As SIMPLE as that: Research program delivers opportunities for students

Nine emerging researchers recently gained invaluable hands-on experience at the University of Southern Queensland’s (UniSQ) third Summer Research Program.

Led by the Centre for Future Materials’ SIMPLE Hub, the Summer Research Program runs for 12 weeks and provides undergraduate and Masters coursework students the opportunity to develop and lead their own project alongside experienced UniSQ researchers.

As part of the 2025 Summer Research Program, students had the choice of several different projects focusing on sustainable materials, renewable energy, or sustainable medical technologies.

Data and insights from the students’ projects will help to develop novel materials, inform future research, and potentially be published in high-quality journal publications.

• Stuart Lynch researched the evaluation of recyclability of used Nylon 6 rod guides through characterisation and material testing. Supervisors: Professor Allan Manalo and Chundu Tamang.
• Harley Redmann looked at repurposing waste glass aggregate for reuse in concrete. Supervisor: Dr Hannah Seligmann.
• Ewa Jadwiszczak aimed to improve the transport efficiency of recyclable containers. Supervisor: Zahra Parhizi.
• Brenda Coelho looked at repurposing landfill wastes for sustainable and flood resilient roads. Supervisor: Dr Hannah Seligmann.
• Deepak Kandel investigated novel materials for sustainability practices. Supervisor: Associate Professor Andreas Helwig.
• Mark Fielding used machine learning models to predict biocrude yield of hydrothermal processes. Supervisor: Dr David (Hong-Duc) Pham.
• Alissa Tan investigated developing extra cellular matrixes to support cellular growth in a novel 3D printed scaffold. Supervisors: Dr Louisa Windus and Alissa Reinke.
• Mahith Kodituwakku researched a circular economy demonstrator reusable lumbar spine model. Supervisors: Dr Nikita Walz and Professor Eliza Whiteside.
• Adriano Ezequiel Mastoy explored the simulation of pipeline repair technologies for sustainable clean energy infrastructure. Supervisors: Professor Allan Manalo and Dr Shanika Kiriella.

Find out more about UniSQ’s Centre for Future Materials.