IEIF ASEAN Research Collaboration Project – Round 1 successful applicants

IEIF ASEAN Research Collaboration Project – Round 1 successful applicants

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

39 Early Career Researchers (ECRs) from Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Thailand and Viet Nam have been selected for Round 1 of the International Education Innovation Fund ASEAN Research Collaboration Project, which will commence between 2 June 2025 to 29 August 2025. 

Indonesia

Nugroho Adi Sasongko

  • Host Organisation:The Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT) as main host, and together/ joint research with CSIRO in Melbourne and Murdoch University in Perth
  • Project title: Developing Circular Economy and Decarbonization Strategies: Geopolymer Technologies and Plastic Waste Utilization in the Built Environment and Resource Industries in Australia and Indonesia
  • Project outline: Developing Circular Economy and Decarbonization Strategies: Geopolymer Technologies and Plastic Waste Utilization in the Built Environment and Resource Industries in Australia and Indonesia

Ariestya Arlene Arbita

Muhsin Al Anas 

  • Host Organisation: The University of Sydney
  • Project title: Nutritional Strategies for Starch–Protein Synchronisation to Improve Poultry Performance and Sustainability
  • Project outline: This international research opportunity will support shared goals between Australia and ASEAN, particularly Indonesia, in advancing sustainable poultry production. As poultry remains a key protein source in both regions, improving feed efficiency and reducing environmental impact are crucial to strengthening food security and climate resilience.

Tarwadi

  • Host Organisation: Monash University
  • Project title: Preparation, Characterisation, and Immune Response Evaluation of Lipid Nanoparticle for Ag85B/ESAT6/ MPT46 Antigen-Based mRNA for TB Vaccine Candidate.
  • Project outline: This project aims to design and evaluate lipid nanoparticle (LNP) formulas in facilitating the expression of Ag85B, ESAT6, and MPT46 encoding mRNA genes to elicit and induce immune response. Delivery of mRNA encoding genes, individually or in combination of the Ag85B/ESAT6/MPT46 facilitated by LNPs, is expected to promote effective cellular and humoral immune responses. Naked mRNA is rapidly degraded by RNases in the extracellular space; therefore, the preparation of the LNPs as an efficient delivery system to carry mRNA molecules and protect them from degradation is very crucial.
  • Email address: tarw001@brin.go.id
  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tarwadi-tarwadi-39047a365/

Aeni Nurlatifah 

  • Host Organisation: University of Western Australia
  • Project title: Metabolomic Adaptations and Reproductive Response of Garut Rams to Normal and Heat Stress
  • Project Outline: This project focuses on the application of metabolomics and bioinformatics to understand reproductive adaptations in Garut rams under tropical heat stress. The internship involves collaborative research activities at the University of Western Australia, including supervised data analysis, draft publication, and scientific communication.
  • Email address: aeninurlatifah@ugm.ac.id
  • LinkedIn: https://id.linkedin.com/in/aeni-nurlatifah-1860a0249

Ashif Aminulloh Fathnan

  • Host Organisation: The University of New South Wales
  • Project title: Enhancing ASEAN Tea Industry Competitiveness through Metamaterial-Based Wireless Moisture Sensors for Improved Withering Processes
  • Project outline: This research focuses on enhancing ASEAN tea industry competitiveness through the development of innovative metamaterial-based wireless sensors designed to precisely monitor moisture during tea leaf withering. The technology aims to enable more consistent tea production and optimise resource utilisation, thereby strengthening the regional industry.
  • Email address: ashif_fathnan@ieee.org | ashi001@brin.go.id | ashi001@brin.go.id
  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashif-aminulloh-fathnan-b663b6200/

Athhar Manabi Diansyah

  • Host Organisation: University of Western Australia
  • Project title: Bioinformatic Profiling of Proteomic Biomarkers for Thermal Resilience in Garut Rams
  • Project outline: This postdoctoral project aims to analyze proteomic data from Garut rams—an indigenous Indonesian sheep breed—to identify heat-resilience biomarkers in male fertility, leveraging advanced bioinformatics expertise at an Australian institution. Over three months, key activities include protein annotation, pathway analysis, and manuscript preparation. The findings will benefit tropical livestock systems, including Australian breeds, while strengthening ASEAN-Australia collaboration in reproductive biotechnology.
  • Email address: athhar.md@unhas.ac.id
  • LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/athhar-manabi-diansyah-560022349/

Mochamad Furqon Azis Ismail

  • Host Organisation: Australian National University
  • Project title: Surface Water and Ocean Topography (SWOT)- based Monitoring and Analysis of Regional Indonesian Seas Topography (SMART)
  • Project outline: Utilise the new Surface Water Ocean Topography satellite observations to characterise sub-mesoscale eddies and internal waves in the Banda Sea. These sub-mesoscale circulations, including eddies and internal waves, occur over small spatial scales and short timeframes, and they are essential for determining effective maritime navigation routes. Gaining a better understanding of these features can enhance optimal shipping routes through weather routing, ultimately reducing fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.
  • Email address: mfur001@brin.go.id  

Anggito Tetuko 

  • Host Organisation: RMIT University
  • Area of focus: Fuel Cell Heat Removal with Metal Hydride (MH) Hydrogen Storage canisters using Heat Pipe Heat Exchanger (HPHEX) to support the Net Zero Emissions in Australia and ASEAN Regions
  • Project outline: The energy sector is a key factor in a country's development, particularly the renewable energy which can reduce the emissions caused by the fossil fuels. The new technology in the PEM Fuel Cell and hydrogen storage system is an essential renewable energy device that is required to be implemented.

Wibowo Harry Sugiharto 

  • Host Organisation: University of Adelaide
  • Project title:  Validating the effectiveness of a low-cost, IoT-based Water Quality Index model (IoTWQI) as a first-stage screening tool before conventional laboratory-based WQI testing.
  • Project outline: This project validates the IoTWQI model as a low-cost water quality screening tool, tested in Australia for broader ASEAN relevance.
  • Email address: wibowo.harrys@umk.ac  

Lina Herliana 

  • Host Organisation: Australian National University 
  • Project title: Genome-wide Identification and Characterisation of Fertility Restorer Genes in Crop Plants 
  • Project outline: This project investigates fertility restorer (Rf) genes involved in hybrid crop breeding. We will analyse their diversity, organisation, and expression in sorghum, wheat, barley, and other plants.
  • Email address: lina008@brin.go.id
  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/herlianal12/

Edza Aria Wikurendra 

  • Host Organisation: Curtin University 
  • Project title: Biopellets cow dung with adhesive from agriculture waste for biomass based renewable energy  
  • Project outline: This research aims to develop environmentally friendly biopellets using cow dung as the primary biomass material, combined with natural adhesives derived from agricultural waste such as cassava peels, banana stems, or rice husk extracts. The project addresses two major challenges: managing livestock and agricultural waste, and enhancing access to sustainable, low-cost renewable energy sources in rural and semi-urban areas. 
  • Email address: edzaaria@curtin.edu.my 
  • LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/wikurendra/

Sari Nurulita 

  • Host Organisation: The University of Queensland
  • Project title: Identification of recently detected viruses infecting Indonesian shallot and garlic and an investigation of the cause of the janda pi rang (blonde widow) disease of shallot in Java
  • Project outline: This project will focus on understanding of epidemiology of blonde widow disease of shallot. In addition, allexivirus also will be analysed as it is new record in Indonesia.
  • Email address: sarinurulita@apps.ipb.ac.id
  • LinkedIn: https:/fid.linkedin.com/in/sari-nurulita-2bb782225

Iwan Sumarlan 

  • Host Organisation: University of Sydney 
  • Project title: Synthesis of sodium-ion battery positive electrode materials with particle morphology control 
  • Project outline: The synthesis of positive cathode based on NaNi₀.₆Fe₀.₂₅Mn₀.₁₅O₂ Via solid state method. The materials are then characterised using XRD, SEM EDX, and XPS and then tested for battery systems. 
  • Email address: i.sumarlan@unram.ac.id 

Fathan Bahfie 

  • Host Organisation: RMIT University
  • Project title: Hydrophobic solvents for nickel-cobalt extraction from laterite and secondary resources (reused batteries)
  • Project outline: Green Mineral Processing
  • Email address: fath007@brin.go.id

 

Laos

Khamtan Phonetip 

  • Host Organisation: University of Melbourne
  • Project title: Developing a Hybrid Solar-Kiln Drying System for Agricultural Food and Timber
  • Project outline: This project aims to develop a hybrid solar-kiln drying system for agricultural food and timber products, integrating solar energy with supplementary heating to enhance drying efficiency and product quality. It focuses on optimising airflow, temperature control, and energy use through simulation and field testing. The hybrid design ensures consistent drying performance by maintaining energy input during cloudy or rainy days, making it a reliable and climate resilient solution for tropical regions like Laos.
  • Email address: k.phonetip@nuol.edu.la

Malaysia

Mohamad Hamdi Zainal Abidin 

  • Host Organisation: RMIT University
  • Project title: Sustainable Biomass Valorisation: Biological  Activity of Deep Eutectic Solvent-Extracted Phenolic-Rich Compounds
  • Project outline: This research proposes a green biorefinery approach using DESs as dual-purpose extractants and catalysts to efficiently recover lipids and polyphenols from microalgae. It supports sustainable manufacturing aligned with Green Chemistry, SDG 13 (Climate Action), and KEGA 12 by replacing hazardous chemicals with eco-friendly alternatives.
  • Email address: mohamadhamdi@utm.my
  • LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/mohamad-hamdi-1064b343/

Nurhafiza binti Zainal 

  • Host Organisation: The University of Adelaide
  • Project title: Investigating the protective efficacy of whole inactivated vaccines for influenza and Newcastle disease virus.
  • Project outline: This project will develop photon-inactivated vaccines for ND and Influenza A and evaluate their immune responses and protective efficacy in poultry models.
  • Email address: nurhafizazainal@um.edu.my
  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nurhafiza-zainal-1 b603452/

Low Liang Ee

  • Host Organisation: Monash University
  • Project title: Stimuli-responsive polymers for polyHIPE preparation
  • Project outline: This project focuses on the development of stimuli-responsive polyHIPE particles for biomedical applications. Particularly, factors such as the incorporation of smart polymer, pore size reduction approaches and drug loading will be investigated.
  • Email address: low.liangee@monash.edu
  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/liang-ee-low-5505569a/

Habsah Binti Alwi

  • Host Organisation: Queensland University of Technology 
  • Project title: Optimising Drying Techniques for Enhancing the Shelf Life and Quality of Selected Australian Agricultural Products (Avocados) 

Thailand

Grittima Kongprawes 

  • Host Organisation: Australian National University
  • Project title: Investigation and characterisation of plasma active species for large-scale wastewater treatment
  • Project outline: Plasma and fluid modelling from cold plasma wastewater treatment. Plasma reactive species generate during reaction Wastewater treatment using cold plasma process
  • Email address: grittima.gk@hotmail.com
  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/grittima-kongprawes-2331351a3/

Tatchamapan Yoskamtorn 

  • Host Organisation: University of Sydney
  • Project title: Tandem Heterogeneous Catalysis for the Upcycling of Polyolefin Plastic Waste into Hydrocarbon Fuels
  • Project outline: Polyolefin plastics, such as polyethylene and polypropylene, pose sustainability challenges due to their resistance to degradation. This study explores a catalytic approach using tandem dehydrogenation and metathesis catalysts to selectively break polymer bonds and convert plastic waste into valuable hydrocarbon fuels under mild conditions.
  • Email address: tatchamapan.y@chula.ac.th
  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tatchamapan-yoskamtorn-5738a856/?originalSubdomain=th

Samabhorn Sinhabandhu 

  • Host Organisation: The University of Queensland
  • Project title: Developing rapid and reliable molecular diagnostic tools for Banana Bunchy Top Virus (BBTV) and Citrus Tristeza Virus (CTV)
  • Project outline: This project aims to develop rapid and reliable molecular diagnostic tools for BBTV and CTV, it will enable earlier detection and more effective disease management strategies in both regions.
  • Email address: samabharn.b@ku.th 

Kawiporn Chinachanta 

  • Host Organisation: Deakin University
  • Project title: Plant Growth-Promoting Rhizobacteria: A Strategy to Mitigate Heat and Salt Stress in Plant via Nutrient Uptake Enhancement
  • Project outline: This research aims to understand the mechanisms of Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPR) at -80 °C storage (Dr. Bräu) in enhancing nutrient uptake and promoting rice growth under heat and salinity stress.
  • Email address: kawiporn.ch@cmu.ac.th | kawiporn.ch@gmail.com
  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kawiporn-chinachanta-8b93ba32b/

Kanokporn Tangthana-umrung 

  • Host Organisation: Monash University
  • Project title: Influence of organometallic catalysts on the reprocessability of thermoplastic vitrimer from plastic waste
  • Project outline: This research project aims to explore the impact of catalyst on the reprocessabilitsy of thermoplastic vitrimer. Specifically, the focus is on replacing traditional organic compounds with organometallic catalysts to enhance recycling efficiency while maintaining the quality and performance of thermoplastic vitrimer materials. 
  • Email address: Kanokporn.tan@nanotec.or.th
  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kanokporn-tangthana-umrung-552462218

Vietnam

Nguyen Thi Hai 

  • Host Organisation: University of Technology Sydney
  • Project title: Zero waste approach to removing contaminations in the water environment by synthesising novel adsorbents derived from agricultural by-products
  • Project outline: The main aims of this research are to reduce pollution, promote sustainable resource utilisation, provide to safe and clean water, enhance public health, and support sustainable development.
  • Email address: nguyenthihai128@hus.edu.vn

Nguyen Thi Thuy Hang 

  • Host Organisation: University of New South Wales
  • Project title: Improving stream flow predictions by an optimised rainfall-runoff modelling strategy for the best performance across hydrological conditions 
  • Project outline: The model will be further developed, integrated optimisation techniques. New optimisation strategies will be then developed and tested, completed with performance analysis and final report
  • Email address: ntthang@hcmus.edu.vn
  • LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/hang-nguyen-8437a3221

Thanh Thuy Duong 

  • Host Organisation: University of Queensland
  • Project title: Diagnostic approaches for ensuring pest freedom of avocado planting material from ASBVd
  • Project outline: This project focuses on developing a rapid and sensitive molecular diagnostic assay for detecting ASBVd using RT-qPCR and RPA-based methods. The work includes laboratory training, assay optimisation, and comparative analysis of diagnostic efficiency. Results will contribute to improved plant health management and biosecurity strategies.

Thanh Hao Nguyen 

Hoang Thi Tuyet Nhung 

  • Host Organisation: University of Technology Sydney
  • Project title: Upcycling Banana Trunk Waste into Eco-Friendly Materials: A Circular Economy Approach for Sustainable Agriculture and Rural Innovation
  • Project outline: This project aims to develop and optimise sustainable processes for converting banana trunk waste an abundant agricultural residue in Vietnam and across ASEAN into value-added eco-friendly materials such as biodegradable packaging, handmade paper, vegan leather and natural adsorbents (biochar) for environmental remediation. The project addresses urgent environmental concerns related to agricultural residues while promoting circular economy principles and rural innovation.
  • Email address: nhunghtt@hcmute.edu.vn  

Truong Quang Dung 

  • Host Organisation: University of Queensland 
  • Project title: Enhancing climate-smart coffee value chains: a research collaboration for resilience in Vietnam and Australia.
  • Project outline: The research aims to strengthen climate-smart coffee value chains, enhancing smallholder resilience in Vietnam and Australia. It seeks to foster sustainable agricultural practices, potentially improving livelihoods, food security, and environmental outcomes through cross-regional insights.
  • Email address: dung.truong8@rmit.edu.vn
  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/truong-dung-114a1584/

Kim Thuy Bui 

  • Host Organisation: RMIT University
  • Project title: Strategy for applying biotechnology in improving productivity and quality of temperate fruit crops.
  • Project outline: This project will the following outcomes and benefits: A strategy framework for applying biotechnology in improving productivity and quality of temperate fruit crops in the Northwest region of Vietnam will be designed; The applicant will develop specialised skills in the field of crop biotechnology and post-harvest technology; The initiated research collaborative partnership between Vietnam Institute of Agricultural Engineering and Postharvest Technology and RMIT University will be developed.
  • Email address: bkthuy75@gmail.com  

Doan Thi Kieu Tien 

  • Host Organisation: Sydney University
  • Project title: Leveraging bacteriophages: natural defenders for controlling of bacterial wilt in tomatoes caused by Ralstonia solanacearum 
  • Project outline: Phage, phage conjugate 
  • Email address: dtktien@ctu.edu.vn

Nguyen Van Toai 

  • Host Organisation: University of Queensland
  • Project title:  Vietnamese Smallholders and New Policies: Compliance with EU Deforestation Regulation in the Global Coffee Supply Chain
  • Project outline: I will assess smallholders’ current understanding of legal requirements and investigate how they provide information within the supply chain to meet the requirements of the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR).
  • Email address: nvtoai@hotmail.com
  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/toai-nguyen-75612878/

Le Xuan Truong 

  • Host Organisation: James Cook University
  • Project title: Ore deposit models and the potential of hidden gold-tungsten systems in the central Song Hien Domain
  • Project outline: This project aims to examine the geological evolution and metallogeny of the central Song Hien Domain, focusing on gold and tungsten systems. The goal is to develop exploration models and evaluate the potential for hidden resources.
  • Email address: lexuantruong@humg.edu.vn
  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/truong-le-05580662/

Nguyen An Binh 

  • Host Organisation: University of Southern Queensland
  • Project title:Application of remote sensing and artificial intelligence for agricultural monitoring over the Vietnamese Mekong DeltaHost   

Thi Binh Nguyen Tran 

  • Host Organisation: University of Ǫueensland – The Ǫueensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation (ǪAAFI)
  • Project title: Whole Genome Sequencing in Native Vietnamese Multivoltine Silkworms Using Oxford Nanopore Technology
  • Project outline: This project aims to conduct whole genome sequencing of a native Vietnamese multivoltine silkworm strain using Oxford Nanopore technology, with the goal of generating a high quality genome assembly. It will also enhance the applicant’s bioinformatics skills and contribute to the development of sustainable and science-based sericulture practices in Vietnam.
  • Email address:  ttbnguyen@vnua.edu.vn  

Thi Minh Soan DUONG

  • Host Organisation: University of Wollongong 
  • Project title: Automated Large-scale Crop Disease Monitoring and Yield Prediction Using Drone Multimodal Imaging and Deep Learning 
  • Project outline: This project develops an automated system for large-scale crop disease monitoring and yield prediction using drone-based multimodal imaging and deep learning. It combines aerial data with AI models to detect diseases and estimate yield, aiming to support data-driven decision-making in agriculture.

Tran Anh Duong 

  • Host Organisation: University of Southern Queensland
  • Project title: Development of Smart Rice Cultivation System Based on Alternate Wetting and Drying Irrigation and a Measurement, Reporting, and Verification System for Carbon Credits to Reduce Methane Emissions and Save Water in the High-Quality Rice Production Region of the Mekong Delta 
  • Project outline: RRRR Model, AR Model, Proposal Writing
  • Email address: duong.trananh@vlu.edu.vn
  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/duong-tran-anh-2b234671/
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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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