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Mapping transcrustal transfer of energy critical metals in Northwest Queensland
This project will target a resubmission of a near-miss 2025 Discovery Project Expression of Interest. The aim is to develop and demonstrate proof-of-concept methodologies, and deliver preliminary results, in order to strengthen the application for 2026. The project requests funds for 50% of four months salary for the new postdoctoral research associate in Geophysical Ore body modelling to perform this pilot study, and assist with updating and improving the DP application. Funds will be requested for a research associate within the DP application, and thus, if successful, the research associate would take up this role for the DP following the completion of their Trailblazer postdoctoral position.
Enhancing Battery Control and Market Integration for Renewable Support: Applications in Solar Firming and Dispatchable Generation
This project explores how advanced battery control strategies can enable renewable energy—particularly solar PV—to provide reliable, dispatchable power. It involves collaboration with US experts to develop market-aligned battery applications and educational materials that support Australia’s clean energy transition.
Enhancing Battery Control and Market Integration for Renewable Support: Applications in Solar Firming and Dispatchable Generation
This project explores how advanced battery control strategies can enable renewable energy—particularly solar PV—to provide reliable, dispatchable power. It involves collaboration with US experts to develop market-aligned battery applications and educational materials that support Australia’s clean energy transition.
An Australian social prescribing implementation framework: Piloting a co-design approach
This pilot project will use a co-design approach to inform an implementation framework for social prescribing tailored to the Australian context. Through a series of workshops and interviews with key stakeholders—including service providers and consumers—investigators will identify systemic and operational challenges, opportunities for improvement, and the support structures needed for sustainable implementation. This participatory, iterative process will enable stakeholders to prioritise key areas of focus, ensuring the development of the framework is grounded in real-world needs and responsive to Australia’s diverse health and social care environments. Findings will be shared with the broader sector and will inform a subsequent large-scale funding application to co-design, implement, and evaluate a national social prescribing framework.
A rationally designed vaccine for tuberculosis (Old ID 26852)
Tuberculosis kills more people than any other infectious disease, and approximately one third of the world's population is latently infected with Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Reactivation of latent tuberculosis is associated with immunosuppressive conditions, most notably AIDS and type 2 diabetes. This project aims to investigate correlates of protection against tuberculosis in these immunosuppressive conditions by using innovative mouse models and human samples and to develop a new TB vaccine.
Supporting Participatory Evidence generation to Control Transmissible diseases in our Region Using Modelling (SPECTRUM) (Old ID 26936)
SPECTRUM is a centre for research excellence in decision science and includes chief investigators from the University of Melbourne, Australian National University and University of Adelaide. It focusses on data synthesis for policy decision making, particularly in relation to pandemic planning, emerging infectious diseases and other infectious dieases threats.
Develop an autonomous AI vehicle damage assessment tool (Phase II) (Old ID 27223)
Improvement upon the project 1 developed method for automated detection, identification and categorisation of vehicle panel damage by developing a user interface and video vision. Semantic segmentation and deep learning networks will be further refined and developed for the next evolution/iteration of the software platform.
Project CaNE (Old ID 27277)
The CaNE™ project will work with farmers to drive productive, financially, and environmentally sustainable farming systems. The project will address the issue of DIN being exported from the farm into freshwater and marine ecosystems within the Catchment area, while maintaining cane productivity. TropWATER is to provide local water quality monitoring support to local agronomic extension providers to facilitate farming practice change to produce water quality benefits in the lower Herbert River canegrowing region. The water quality monitoring program will involve scientific engagement, communication and education surrounding local water quality processes associated with agriculture.
Novel therapeutics for diabetes sourced from Northern Australian biota. (Old ID 27321)
The aim of this project is to develop lead diabetes drug candidates from hookworm saliva and build a package for multinational commercial investment. The project aims to deliver the following outcomes: 1. Screen a synthetic hookworm library (consisting of hundreds of hookworm proteins) for anti-inflammatory activity and express lead candidates using pharmaceutical industry standard techniques. 2. Assess efficacy of leads in mouse models of diet-induced T2D. 3. Understand the mechanism of lead drug action and prioritize candidates for progression into clinical development. 4. Set the scene for a burgeoning biotech industry in Northern Australia that is differentiated from those in the south, and indeed globally, by capitalizing on the unique biodiversity of the region and the therapeutic opportunities it presents.
An evaluation of resilience in medical students on rural rotations
Resilience, defined as the ability to adapt and recover from stress, adversity, and challenges, is an essential attribute for medical students and professionals (Fletcher & Sarkar, 2013). It serves as a critical factor in sustaining mental well-being, maintaining academic performance, and preventing burnout in the demanding context of medical training (McKinley et al., 2019; Tempski et al., 2015). The pathway to becoming a doctor is marked by a significant academic workload, emotional challenges, and high expectations, all of which contribute to heightened stress levels (Dyrbye et al., 2014).
Rural clinical rotations are integral to many medical training programs, and offer students unique learning experiences and exposure to a diverse patient population. often present distinct challenges, such as isolation from peer support and limited resources, which can influence students' mental health and overall resilience (McGrail et al., 2017). While these experiences can enhance clinical skills and encourage a commitment to rural practice (Sen Gupta et al., 2013), they may also place additional stress on students that can impact their resilience (Wearne & Baker, 2012).
Previous studies have suggested that rural experiences can contribute positively to resilience by fostering adaptability, independence, and confidence - qualities that contribute to a doctor's ability to manage complex situations effectively (Smith et al., 2018). However, the intensity and unfamiliarity of rural placements can also heighten emotional and psychological stress (Johnson & Wright, 2021). While some students thrive in these environments, others may experience heightened stress that challenges their coping mechanisms (MacLeod et al., 2021). Understanding these varied outcomes is essential for developing strategies to support medical students and ensure their well-being throughout their training.
Measurement of resilience in medical education research has often relied on validated tools such as the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC). The CD-RISC has been widely used due to its comprehensive assessment of resilience, covering aspects like perseverance, confidence under pressure, and adaptability (Connor & Davidson, 2003; Campbell-Sills & Stein, 2007).
This study aims to investigate the impact of rural clinical rotations on the resilience of medical students at James Cook University across different training stages (2nd, 4th, and 6th years). Such insights are invaluable for shaping medical curricula that promote psychological resilience, enhance academic performance, and support retention in rural healthcare practices. By identifying how resilience changes throughout these rotations, medical schools can tailor interventions that strengthen students' coping mechanisms, ultimately contributing to their long-term professional and personal development.
Objectives
• To measure and compare the levels of resilience in 2nd, 4th, and 6th-year medical students before and after their rural clinical rotations.
• To assess any correlations between changes in resilience and year of study or demographic variables (e.g., age, gender, prior rural experience).