilitating collaboration with representatives from Timor-Leste to develop energy planning solutions for the country's government and development partners. This interdisciplinary subject attracts students from diverse backgrounds, exposing non-engineers to critical engineering concepts. Colin's exceptional contributions to teaching have earned him prestigious awards, including the School of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering Outstanding Teaching Award in 2021, the Royal Australian Chemical Institute Victorian Public Lectureship in 2018, and the Hartung Youth Lecturer in 2015. Furthermore, his research efforts have resulted in publications focused on teaching methodologies and promoting Indigenous engineering initiatives, showcasing his dedication to advancing education and fostering STEM inclusivity.

In recognition of professional staff contributions towards fulfilling the goals, values and mission of the Faculty and the University.

2024: Dr Elana Taran

Dr Elena Taran, as Manager of the Materials Characterisation and Fabrication Platform in Chemical Engineering, has leveraged her professional acumen to strengthen partnerships with industry, secure essential resources, and cultivate networks that foster interdisciplinary research spanning engineering, physics, and life sciences. Elena's innovative approach extends to implementing training programs aimed at nurturing the growth and advancement of students and early-to-mid career researchers. Committed to promoting cutting-edge technologies and facilitating ongoing collaboration, Elena co-founded the Microscopy@Unimelb Network, providing a platform for initiating collaborative efforts among peers. Additionally, she established the UoM Research Infrastructure Awards and has developed national initiatives within the Australian National Fabrication Facility network to facilitate knowledge exchange at a broader scale.