Monash Report 2024 – Goal 9

Monash University Report 2024 on the UN Sustainable Development Goals

9  INDUSTRY,
    INNOVATION AND
    INFRASTRUCTURE

Build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialisation, and foster innovation

Research
Education
Engagement
Operations

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2024 Publications Performance View

In 2024 Monash University researchers produced 380 publications related to SDG 9, with a mean Field-Weighted Citation Impact (FWCI) of 1.7.

What is Field-Weighted Citation Impact?

Field-Weighted Citation Impact (FWCI) refers to the ratio of the actual number of citations received by a research output and the total citations expected based on the average of the subject field. An FWCI value of 1 may be interpreted as having ‘world average impact’. Thus, a publication with an FWCI of more than 1 indicates higher than expected citations based on the global average for similar publications. As FWCI reflects citations received to date, a publication’s FWCI value may fluctuate over time.

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Sustainable infrastructure and innovation View

Monash University is spearheading initiatives to promote sustainable infrastructure and innovation across various sectors:

The ARC Research Hub for Infrastructure Net Zero, led by Professor Wenhui Duan from Monash Engineering, focuses on decarbonising the construction sector using advanced digital technologies, supported by A$5 million from the Australian Research Council.
A strategic partnership with Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya in India aims to advance railway research and education through a joint research lab, leveraging Monash's expertise via the Monash Institute of Railway Technology.
Research by Monash University and the University of Tasmania, involving Professor Russell Smyth from Monash's Department of Economics, explores AI's potential to revolutionise the mining sector, enhancing efficiency and environmental practices.

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AI excellence: Monash researchers honoured at Women in AI APAC Awards View

Dr Faezeh Marzbanrad and Dr Nicole Robinson from Monash Engineering were recognised at the Women in AI Asia-Pacific Awards for their exceptional work in using AI to tackle health and social issues. Dr Marzbanrad, leading the Biomedical Signal Processing Research Lab, received the AI in Research Excellence (Health) Award for her work on affordable AI-powered healthcare technologies aimed at improving health outcomes in low-resource communities.

SDG9-Res2 Women in AI APAC Awards

Dr Robinson, a Research Fellow and Lecturer in the Department of Electrical and Computer Systems Engineering and the School of Psychological Sciences, won the AI in Agribusiness and Rural Development Award and was named the overall Women in AI Grand Winner. Her research focuses on human behavior and its integration into software agents and robotic systems, and she is also a Director of LYRO Robotics.

Read the full article in Monash Engineering News

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Celebrating GILZRx: a Monash biotech success story View

Associate Professor Sarah Jones and her Rheumatology Research team at the Monash University Centre for Inflammatory Diseases have received an additional AU$500,000 in funding from Brandon BioCatalyst's CUREator incubator for their biotech startup, GILZRx.

SDG9-Res3 GILZRx biotech startup

This funding, totaling AU$1M, will support the development of a new anti-inflammatory medicine aimed at providing a safer alternative to glucocorticoids, which are used by many people worldwide but have severe side effects.

This advancement could revolutionise treatment for autoimmune diseases and inflammatory disorders.

Read the full article in Monash Medicine News

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Engineering and design innovations recognised View

Monash University Malaysia's School of Engineering and Monash Art, Design and Architecture (MADA) have been recognised for their innovative contributions to industry and infrastructure:

The Colloids and Polymers group won a Gold Medal and a Special Award for Competitive Innovation at the 2024 National Nuclear Innovation Award competition for developing lead-free, flexible, and lightweight rubber composites for sustainable radiation shielding, in collaboration with Sunway University, UniKL MICET, and Nuklear Agensi Malaysia.

Monash University Malaysia achieved success at the 35th International Invention, Innovation & Technology Exhibition (ITEX) 2024, winning six gold and two silver medals for innovations including an antibacterial cream, a natural neuroprotector, a new type of palm milk, and a green solvent for bio-based products.

The Art, Design and Architecture Faculty won twelve awards at the 2024 Good Design Awards for projects such as a mobile device for stroke diagnosis, a sleep monitoring system for aged care, and the Digital Energy Futures project.

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Unit statistics and highlights View

In 2024, Monash offered 92 units directly related to SDG 9, with 10170 total enrolments.

Highlighted below are a few of the units at Monash related to Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure:

ENS5510 Innovation to influence system change
BEX5810 Sustainable business and innovation
CIV5887 Infrastructure rehabilitation and monitoring

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MIG students tackle industry challenges in Malaysia View

The School of Business at Monash University Malaysia launched the Monash Innovation Guarantee (MIG), a three-week program where students tackle real-world industry challenges with guidance from industry partners like CelcomDigi, CrossFit, Microsoft, Pos Malaysia, and Tata Consultancy Services. Coordinated by Dr Daniel Loy, the program culminated in a Final Pitch Day, showcasing students' innovative solutions.

This initiative is part of Monash University's Flagship Rich Education Experiences (FREE) and aims to equip students with skills to address complex challenges.

Read the full article in Monash Malaysia News

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Gold Good Design win for student's industry project View

Bachelor of Design Honours student and industrial designer Geoff Thompson, in collaboration with the Design Health Collab, developed CryoSack, an innovative project that won the Gold Good Design Award in the Next Gen category. CryoSack addresses antimicrobial resistance and hospital bed shortages by enabling patients to receive intravenous antibiotic treatments at home.

photo of a person using CryoSack

The project highlights the importance of industry collaboration in academic projects, with ALPAKA contributing advanced materials and manufacturing capabilities. This innovation enhances patient comfort and portability, offering a promising future for patient-centred solutions in medical technology.

Read the full article in Monash Art, Design and Architecture News

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Fastrack graduate develops robot to revolutionise ADHD management View

SDG9 Edu3 robot for ADHD assistance

Zaid Ahmed, a graduate of Monash University's Fastrack program, developed an AI-powered robot named 'Stu' to assist individuals with ADHD in managing executive functions, task digestion, schedule management, and emotional support. The project, inspired by Ahmed's personal experiences, was realised with the help of co-founders Arnav Bhalla and William Cerdelli.

The Fastrack program provided a platform for the team to develop their start-up, emphasising a customer-centric approach and co-creation process.

The initiative addresses the needs of over 300 million people with ADHD globally, offering a solution backed by science and research.

Read the full article in Monash Business News

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Monash Motorsport's international success View

Monash Motorsport and Monash Motorsports Malaysia are advancing engineering innovation and infrastructure development through participation in international competitions with electric and autonomous vehicles:

Monash Motorsport, a student-run team, competed in the Formula Student competition in Europe with their M24 vehicle, promoting cutting-edge automotive technology and providing a practical learning platform for engineering students.
Monash Motorsports Malaysia achieved 1st place in the Electric Vehicle category at the Thailand SAE Auto Challenge 2024, showcasing sustainable vehicle design and engineering skills. These initiatives highlight Monash University's commitment to fostering industry advancements and educational excellence.

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Supporting start-ups at Monash Malaysia View

Monash University Malaysia organised Monash Start-Up Day 2024 to enhance students' understanding of entrepreneurship and start-up dynamics, offering networking opportunities, internships, and career insights. The event featured a career fair with exhibitors like Endeavor Malaysia and Carsome Malaysia, promoting quality education and economic growth.

start 1

Additionally, Bryan Koh from Monash University Malaysia's School of Information Technology co-founded Volunti Connect, a start-up using AI to connect NGOs with corporations for CSR initiatives, winning an award at the Sunway iLabs LaunchX 2024 Demo Day.

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Innovation achievements View

Monash University has been recognised for its contributions to innovation and infrastructure development through two key activities:

Seven graduates from Monash Art, Design and Architecture were shortlisted for the Global Creative Graduate Showcase 2024, highlighting the quality of education and training at Monash and providing graduates with international exposure and industry connections.
Monash University Malaysia's School of Engineering won the 2024 WARMAN Design and Build Competition, showcasing the university's commitment to enhancing engineering skills and innovation.

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Exploring innovative learning and generative AI in higher education View

Monash University, Indonesia hosted EduVate 2024, a three-day event focused on innovative learning and Generative AI in higher education. The event, held in collaboration with Monash University, Malaysia and LLDIKTI IV West Java and Banten, brought together over 200 educators and visionaries to discuss emerging trends and solutions in higher education. Key discussions included the integration of AI in education, academic-industry collaboration, and the importance of lifelong learning.

The event emphasised the need for higher education to adapt to technological advancements and foster collaboration to ensure equitable and inclusive learning environments.

Read the full article in Monash Indonesia News

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Innovation in education View

Monash University is integrating innovation and technology in education:

Dr Harriman Saragih from Monash University, Indonesia, is recognised for integrating generative AI into education, enhancing talent development in Indonesia, and fostering strategic partnerships.
The Director of the Human Ethics and Data Innovation (HEDI) at Monash University delivered a keynote on ethical AI in education at EduTECH, promoting responsible use of AI technologies.
The Technology, Design, and Innovation in Legal Services (TDILS) unit at Monash Law, led by Dr Paul Burgess, equips law students with essential skills for modern legal practice, emphasising innovation and entrepreneurship.
TransformED 2023, hosted by Monash University Malaysia and Indonesia, focused on innovative teaching practices and the integration of Generative AI, fostering international collaboration among educators.

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Promoting industry innovation at Monash Indonesia View

Monash Indonesia has fostered skills in innovation and strategic thinking for business students:

The Business Innovation Competition Grand Finale, in collaboration with Minutes of Managers (MoM), awarded scholarships and cash prizes to participants with innovative business ideas, fostering skills for strategic business initiatives.
The MBI program equips students with skills in emerging technologies, strategic thinking, and entrepreneurial innovation, preparing them for impactful careers in Indonesia's dynamic economy.

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Excellence in engineering education View

Monash University is advancing engineering through scholarships, new degree programs, and innovative projects, engaging students in cutting-edge technology and sustainability efforts:

Ayman Miazi, an aerospace engineering student, received The Order of Australia Association Foundation Scholarship for his work with Monash's High Powered Rocketry Team, aiming to advance reusable rocket systems and space exploration.
The Faculty of Engineering launched a Master of Advanced Engineering degree to address industry needs in technology and sustainability, offering specialisations like robotics and renewable energy.
The Engineering Research Opportunities for High School Students (EROHSS) program at Monash Malaysia introduced high school students to research in renewable energy and sustainability.
The Engineering Tropical Exchange Challenge (ETEC) at Monash Malaysia provided a cross-cultural engineering experience, supported by the New Colombo Plan.
Monash University's High Powered Rocketry team is preparing to launch Project Zenith, a student-developed rocket, showcasing advanced engineering skills.

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Global collaborations for sustainability and innovation View

Monash University has engaged in strategic collaborations with global industry leaders to advance sustainability and innovation, focusing on decarbonisation, sustainable resource recovery, and smart manufacturing:

Collaborations with Tata Steel, Thermo Fisher Scientific, Corio Generation, and Ocean Winds aim to establish a Centre for Innovation on Environment and Intelligent Manufacturing, enhance research infrastructure, and promote renewable energy projects.
Monash University and Tata Steel signed a Memorandum of Understanding to establish a Centre for Innovation on Environment and Intelligent Manufacturing, focusing on decarbonisation and sustainable resource recovery, strengthening ties between Australia and India.
The Climateworks Centre launched a program in Ho Chi Minh City to establish net zero industrial precincts in Vietnam, supporting the country's net zero emissions goals by 2050.

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Monash Indonesia hosts events on innovation and data transformation View

Monash University Indonesia hosted two significant events to promote industry innovation and infrastructure:

The HR Gathering 2024 focused on cybersecurity awareness and data governance, bringing together professionals from various sectors to discuss digital governance and threats, emphasising collaboration between HR and IT departments.

hr-gathering-2024-opening-remark-tantia-dia

The Monash University Alumni Insight Series event in Jakarta highlighted 'Data-Driven Business Transformation in Indonesia', focusing on data democracy and self-service analytics, with industry leaders discussing data accessibility and informed decision-making.

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Monash hosts ethical AI dialogue and launches AI Clinic View

Monash University Malaysia hosted an industry dialogue on ethical AI innovation, emphasising governance frameworks and global cooperation, while the Monash Law Faculty launched an AI Clinic to provide practical legal technology experience:

The 'Fostering Trust in AI' dialogue, organised with MDEC and Austrade, focused on ethical AI development, featuring insights from Dr Liming Zhu, Victor Lo, and Professor Edward Mah, and highlighted the need for global AI standards.
The AI Clinic, in collaboration with Lander & Rogers, offers law students practical experience in AI and legal technology, addressing ethical considerations and preparing them for the evolving legal landscape.

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Digital healthcare innovation View

Monash University is driving digital and biomedical innovation through transformative talks, groundbreaking research, and advancements in healthcare technology:

The Digital Hub Executive Talks #3, organised by Sinar Mas Land and Monash University, Indonesia, explored the transformative potential of big data in healthcare, featuring a keynote by Dr Henry Surendra.
The Artificial Heart Frontiers Program, supported by a $50 million grant, aims to develop next-generation implantable cardiac devices, with contributions from Professor David Kaye and Associate Professor Shaun Gregory.
The MET Hub at Monash University Malaysia focuses on innovative biomedical engineering research to address clinical challenges, involving academics from the School of Engineering and the School of Information Technology.
The introduction of Starlink as an internet provider in Indonesia, discussed by the Data & Democracy Research Hub at Monash University, Indonesia, aims to enhance digital transformation in healthcare.

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Harnessing extended reality to drown the fear of water View

Monash University researchers from the Faculty of Information Technology's Exertion Games Lab, led by PhD Candidate Maria Montoya and Professor Florian ‘Floyd’ Mueller, have developed an extended reality system using floatation tanks to help reduce aquaphobia. This innovative system combines a water-based virtual reality landscape with a controlled environment to help participants overcome their fear of water. The study, presented at the Human Factors in Computing Systems (CHI) Conference, demonstrated that participants experienced less anxiety regarding water.

SDG9-Eng5 VR floatation tank

The research aims to provide a playful and interactive experience that encourages participants to engage with water in a safe and enjoyable manner, potentially aiding psychologists and mental health professionals in managing aquaphobia and other phobias.

Read the full article in Monash News

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Kalbe Farma continues collaboration with Monash University, Indonesia View

Monash University, Indonesia, in collaboration with PT Kalbe Farma Tbk, is enhancing management expertise through the General Management Program. This initiative aims to improve global business competencies and facilitate triple helix collaboration among government, academia, and industry. The program prepares future leaders of the Kalbe Group by providing knowledge on academic resources, government collaboration, and global supply chain dynamics.

The collaboration includes training programs in Indonesia and benchmarking visits to Melbourne, focusing on global business, digital transformation, talent management, and sustainability. This partnership reflects a commitment to continuous learning, innovation, and international relationships for mutual growth.

Read the full article in Monash Indonesia News

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Monash Generator boosts innovation View

Monash University's Generator initiative, including the Accelerator program and pre-Accelerator programs like Researcher to Innovator and Startup Sprint, supports high-potential founders in achieving sustainable growth and innovation:

The Accelerator program, running over four months, provides mentorship, networking, and funding to refine business models and enhance customer engagement, contributing to economic growth and job creation.

A woman entrepreneur pitching on stage in front of a screen with the Monash and Generator logos

The Researcher to Innovator and Startup Sprint programs offer mentorship and community support to Monash startup founders, fostering innovation and infrastructure development through entrepreneurship.

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Monash Technology Precinct and Medicines Manufacturing Innovation Centre View

The Monash Technology Precinct and the Medicines Manufacturing Innovation Centre (MMIC) at Monash University are pivotal in advancing industry, innovation, and infrastructure:

The Monash Technology Precinct is recognised as a global innovation district, integrating education, research, and enterprise, and supporting 115,000 jobs, contributing to sustainable urban development and economic growth in Melbourne's southeast.
The Medicines Manufacturing Innovation Centre, located in the Monash Technology Precinct in Clayton, accelerates medical innovation and the development of life-saving treatments, supported by investments from the Victorian Higher Education State Investment Fund and Monash University, and a grant from the Cumming Global Centre for Pandemic Therapeutics.

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Introducing the first graduates from CDL-Melbourne View

The Monash Business School has launched the inaugural cohort of Creative Destruction Lab Melbourne (CDL-Melbourne), which includes eight ventures focused on diverse technologies such as energy solutions, electrochemical technology, and wearable assistive devices.

SDG-1 spending habit image

These ventures participated in intensive mentorship sessions to refine their business models and prepare for global expansion. The program aims to support early-stage science and technology-based companies in the Asia-Pacific region, fostering innovation and scalable solutions.

Read the full article in Monash Business News

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Sleep tight: new wearable sensor sheds light on getting the best rest View

Monash University researchers, including Professor Sean Cain and Associate Professor Andrew Phillips from the Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, and Professor Jon McCormack, Elliott Wilson, and Dr Rowan Page from SensiLab, have developed a wearable device called 'MiEye'.

SDG9-Op4 MiEye sensor photo

The device records the impact of artificial light on the body, helping users to improve sleep and mental wellbeing, and treat chronic health conditions. The MiEye sensor, which senses light over 11 channels, provides feedback to a smartphone app to help manage circadian rhythms.

This innovation aims to aid in the treatment of type 2 diabetes, mental health issues, cardiovascular disease, and hypertension, and is expected to be available to the public during 2025.