IEIF ASEAN Research Collaboration Project – Round 2 successful applicants

IEIF ASEAN Research Collaboration Project – Round 2 successful applicants

We are pleased to announce the list of Early Career Researchers (ECRs) selected for Round 2 of the International Education Innovation Fund ASEAN Research Collaboration Project.

Early Career Researchers (ECRs) from Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, the Philippines and Viet Nam have been selected for Round 2 of the International Education Innovation Fund ASEAN Research Collaboration Project, which will commence between 6 October 2025 – 19 December 2025. 

Indonesia

Agus Bahar Rachman

  • Host Organisation:RMIT University
  • Project title:Valorization of Sweet Sorghum Syrup through Maillard Reaction with Animal Proteins: A Binational Approach to Functional Food Innovation and Sustainable Agriculture
  • Project outline: This project explores the valorization of sweet sorghum syrup from Indonesia and Australia through Maillard reactions with animal proteins to develop novel functional food prototypes. The research aims to enhance food quality, promote sustainable agriculture, and support technology transfer for smallholder farmer.
  • Email address: agusrachman@ung.ac.id
  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/agus-bahar-rachman-a914b641/

Angga Dito Fauzi 

  • Host organisation: Flinders University 
  • Project title: MoS2/Silicene Heterostructures as Potential High-Performance Anode Materials for Lithium-Ion Batteries 
  • Project outline: This research project is designed to explore the structural, electronic, and electrochemical properties of MoS2/silicene heterostructures as potential high-performance anode materials for Li-ion batteries through first-principles simulations. Here, the intercalation between Li atoms and MoS2/silicene heterostructures will be explored using density functional theory. The computational workflow will include the interface formation analysis to determine the stability and optimal stacking of MoS2/silicene bilayers. 
  • Email address: a.dito.fauzi@fst.unair.ac.id 
  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angga-dito-fauzi-3a8854192

Angga Hermawan

  • Host Organisation:The University of Melbourne
  • Project title: Upcycling End-of-Life Batteries into Electrocatalysts for Sustainable Hydrogen Production and Biomass Valorizations
  • Project outline: Our project tackles the challenge of end-of-life lithium-ion batteries by upcycling their cathode materials into nanostructured electrocatalysts. These catalysts will enable sustainable productions of fuels and chemicals, reducing reliance on mining while supporting a circular battery economy
  • Email address: angga.hermawan@brin.go.id
  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angga-hermawan-382737138/

Belladini Lovely

  • Host Organisation: Edith Cowan University
  • Project title: Food waste-based cellulose as a sustainable/renewable filler in microplastics-and-fouling resistant forward osmosis membrane
  • Project outline: Microplastics pollution, one of which is sourced from wastewater, is a raising concern across the globe, including Australia and ASEAN. Likewise, with food waste (e.g., produce), which has potential as cellulose source. This project will determine the prospects of the designed forward osmosis membrane system aiming for better removal of microplastics and organic foulants, while making use of abundant food waste.
  • Email address: beldinlov13@vt.edu | beldinlov13@gmail.com
  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/belladinilovely/

Dewi Syahidah

  • Host Organisation: James Cook University
  • Project title: Application of Passive eDNA Sampling to Monitor Viral Pathogens in Aquatic Environments
  • Project outline: This project will focus on applying passive environmental DNA (eDNA)sampling to detect viral and parasitic pathogens in fish populations. The internship will provide training in molecular techniques, laboratory practices, and field applications to support pathogen monitoring.
  • Email address: dewi050@brin.go.id
  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dewi-syahidah-ph-d-a41029236/?locale=in_ID

Dian Retno Sari Dewi

  • Host Organisation: RMIT University
  • Project title: Pathways to Dematerialization and Strong Sustainability in the Green Economy: Overcoming Consumer Resistance to Product-Service
  • Project outline: This project investigates consumer resistance to use-oriented Product-Service Systems (u-PSS) as a pathway toward dematerialization and strong sustainability in the green economy. Using a sequential mixed-methods approach, the study combines qualitative interviews and quantitative surveys in Indonesia and Australia to examine behavioural, cultural, and psychological barriers to adoption. The findings aim to inform policy, industry strategies, and joint academic publications that support sustainable consumption models across the ASEAN–Australia region.
  • Email address: dianretnosd@ukwms.ac.id

I Made Wahyu Wijaya

  • Host Organisation:The University of Melbourne
  • Project title: Enhancing Nutrient Recovery from Wastewater Using Magnesium-Activated Biochar and Potential Integration with Electrochemical Process
  • Project outline: This project explores nutrient recovery by using biochar adsorbent and electrochemical processes. The research will generate datasets, configuration process, and develop a circular economy solution for sustainable wastewater across ASEAN and Australia.
  • Email address: wijaya@unmas.ac.id
  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/madewahyuwijaya/

Isyna Izzal Muna

  • Host Organisation:The University of Melbourne
  • Project title: Development of sustainable biocomposite filament from durian skin fiber and PLA for additive manufacturing application
  • Project outline: The project aims to create an eco-friendly biocomposite filament by combining Indonesian durian skin fibre with polylactic acid (PLA) for use in 3D printing, turning agricultural waste into a high-performance manufacturing material. The research will optimise production methods, evaluate mechanical and printing properties, and assess the commercial potential for market-ready filament.
  • Email address: isyna.muna@gmail.com
  • LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/isyna-muna/

Muhammad Al Muttaqii 

  • Host organisation: University of Technology Sydney 
  • Project title: Development of Biomass-Derived Porous Magnetic Materials as Green Heterogeneous Catalysts for Biodiesel Production from WCO 
  • Project outline: The research will focus on optimizing catalyst properties to achieve high activity, recyclability, and environmental compatibility. The outcomes are expected to provide a green and cost-effective pathway for renewable fuel production. 
  • Email address: muhammad.al.muttaqii@brin.go.id 
  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/muhammad-al-muttaqii-46498514

Muhammad Indra al Irysad

  • Host Organisation:CQUniversity
  • Project title: Pathways for Circular Mining in Indonesia and Australia
  • Project outline: TThis project examines circular economy practices in mining across Australia and Indonesia. It identifies key technical and policy gaps. A supply chain model and recommendations will be proposed to support broader adoption and environmental impact reduction.
  • Email address: m.indra.al.irsyad@brin.go.id
  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/m-indra-al-irsyad-58708069/

Nova Eka Budiyanta

  • Host Organisation: RMIT University
  • Project title: Pathways for Circular Mining in Indonesia and Australia
  • Project outline: 3D LiDAR Point Cloud Processing for Human Localisation in Industrial Safety Monitoring Towards Digital Twin Systems
  • • Project outline: This project will develop a proof-of-concept system for real-time human localisation using 3D LiDAR point cloud data, with an exploratory step towards integrating the system into a digital twin framework, supporting the industrial work safety environment.
  • Email address: nova.eka@atmajaya.ac.id
  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/novabudiyanta

Novalia Rachmawati 

  • Host organisation: University of Tasmania  
  • Project title: Histamine Risk Throughout the Cold Chain: Characterising Psychrophilic and Mesophilic Histamine-Producing Bacteria in Retail Tuna in Indonesia 
  • Project outline: This study aims to characterise mesophilic and psychrophilic histamine-producing bacteria (HPB) in tuna sold at Indonesian retail outlets and to evaluate their potential for histamine formation under cold storage conditions. Through histamine quantification, microbial community profiling, and qPCR assays, the project will generate data on the community structure of HPB and their activities. The results will provide a scientific basis for refining risk assessment models and developing evidence-based handling recommendations for tuna retail in Indonesia. 
  • Email address: novalia.rachmawati@brin.go.id 
  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/novaliarachmawati/

Radestya Triwibowo

  • Host Organisation: University of Tasmania
  • Project title: Development of Molecular Tools for AMR Surveillance in Indonesian Aquaculture
  • Project outline: This project aims to develop rapid and scalable molecular tools using multiplex PCR and portable MinION sequencing, to detect antimicrobial-resistant bacteria and resistance genes in aquaculture products from Indonesia. By analysing samples from shrimp, fish, water, sediment, and feed, it will generate detailed resistance profiles and build local capacity in molecular diagnostics and bioinformatics. The outcomes will support national AMR surveillance and One Health strategies through hands-on training and collaborative research. This project aims to develop rapid and scalable molecular tools using multiplex PCR and portable MinION sequencing, to detect antimicrobial-resistant bacteria and resistance genes in aquaculture products from Indonesia. By analysing samples from shrimp, fish, water, sediment, and feed, it will generate detailed resistance profiles and build local capacity in molecular diagnostics and bioinformatics. The outcomes will support national AMR surveillance and One Health strategies through hands-on training and collaborative research.
  • Email address: radestya.triwibowo@brin.go.id
  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/radestya-triwibowo-40b85961/

Riostantieka Mayandari Shoedarto

  • Host organisation: The Australian National University
  • Project title: Evidence to Action in Geothermal Highlands: Integrating Geochemistry and Local Knowledge for Hazard Index Maps
  • Project outline: The project translates hydrochemical data and local knowledge into a Hazard Index profiles and map that clearly shows geogenic risks in an active geothermal landscape. We will test the materials with residents and stakeholders, refine the visuals and messages, and deliver a working map with plain-language briefs plus a draft journal article on the gap between perception and exposure.
  • Email address: riostantieka.mayandari.shoedarto@brin.go.id 
  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/riostantieka-mayandari-shoedarto-4b050737/

Supatmi 

  • Host organisation: The Australian National University
  • Project title: Comparative Identification of Conserved Flowering-Time Genes for Early Maturity Improvement in Major Cereal Crops and Functional Genome Editing in Rice Using Viral Vectors
  • Project outline: This project aims to identify conserved flowering-time genes across major cereal crops to support the development of early-maturing varieties. Using rice as a model, genome editing will be applied through viral vector systems to functionally validate target genes. The outcomes will provide insights for crop improvement and food security.
  • Email address: supa034@brin.go.id
  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/supatmi-tarnowiharjo-69aa3442/

Syafieq Fahlevi Almassawa

  • Host organisation: RMIT University
  • Project title: Sustainable Urban Mobility Planning (SUMP) Comparative Framework for ASEAN Cities
  • Project outline: This project will develop a Sustainable Urban Mobility Planning (SUMP) framework tailored for ASEAN cities. It will use mixed methods and case studies from Indonesia, the Philippines, and Vietnam to identify key challenges and solutions. The findings will provide practical recommendations for inclusive, low-carbon. and resilient urban transport.
  • Email address: syafieq.fahlevi@yahoo.com
  • LinkedIn: https://id.linkedin.com/in/syafieq-fahlevi-almassawa-b554b63a

Tessa Siswina

  • Host organisation: The University of Newcastle
  • Project title: From Plant to Formulation: Red Betel (Piper Crocatum) Herbal Drink as a Functional Food for Women's Reproductive Health
  • Project outline: This research is to analyze the anti-cancer potential against HeLa cells in cervical cancer discovered by in vitro and in silico (molecular docking, molecular dynamics, ADMET, and drug likeness analysis), and make a formulation design of herbal drink based on Red Betel leaves (Piper crocatum) that are safe, high quality, and meet Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) regulations.
  • Email address: tessasiswina.siswadi@gmail.com

Tuti Siregar

  • Host organisation: University of Technology Sydney
  • Project title: Strengthening Regional Seafood Safety: Integrated Molecular and Chemical Approaches for Marine Biotoxin Detection
  • Project outline: This project aims to enhance water quality monitoring by integrating molecular and chemical assays to quantify marine biotoxin-producing organisms. The activities will involve the collection and preparation of samples, molecular identification of biotoxin-producing species and toxin quantification.
  • Email address: tuti008@brin.go.id | tutisiregar@outlook.com
  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tuti-siregar-002271a2

Yunarso Anang

  • Host organisation: Queensland University of Technology
  • Project title: Developing a Framework for Ethical and Principle-Based Application of AI and Big Data Analytics in Official Statistics Production
  • Project outline: This project develops a framework for the ethical use of AI and Big Data in official statistics. It examines alignment with UN principles, addresses ethical and technical challenges, and uses BPS Statistics Indonesia as a case study. The outcome includes a validated framework and guidelines to ensure innovation supports integrity and public trust.    
  • Email address: tessasiswina.siswadi@gmail.com
  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yunarso-anang-b7855791

Malaysia

Ahmad Hafiz Bin Mohd Hashim

Lee Sue Han

Nurul Aimi Ghazali

  • Host organisation: The University of Adelaide
  • Project title: Smart Cement Mixtures for Enhancing Wellbore Integrity in CO₂ and H₂ Storage Wells
  • Project outline: This project explores novel cement mixtures designed to withstand the demanding conditions of CO₂ injection and underground hydrogen storage (UHS) wells, ensuring safer, more reliable, and sustainable energy storage
  • Email address: nurulaimi@uitm.edu.my
  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nurul-aimi-ghazali-07bab057/

Thailand

Arnon Chukamnerd

  • Host organisation: The University of Queensland
  • Project title: Deciphering the Molecular Mechanisms of Klebsiella Contamination in Raw Meats via Transcriptomic Analysis
  • Project outline: This project focuses on experimental work and RNA sequencing, followed by bioinformatics analysis to identify differential gene expression and pathway enrichment. The findings will be interpreted and discussed with supervisors.
  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/arnon-chukamnerd-78930027a?

Kitipong Angsujinda

  • Host organisation: The University of Queensland
  • Project title: Development of a self-amplifying RNA vaccine targeting Lumpy Skin Disease Virus (LSDV) using novel antigen constructs
  • Project outline: Self-amplifying RNA (saRNA) constructs for priority antigens will be assembled, saRNA generated via in-vitro transcription, and delivery optimized in bovine cells. RNA amplification will be quantified by qPCR, and antigen expression confirmed by Western blot using in-house rabbit polyclonal antibodies.
  • Email address: kitipong.an@chula.ac.th
  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kitipong-angsujinda-a28330330/

Sakraan Sitcharangsie

  • Host organisation: The University of Adelaide
  • Project title: Benchmarking Circular Manufacturing Readiness in the Food and Beverage Sector Using Multi-Criteria Decision-Making (MCDM) Methods in Thailand and Australia
  • Project outline: This project applies a Multi-Criteria Decision-Making sentences framework to assess and compare circular manufacturing readiness in the Thai and Australian food and beverage sectors. Findings will inform policy, guide industry strategies, and provide a transferable tool for ASEAN Australia collaboration.
  • Email address: sakraan.s@rmutp.ac.th
  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sakraan-sitcharangsie-00269ba5/

Tanakamol Mahawan

  • Host organisation: The University of Queensland
  • Project title: Genomic Surveillance of AMR in Poultry Feed and Pathogens Using Machine Learning
  • Project outline: This project will use metagenomic and genomic data with machine learning model to predict AMR profiles in poultry systems. Outcomes include a reproducible workflow, an AMR gene database, and tools that strengthen One Health surveillance and food safety.
  • Email address: m.tanakamol@gmail.com
  • LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/tanakamol-mahawan-victor-30276897

Wisuwat Thongphichai

  • Host organisation: Curtin University
  • Project title: Unlocking the functional and commercial potential of Australian indigenous food plants through advanced phenolic profiling and antioxidant analysis
  • Project outline: This project investigates the phenolic profiles and antioxidant activities of selected Australian indigenous food plants to support their nutritional and commercial value and assess their potential as novel functional food ingredients.
  • Email address: wisuwat.tho@mahidol.ac.th
  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wisuwat-thongphichai-89a4ab281

The Philippines

Riovie Ramos

  • Host organisation: The University of Western Australia
  • Project title: Holocene growth and coral community structure of a historically turbid reef environment
  • Project outline: This study aims to reconstruct Holocene reef growth and bioconstruction of an exposed turbid reef along Exmouth Gulf to link long-term environmental conditions with present-day coral communities. Outputs include a turbidity-regime classification and a Holocene baseline, highlighting resilience traits and management implications under warming and rising seas.
  • Email address: rramos@ntu.edu.sg

Vietnam

Dang Nhu Quynh 

  • Host organisation: Murdoch University
  • Project title: Research on the Isolation and Identification of Fungal Species Associated with the Polyphagous Shot-Hole Borer (PSHB) in Western Australia
  • Project outline: This research aims to detect the fungal species associated with the Polyphagous Shot-Hole Borer (PSHB) in Western Australia through field sampling, fungal isolation, and molecular identification. And the result will compare with those previously documented in Vietnam and other countries to identify global patterns of PSHB-fungus association. To support biosecurity surveillance and integrated pest management strategies for protecting forest and urban landscapes in WA.
  • Email address: dangnhuquynh@vafs.gov.vn | quynhfsiv@gmail.com 
  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.comfln/quynh-dang-a81ab084/

Duong Long Van

  • Host organisation: University of New England
  • Project title: Novel Candidates for Hydrogen Storage Materials
  • Project outline: This project focuses on the physicochemical analysis of candidate structures to assess their thermodynamic stability and hydrogen storage potential. The outcomes will be consolidated into a manuscript for peer-reviewed publication, while also exploring opportunities for future research collaborations.
  • Email address: duongvanlong@vlu.edu.vn

Ngoc Ha Vi VU

  • Host organisation: Murdoch University
  • Project title: Development of oleogel from jackfruit seed starch as a fat-replacer in low-fat spreads
  • Project outline: The primary objective of this project is to engineer a starch-based fat replacer through the chemical modification of starch extracted from jackfruit seeds. By transforming agricultural byproducts into a valuable, functional ingredient, the research offers a technical solution for fat reduction while simultaneously enhancing farming sustainability and reducing waste.
  • Email address: vivnh@hcmuaf.edu.vn

Nguyen Minh Thai

  • Host organisation: The University of Adelaide
  • Project title: A Synergistic Approach to Control Vibriosis in Shrimp Aquaculture: Integrating Phage-Antibiotic Conjugates with Probiotics
  • Project outline: This project develops a new strategy to control bacterial diseases in shrimp aquaculture. The strategy combines phage-antibiotic conjugates (BACs) with probiotics. We will isolate phages, optimize the BAC formulation, and then test its efficacy in labs and on shrimp. The goal is to reduce antibiotic use and enhance seafood safety.
  • Email address: minhthai2511@ump.edu.vn
  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thai-nguyen-minh-2031b1177/

Nguyen Thanh Hao  

  • Host organisation: The University of Sydney 
  • Project title: Biodegradable electrospun nanofiber loaded with plant-protective phage for sustainable agriculture and food packaging  
  • Project outline: This project aims to develop electrospun nanofibers incorporating bacteriophages for sustainable antimicrobial applications. By optimizing electrospinning parameters and evaluating phage stability and release, the study seeks to create innovative biomaterials that reduce reliance on antibiotics. The outcomes will provide a basis for future applications in agriculture and healthcare.  
  • Email address: nguyen_hao1638@yahoo.com | nguyenthanhhao@vnua.edu.vn 
  • LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/thanh-hao-nguyen-12b213137

Nguyen Thi Thuy Hang 

  • Host organisation: University of New South Wales
  • Project title: Reconstruction of 500-year Daily River Flow based on Tree-Ring Data to Support Long-Term Water Resource Management
  • Project outline: The project aims to extend the methodology for disaggregating annual tree-ring data to reconstruct 500-year daily flow series, contributing to long-term water resource management. Data to cross-validate the approach will be collected from both Australian and Vietnamese catchments.
  • Email address: ntthang@hcmus.edu.vn
  • LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/hang-nguyen-8437a3221

Nhung Duong

  • Host organisation: The University of Queensland
  • Project title: Enhancing Biopesticide Efficacy through Nano-Encapsulation for Macadamia Spotting Bug Control
  • Project outline: Nano-encapsulation is used to enhance the stability and efficacy of biopesticides against macadamia spotting bugs. Lab assays will compare bulk, micro, vs. nano forms, providing proof-of-concept for a more efficient drug delivery platform.
  • Email address: nhungduong@hcmut.edu.vn
  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nhungduong/

Phuong Linh Ngo

  • Host organisation: University of Technology Sydney
  • Project title: Leveraging Machine Learning to Predict and Optimise Biogas Generation from Thermally Treated Waste Activated Sludge
  • Project outline: This project aims to develop machine learning models to predict and optimise biogas yield from thermally treated waste-activated sludge. It will involve data collection, model training, and sensitivity analysis. The internship promotes knowledge exchange and capacity building between Australia and ASEAN in sustainable resource recovery.
  • Email address: Plinhntu@gmail.com
  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ngo-linh-3299a3152/

Thi Thu Huong Nguyen

  • Host organisation: The University of Queensland
  • Project title: Precise carbohydrate feeding for poultry gut health and pathogen reduction
  • Project outline: This research focuses on solving major poultry industry challenges in both ASEAN and Australia by improving feed efficiency and gut health. Through an in vitro cecal fermentation model, it will test how carbohydrate substrates influence gut microbiota and colonisation of avian bacterial pathogens. The outcomes will provide practical, science-based strategies to support sustainable poultry production across the region.
  • Email address: nguyenthithuhuongcb@tuaf.edu.vn

Thi Thuy Anh Vu

  • Host organisation: RMIT University
  • Project title: Application of the Automated Simulation of Concrete Cracks (ASCC) framework for sustainable construction.
  • Project outline: This internship project focuses on extending the Automated Simulation of Concrete Cracks (ASCC) framework to model branching crack propagation in concrete structures using a phase-field approach within Abaqus. Alongside the technical development, the project also explores sustainable concrete materials, aligning with ongoing research at RMIT. The outcomes are expected to contribute to a high-quality journal publication and foster future collaborations in sustainable construction.
  • Email address: anhvutt@vnu.edu.vn

Vo Tran Vy Khanh

  • Host organisation: Griffith University
  • Project title: Real-time In-situ Process Monitoring and Optimisation for Sustainable Protein Production
  • Project outline: This research aims to combine precision sensing techniques with high-fidelity CFD modelling to monitor the complex food flow behaviours during processing, thus ensuring the consistent quality and safety of the food products.
  • Email address: vykhanhvotran@gmail.com  
  • LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/vo-tran-vy-khanh-864077176

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Acknowledgement of Country

RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business - Artwork 'Sentient' by Hollie Johnson, Gunaikurnai and Monero Ngarigo.

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