Research

Local manufacturers risk missing i4.0 express train

A new report on Australian industry’s digital future reveals widespread hesitation to embrace game-changing technologies for fear of cost.

Study charts rising trend of image-based sexual abuse

Image-based sexual abuse in Australia is increasing, according to new research.

Test measures immune response to improve ovarian cancer diagnosis

Researchers have developed a simple blood test that measures the body’s own immune response to improve diagnosis of ovarian cancer.

Wanted: 'untranslatable' words for new Melbourne gaming app

Hygge, noogal or ikigai? Do you know any untranslatable words in languages other than English? Be part of the making of a new, augmented reality game that will bring the city’s diverse languages to life.

Reducing human impact in the Antarctic: Report

Findings from the first wide-ranging environmental assessment of the Australian Antarctic Division’s Casey research station suggest better data will be key to reducing the impact of future operations.

Women not safe from violence in mental health inpatient facilities

Women who spend time in mental health inpatient facilities are not being protected from gender-based violence, according to new research.

RMIT continues leadership in blockchain

RMIT is investing $6 million in its world-leading Blockchain Innovation Hub (BIH), cementing the University’s position as a leader in research and engagement within the new blockchain empowered economy.

How the brain’s immune system could be harnessed to improve memory

When it comes to memory, immune cells are known as the “bad cops” of the brain. But new research shows they could also be turned into “good cops” to power memory and learning.

Strong spirit of collaboration at EFI 2020

RMIT's Engaging for Impact event brought together top academics, innovators and industry partners to showcase the best in research and innovative thinking.

New digital platform maps liveability in our major cities

A groundbreaking new digital platform is set to transform how we map liveability in major cities across the country, in an Australian first.

Sound of music: How melodic alarms could reduce morning grogginess

Beep beep beep or Beach Boys? The sounds you wake up to could be affecting how groggy and clumsy you are in the morning, according to new research.

As cities grow, the Internet of Things can help us get on top of the waste crisis

RMIT experts look at the Internet of Things and how it can be used to develop smarter and more effective ways of managing and reducing waste.

Smarter, more connected: shaping the future of urban life

A decade from now, three in four of us will be living in large cities and Australia's population will be close 30 million

Industry partnership to improve tuna health and grow aquaculture

RMIT researchers are working with Australia’s tuna industry to develop a novel diagnostic testing technique for application on water, to assist tuna farmers to make informed decisions about managing the health of their stock.

Nano-thin flexible touchscreens could be printed like newspaper

Researchers have developed an ultra-thin and ultra-flexible electronic material that could be printed and rolled out like newspaper, for the touchscreens of the future.

Kids rice snacks in Australia contain arsenic above EU guidelines: study

Rice snacks for kids found in Australian supermarkets contain arsenic at levels above European safety guidelines, a new study shows.

Putting people at the heart of health

How do you make integrated care the future of health in Australia? The key is collaboration.

New system warns of powerline faults before they happen

A multi-award winning system that predicts powerline faults before they can cause blackouts or bushfires is being scaled up for commercial release.

Challenges and opportunities: the future of energy, waste and materials

With the rapid onset of urbanisation, we need to harness ethical and sustainable innovations in energy, materials and waste management to foster healthy, inclusive cities and communities.

Bacteria shredding tech to fight drug-resistant superbugs

Researchers have used liquid metals to develop new bacteria-destroying technology that could be the answer to the deadly problem of antibiotic resistance.

Ultrasound can help make 3D-printed alloys stronger

Researchers have used sound vibrations to shake metal alloy grains into tighter formation during 3D printing.

Seven ways the 1969 Transportation Plan shaped Melbourne

Today marks 50 years since the landmark 1969 Transportation Plan. Here, we take a look back on the plan that brought Melbourne its network of freeways and roads, and how its legacy stacks up in 2019.

Give the gift of tech support this Christmas when buying devices for older people

A new survey reveals older Australians are most likely to seek tech advice from their adult children, but it’s not always service with a smile.

What’s next for the future of nutrition?

Forget kombucha and think bugs – an RMIT expert says we need to look towards nutrients and foods that are both kinder to us, and to the planet.

Smart city tech keeps Bendigo residents cool by mapping hot spots

A new smart technology platform launched today in Bendigo will help residents keep cool this summer by mapping the location of urban hot spots in the city to avoid on hot days.

Floral foam adds to microplastic pollution problem: study

As the cut flower industry hits one of its busiest periods, new RMIT research has shown that the water-absorbing green floral foam used by florists is contributing to the world’s microplastic problem.

Adding copper strengthens 3D-printed titanium, study finds

Successful trials of titanium-copper alloys for 3D printing could kickstart a new range of high-performance alloys for medical device and aerospace applications.

Eternal flame burns on after RMIT steps in with repairs

A quick response by manufacturing experts has kept the Eternal Flame at Melbourne’s Shrine of Remembrance from going out.

Blockchain to ease financial risk in creative industries

A new blockchain infrastructure designed for Australia’s creative industries could help overcome problems from missed royalty payments to art fraud and administrative overheads, says a new report.

Screening tech advances early detection of Parkinson’s disease

Screening technology to catch Parkinson’s disease in its earliest stages could be available within three years, following an agreement between RMIT University and start-up company Jesse Medical.

RMIT plays key role in upskilling family violence workforce

RMIT’s Future Social Service Institute (FSSI) will continue to play a key role in upskilling family violence leaders under a new $6m package announced by the Andrews government to tackle the issue.

RMIT named partner in a €3M European research project on how creative practices can contribute to sustainability

The EU Horizon 2020 funded project will highlight how the arts can contribute to addressing a world transformed by climate change.

Eight ways to crowdsource innovation more effectively

Innovation competitions are emerging as a unique and powerful opportunity to meet the grand challenges of curing cancer, climate change, food security and more. But many are set up to fail.

A beginner's guide to 3D printing

RMIT's Alex Kingsbury explains how additive manufacturing works and why it matters for Australian industry as part of a new government training initiative.

Blueprint for building a lived experience workforce

A toolkit for embedding people with experience of mental health challenges into public, private and NGO workplaces has just been launched.

Making peace between sworn enemies: Lessons from a divided region

Born in Sarajevo shortly before the Yugoslav Wars erupted there in 1991, Nerkez Opacin knows first-hand how quickly a society can tear itself apart.

New support for women experiencing early menopause

A new digital resource has brought together the stories of women experiencing early menopause, helping to inform and support others facing the under-recognised condition.

Immune ‘control switch’ could prevent brain injury in premature babies

Researchers have discovered an immune control switch that could protect the brains of premature babies, who often suffer brain injuries when their immune response goes into overdrive.

Australian content scarce in competitive on-demand streaming market

A new report has revealed Australian content makes up a small but stable proportion of the catalogues of the major subscription video streaming services in Australia.

RedbackBots on the road to Bordeaux 2020

RMIT has named its squad to compete at the largest robotics and artificial intelligence competition in the world.

"It’s healing to hear another person’s story and also to tell your own"

A new restorative justice service has been launched by RMIT's Centre for Innovative Justice following a successful pilot program.

Predictive analytics to keep more aged care residents out of Emergency

New software to analyse the clinical data of aged care residents for signs of deteriorating health could reduce emergency hospitalisations and allow more time for end of life plans.

Expanding innovation: New DPVC joins RMIT

Professor Martie-Louise Verreynne has been appointed as the new Deputy Pro Vice-Chancellor Research and Innovation in the College of Business.

Weaving quantum processors out of laser light

Researchers open a new avenue to quantum computing with a breakthrough prototype: a large-scale quantum processor made entirely of light.

Better wages, better care: improving the aged care sector

In her submission and evidence to the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety, RMIT’s Professor Sara Charlesworth urged the Federal Government to address wages and working conditions.

RMIT takes out top honours in national defence awards

RMIT researchers have been recognised for their work in defence research, with one taking home the top prize of Scientist of the Year.

How GPS now helps us forecast rain more accurately

Scientists are using GPS signals to measure air moisture for better weather predictions.

'We should make a game about this': The story behind Untitled Goose Game

RMIT PhD researcher and games designer Michael McMaster proves that research isn’t all work and no play as his now viral Untitled Goose Game takes off.

New research centre to investigate safer automated decision-making

A major new research centre will investigate how rapidly emerging autonomous decision-making technologies can be used safely and ethically for all Australians.

Melbourne as a playable city

This Melbourne International Games Week, the playable cities project explores how technology can reconnect us to our cities and bring urban play to everyday life.

Research to transform biosolid resource management

A new research centre is set to transform Australia’s biosolid use as a valuable resource, providing new practices, technologies and products for improved land management and training.

Human trials begin for first generation gas sensing capsule

Clinical trials of an electronic capsule that measures gases in the gut, first developed at RMIT, have begun in Melbourne.

Non-viral gene therapy to speed up cancer research

A new treatment method promises to speed up gene therapy research and could bring new, patient friendly cancer treatments to market faster.

Affordability the key barrier to getting all Australians online

Findings from the fourth Australian Digital Inclusion Index show that while internet services continue to improve, lower-income households are being priced out.

Government backs RMIT researcher’s sustainable architecture vision

Professor Mike Xie has been awarded one of Australia’s most prestigious competitive grants to expand his research into sustainable, free-form architecture.

Circular economy plan neglects corporate buy-in at its peril

Sustainability experts say the Victorian government’s circular economy strategy will sink if not opened up to business and innovation sectors as an economic development plan, rather than a narrowly-defined waste management issue.

More targeted, less toxic: the golden future of cancer treatment

Researchers have engineered gold-based molecules that target cancer cells and leave healthy cells unharmed, in a critical step towards precision cancer drugs with fewer toxic side effects.

Exhibition brings wilderness ambiance to the city

The exhibition, opening this week at the Yarra Sculpture Gallery, explores how the sounds of the wilderness can transform our urban environments and the wellbeing of their inhabitants.

Meet Tamzin Rollason: Expert in sustainable fashion

Sustainable apparel is in vogue but is it the answer to fashion’s environmental footprint? Researcher Tamzin Rollason delves deeper into the eco-style trend.

Industry meets academia, face to face

The successful trial of a new industry engagement event shows the value of personal relationships for industry collaboration.

New hope for treatment to cure malaria and stop it spreading

The latest finding in a decades long research collaboration looks set to pave the way for the development of new malaria drugs that could both treat and block transmission of the deadly disease.

RMIT leaders to help shape Victoria’s investment in creative industries

Two of RMIT’s highly regarded creative leaders have been appointed to a new advisory group that will help shape the Victorian Government’s strategy and investment in the creative industries from 2020.

War on waste: A tale of two cities

From edible cities to plastic pollution – two RMIT experts share their thoughts on sustainability issues across two continents.

Research improves mental health service quality, wins top prize

Research into how people with lived experience can best contribute to mental health services has been recognised for its impact by industry.

Farmers share local knowledge, build climate change resilience

A community-led collaboration is harnessing local knowledge for a positive regional response to climate change.

Laser printing tech produces waterproof e-textiles in minutes

The next generation of waterproof smart fabrics will be laser printed and made in minutes. That’s the future imagined by the researchers behind new e-textile technology.

Report finds child sponsorship works, but there is room to improve

A major new study on child sponsorship gives the model a tick for positive impact while highlighting ways to improve outcomes for children being left behind.

This high-tech stick can predict your risk of heart problems

A hand-held device to predict heart failure based on saliva could help millions of potential victims take preventative steps to avoid their fate.

Online in the outback

A new podcast from remote Australia reveals how the world’s oldest living culture is embracing mobile technology.

Distracted by rubbish, sustainability plan forgets people

Experts warn a major opportunity to improve sustainability in Victoria could be missed by focusing exclusively on patching up recycling systems while failing to address more fundamental issues.

Lab-on-a-chip drives search for new drugs to prevent blood clots

A tiny lab the size of a postage stamp could be the next big thing in the search for safer anti-clotting drugs to prevent heart attacks and strokes.

Five liveability challenges Melbourne and Bangkok must face together

What can Melbourne and Bangkok learn from each other to improve liveability and wellbeing for their residents?

Rising through world academic rankings

RMIT has continued to rise as a global leader, climbing 16 places in the 2019 Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU).

Five top stories: Putting the spotlight on science

From brainy bees to tech that can create memories in a flash, these are some of our biggest science stories this year so far.

Culture, speed and failure the keys to embracing open innovation

In a world of rapid innovation, how can Australian businesses draw on global expertise to grow and compete? A panel of industry experts discuss the keys to successful collaboration.

Australian city workers’ average commute has blown out to 66 minutes a day. How does yours compare?

The average weekly commuting time in Australia has increased considerably since 2002, and this can have negative impacts on job satisfaction and productivity, RMIT experts say.

DIY balloon pump takes research to the people

A simple pressure pump, made from balloons and nylon stockings, means more people in more places will be able to test water contaminants and blood samples.

On firm ground: Smarter building for stronger homes

New software to assess building sites could save homebuilders thousands by avoiding structural damage caused by soil moisture changes.

Scientists use phone movement to predict personality types

It turns out the pattern of how your mobile phone moves around says a lot about your personality.

Fear of others is making us sick

Research links lower levels of trust in multicultural communities to poorer mental health.

One in five Australians is a victim of ‘revenge porn’, despite new laws to prevent it

Australian laws have come a long way in terms of responding to image-based sexual abuse, but it remains a social, health, legal and criminal policy challenge, RMIT experts say.

Strongman leaders make for weak economies, study shows

A study of dictators over the past 150 years shows they are rarely associated with strong economies, and quite often with weaker ones.

Electronic chip mimics the brain to make memories in a flash

Engineers have mimicked the human brain with an electronic chip that uses light to create and modify memories.

One small step for man, a giant leap for space science

From why women are more efficient astronauts to how space tech can help with bushfire responses, RMIT experts share their insights on current and future space science.

50 years on: Five moon mission facts that'll still wow you

On the 50th anniversary of humanity’s first walk on the moon, we asked a physicist, former astronaut trainer and all-round space nerd to shares her favourite lunar factoids.

Imaging tech advances chronic wound care

Researchers are working with not-for-profit health and aged care provider Bolton Clarke on a clinical trial of imaging technology to improve chronic wound care.

How to stop 20m tons of construction industry waste going to landfill each year

The Australian construction industry has grown significantly in the past two decades leading to a substantial increase in waste produced by construction and demolition.

From hospital to homeless: Victoria’s mental health system fails the most vulnerable

People experiencing homelessness and poor mental health are among Australia’s most vulnerable citizens, RMIT experts say.

‘Spintronic’ research promises faster, more efficient computing

Researchers have discovered new magnetic properties within atomically thin structures, with exciting potential for the emerging field of “spintronics”.

How Antarctica’s ultimate survivor is helping lighten our footprint

Tiny and virtually indestructible, the “moss piglet” is one of Antarctica’s toughest inhabitants. Now it’s helping us understand how to better protect this most extreme and vulnerable environment.

HR failing workers with intellectual disabilities, study finds

Experts are calling for a major rethink of how businesses manage workers with intellectual disabilities, with new research showing they're often left behind in the workplace.

Meet the grandmother who uses Pokémon Go to reconnect with her city

Mundane trips to the market or shops became Pokémon Go adventures in which she would reinvent the routes to capture more Pokémon.

Spreading information security

It’s the one bug you do want to catch: new research has found a culture of security in an organisation can be contagious.

Microgravity research rockets: an opportunity for Australian industry?

Now that Australia has a space agency, the next challenge is to find a niche in the expanding global race to commercialise space, writes physicist Dr Gail Iles.

Goat milk formula could benefit infant gut health: study

Goat milk infant formula has similar prebiotic properties to breast milk and could support healthy gut function in babies, new research suggests.

RMIT ranked among world’s best universities for blockchain research

The University was ranked third in the world for the study of digital currencies, according to a leading provider of institutional grade cryptocurrency market data.

Branching out: Making graphene from gum trees

Researchers have developed a cost-effective and eco-friendly way of producing graphene using one of Australia’s most abundant resources, eucalyptus trees.

Meet Claire Boulange: Expert in urban analytics for healthy cities

Can video games like SimCity help smart city design? Dr Claire Boulange explains how planning can be playful to build healthy liveable cities for all.

AI to manage road infrastructure via Google Street View

Geospatial scientists have developed a new program to keep track of street sign locations by tapping into Google Street View images.

Making defence research partnerships work

Becoming an industry partner of choice requires several key ingredients, writes RMIT aerospace and defence research centre director Professor Michelle Gee.

RMIT leading researcher receives Order of Australia Honour

Professor Calum Drummond has been appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia (AO) in the Queen’s Birthday 2019 Honours List for his outstanding service to science and innovation.

Congratulations to Queen’s Birthday Honours recipients

Outstanding contributors from the RMIT community have been recognised with an Order of Australia in the 2019 Queen’s Birthday Honours List.

How stress can turn our bodies against us – and what we can do about it

Stress is an inevitable part of life, but what happens when it starts to negatively affect our health? And what exactly does chronic stress do to our bodies?

Bees can link symbols to numbers: study

We’ve learned bees can understand zero and do basic maths, and now a new study shows their tiny insect brains may be capable of connecting symbols to numbers.

From the burbs to the bay: GPS tracking reveals how litter travels

In a Victorian-first citizen science project, GPS-tracked bottles will be released in suburban waterways around Melbourne to reveal precisely how litter makes its way from our streets to our beaches.

Research confirms gut-brain connection in autism

People with autism often suffer from gut problems, but nobody has known why. Researchers have now discovered the same gene mutations – found both in the brain and the gut – could be the cause.

Report warns of uncertain future for registered training organisations

New research with industry calls for more consistent national policies on Australia's Vocational Education and Training (VET) sector.

Walk, listen and discover RMIT’s Indigenous history

An interactive app and audio-walk is revealing RMIT’s hidden history, inviting listeners to reimagine the City campus through Indigenous stories of land, river and sky.

Listening to community, looking forward together

RMIT researchers are supporting community-led efforts to change laws holding some Aboriginal Victorians back from employment.

Building next gen smart materials with the power of sound

Researchers have used sound waves to precisely manipulate atoms and molecules, accelerating the sustainable production of breakthrough smart materials.

New course to address domestic and family violence

RMIT has launched a new dual-focus qualification for community service workers who deal with domestic and family violence, amid growing demand from the sector.

Creek revitalisation program wins top innovation award

A collaborative project involving RMIT and Melbourne Water to renew and revitalise a Melbourne creek has been recognised with a national water innovation award.

RMIT 3D printing research wins peak manufacturing industry award

Industry-led research to 3D print steel tools has won the Endeavour Award for best technology application.

Report calls for Australian digital skills framework

New research finds most employers are unprepared for the digital future of work and risk being left behind.

Reimagining the world in playful ways

An RMIT researcher has developed a new way for citizens to explore and activate their cities using an augmented reality app where users scan urban codes to unlock fragments of animation and sound.

Unpacking the links: Chronic stress, fertility and the ‘hunger hormone’

Researchers have uncovered a new link between chronic stress and reproductive problems, in a pre-clinical study that shines the spotlight on a hunger-triggering hormone.

Women at work: Q&A with Iola Mathews

Iola Mathews has fought for women’s rights at work for decades. She spoke to RMIT’s Pauline Stanton about her new book and what we can learn from the past.

Device simplifies study of blood cells, opens new organ-on-chip possibilities.

A simple innovation the size of a grain of sand means we can now analyse cells and tiny particles as if they were inside the human body.

3D printing solutions for industry

Industry-led research at RMIT’s 3D printing facility is being recognised for giving students, staff and businesses the edge in a competitive landscape.

Blockchain researcher gets accounting student of the year nomination

Jana Schmitz’s forward-thinking approach to accounting has landed her in the running for a national accounting prize.

Sniffer dogs increase trauma and risks of overdose

New research has found that deploying drug detection dogs at music festivals and public places encourages users to adapt their drug consumption, often with harmful consequences.

The search for diversity in tech

Johanne Trippas learnt about more than just computer science during her PhD: she also came to appreciate how technology impacts lives and why women need to be a part of it.

Five things you should know about the brain in your gut

From moods to memory, the brain in our guts has a big impact on the brain in our heads.

Image sharing platform a critical new tool for planned burns

New cloud-based image platform FireLens will help fire agencies improve information sharing during planned burning and fire suppression events.

3D optical biopsies within reach thanks to advance in light field technology

Researchers have shown that existing optical fibre technology could be used to produce microscopic 3D images of tissue inside the body, paving the way towards 3D optical biopsies.

Study reveals winning tweet formula used by celebrities

Celebrity tweets that tell a story to fans are more likely to be shared than facts, introspection or angry outbursts, new study reveals.

Urgent action needed on aged care, work and family policies

Experts are calling for better working conditions in aged care, disability and child care sectors.

Student rocket team wins at national competition

RMIT's student-led rocket team have been notching up some big achievements, now they're officially among Australia's best.

Graduate research grants for smarter cars of the future

Three RMIT research projects have been awarded grants totalling over $780,000 to modernise the Australian automotive industry.

RMIT voted world’s best geospatial research institute

The university has just been named Geospatial Research Institute of the Year for 2019 by the Geospatial World Forum.

Big data, big opportunity: building an ethical future for health tech

Big data means big opportunity, but what are the ethical implications of tapping into health data as a public resource? And are we even collecting what we need?

Support services vital during forced mental health treatment

An evaluation of advocacy services provided to patients receiving mental health treatment against their will has found independent support is vital to their wellbeing.

Your Fulbright mission: stop nuclear weapons falling into the wrong hands

The stakes could not be higher, but this academic wouldn’t have it any other way.

The science of fighting brain injuries in babies

In their search for ways to prevent and heal brain injuries in babies, researchers are delving deep to unlock the secrets of the developing brain.

Residents left with the bill for flammable cladding crisis

Simon Lockrey, senior lecturer in industrial design, breaks down Victoria’s combustible cladding crisis, what it means for homeowners and what it will take to fix.

Ex-prisoners are more likely to become homeless but the reverse isn’t true

On the night the 2016 census was taken, more than 116,000 Australians were homeless. This was a 30% increase from the decade before.

Tracking sludge flow for better wastewater treatment and more biogas

A new way of tracking how sewage sludge flows during thermal treatment could help engineers design better wastewater treatment plants and boost production of biogas.

New labs advance materials, manufacturing and fabrication research

Two new research laboratories at RMIT University’s Melbourne City campus will focus on developing high-performance advanced materials and improving manufacturing and fabrication.

Research leaps forward in ERA rankings

RMIT University has been rated among the world's best in the latest Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA) rankings.

A breath of fresh air for vulnerable Australians

A new community-based project from RMIT aims to improve the wellbeing of elderly residents and school children through innovative indoor air quality monitoring.

How to be proactive at work, without leaving a trail of destruction

Proactivity in the workplace is a good thing, right? Well, not always.

An ‘Airbnb’ for energy could help homes share spare power

Could the future of energy lie in the sharing economy? Research shows energy sharing platforms may be key to supporting our transition to new tech and cleaner power, while delivering for consumers.

Google chooses RMIT to help shape the future

Google rates RMIT as a leading technology university with three prestigious research awards, more than any other Australian university.

Scientists don’t really get the female brain – and it’s a problem for women’s health

A major new review examines what we know (and don't know) about the unique aspects of the female brain, the lack of female-specific research, and why it’s a real issue for women's health.

Four ways sleep deprivation affects your brain and your body

Sleep is one of the unsung heroes of health, with serious consequences when we don’t get enough. Our experts explain what happens when you’re sleep deprived and share their tips to better sleep.

Universities join forces in advanced manufacturing

RMIT and the Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC) at the University of Sheffield have entered into a partnership that will see research collaboration and expertise exchange across advanced manufacturing and engineering.

RMIT technology takes pole at Grand Prix

An interactive exhibit at the 2019 Australia Formula 1 Grand Prix will showcase how RMIT is helping to shape the future through research and innovation.

AI experts say it's time to program guardians to protect ourselves

Computers are increasingly using our data to make decisions about us, but can we trust them?

A sustainable future is in our hands

From climate science to agricultural upcycling, and food packaging to urban farming, meet four researchers from around the world working towards a sustainable future.

Nearly half of tenants exit social housing early for the wrong reasons

A new RMIT report reveals that 43% of social housing tenancies end within 18 months, with indigenous, formerly homeless and young tenants at the greatest risk of losing their accommodation early.

Mondayitis: why traders sell their losses on the worst day of the week

Investors are more likely to sell their stock market losses on Monday mornings, despite it generally being the worst time to sell, according to new research.

RMIT women named superstars of STEM

Three RMIT researchers from STEM have been named among 60 Australian women recognised for outstanding contributions to their fields.

Centre to help grow Aerospace and Defence Industries

A newly expanded centre at RMIT University is set to support the transformational growth of Australia’s Defence and Aerospace industries.

Climate rewind: Scientists turn carbon dioxide back into coal

Researchers have used liquid metals to turn carbon dioxide back into solid coal, in a world-first breakthrough that could transform our approach to carbon capture and storage.

3D printed tools cut titanium, win top innovation prize

High strength cutting tools can now be 3D printed, potentially saving time and money for aerospace and Defence manufacturers.

Young engineers build ride-on drone

RMIT aerospace engineers are building the first Australian single pilot hovercraft for recreational flight.

Industry 4.0 comes to Defence

Bold new research shows how sensors and artificial intelligence can revolutionise the way Defence technology is managed.

Wearable tech lends an ear to lonely elderly

New technology that tracks conversation and can be worn as a brooch is set to improve quality of life for elderly Australians at risk of loneliness.

Water drone nominated for Airshow innovation prize

A waterproof drone that can land on sea has been nominated for a top innovation prize.

Study reveals economic and health benefits of denser suburbs

Denser and more walkable suburban developments keep chronic diseases at bay and deliver lifetime economic and health gains of $4,500 for every resident, new research shows.

Australian-first research investigates perpetration of image-based sexual abuse

One in 10 people have committed image-based sexual abuse, according to the first comprehensive research into the issue in Australia.

How could degrowth tackle environmental issues and social inequities?

Successful economies are characterised by growth, so how can “degrowth” in our cities and housing possibly be good for us? Urban academic Anitra Nelson explains.

Blazing a trail for innovation

RMIT’s Professor Anne-Laure Mention looks beyond theories to understand the practice of incorporating innovation and knowledge transfer, as it unfolds in business and wider society.

Six ways to keep Melbourne moving at 8 million

More people living in Melbourne means more trips across our transport network. RMIT experts share their views on how to plan for this pressure and keep our city moving.

Smart filters: Next gen materials for modern gas masks

Gas masks have barely changed in over 100 years but with the help of some computational wizardry, next gen smart materials are bringing the outdated technology into the 21st century.

Bees have brains for basic maths: study

Researchers have found bees can do basic mathematics, in a discovery that expands our understanding of the relationship between brain size and brain power.

Drunk history: Bottle shops, urban life and public order

From colonial times to our suburban spread, the humble bottle shop has been surprisingly central in urban attempts to create order and contain violence - but it’s a complicated history.

Banks get royal slap on the wrist

Hayne's failure to tackle bank structures means problem hasn't gone away.

Sleep apnoea creates gaps in life memories: study

People with sleep apnoea struggle to remember details of memories from their own lives, potentially making them vulnerable to depression, new research has shown.

Harnessing light for a solar-powered chemical industry

New technology that harnesses sunlight to drive chemical reactions is paving the way for a more sustainable chemical manufacturing industry, one of the globe’s biggest energy users.

Atari master: New AI smashes Google DeepMind in video game challenge

A new breed of algorithms has mastered Atari video games 10 times faster than state-of-the-art AI, with a breakthrough approach to problem solving.

Inactive Aussie kids en route to becoming a backseat generation

Australian kids are at risk of becoming a backseat generation with more than a third of primary schoolchildren not walking or riding to school despite living nearby, new research shows.

Helping machines speak our language

Researchers have developed technology to detect emotions in human speech, enabling more natural conversations with robots.

Recycling biosolids to make sustainable bricks

How can you recycle the world’s stockpiles of treated sewage sludge and boost sustainability in the construction industry, all at the same time? Turn those biosolids into bricks.

Sensors take headache out of summer beach parking

Researchers are installing sensors throughout the summer hotspot of Rye to monitor traffic, parking, crowd numbers and even toilet usage to better manage holiday crowds.

Ships that repair themselves best line of defence

Researchers have developed spray-on technology for repairing navy ships damaged by fire or missile attack.

Machine learning for a smarter world: Q&A with Fabio Zambetta

Computer scientist and tech innovator Fabio Zambetta is using AI to make machines, and the tasks they carry out for us, feel more natural.

Saving sight: using AI to diagnose diabetic eye disease

Researchers have used artificial intelligence to support the instant diagnosis of one of the top causes of blindness, diabetes-related eye disease, in its earliest stages.

Top optics award for pioneering RMIT physicist

World-leading RMIT University physicist Distinguished Professor Min Gu has been awarded a top international prize, named in honour of the Nobel-winning inventor of holography, Dennis Gabor.

Study reveals murder rates during Nazi genocide

New research shows we’ve underestimated the rate of killing during the Holocaust, and why it matters.

Engineering high impact AI solutions

A leading RMIT researcher has been recognised for bringing high impact engineering solutions to the field of Artificial Intelligence.

Study unlocks full potential of ‘supermaterial’ graphene

New research reveals why the “supermaterial” graphene has not transformed electronics as promised, and shows how to double its performance and finally harness its extraordinary potential.

Researchers tackle HIV and brain injury with NHMRC funding success

Three RMIT researchers have been awarded a total of $2.5 million in funding for projects investigating brain damage in infants and new treatments for managing HIV.

Small habitats crucial to species survival: study

Local patches of bushland play a much bigger role in conserving biodiversity and supporting the survival of endangered species than previously thought, according to new research.

RMIT and Ecole Centrale de Lyon awarded EU funding for global joint PhD program

A prestigious PhD program for nanotechnology research delivered by Ecole Centrale de Lyon in France and RMIT University in Australia has been awarded €1.6M in European funding.

Could child labour be a ‘necessary evil’ while extreme poverty persists?

New research highlighting the dangers of unsafe work for children also shows that child labour, in safer conditions, may help some to survive extreme poverty.

Four in ten think women lie about being victims of sexual assault

Four in ten Australians (42%) think sexual assault accusations are a way of getting back at men, according to the fourth National Community Attitudes Survey (NCAS) on violence against women.

Model city: new software predicts infrastructure lifecycle

Software developed by RMIT researchers is being used to help plan for the lifecycle and maintenance costs of assets including buildings, bridges and stormwater drainage.

Brisbane’s public transport access worst in the country: report

A new report measuring Brisbane’s liveability progress has found its residents have the worst access to public transport in Australia.

RMIT researcher named as MIT top ten young innovator

Early career researcher Wenyue Zou has been named among 10 top innovators under 35 by MIT Technology Review for her work developing wearable UV sensors.

Cancer killer: uncovering the health benefits of Vietnam’s gấc fruit

RMIT researcher Dr Tien Huynh has travelled across south-east Asia to learn about the exceptional health benefits of the Vietnamese gac fruit and its ability to destroy cancer cells.

Solution for next generation nanochips comes out of thin air

The secret ingredient for the next generation of more powerful electronics could be air, according to new research.

Social housing in Australia must triple to meet demand: report

Australia needs to triple the amount of social housing built over the next 20 years if it is to meet future demands, a new study has found.

Drones can now flap wings, ride wind currents like birds

The next generation of unmanned drones will act more like birds than machines, thanks to new research.

Urban greening installation improves wellbeing

A new installation featuring native plants and a wildlife soundscape is on display at RMIT, exploring the relationship between urban greening and wellbeing.

History blooms with commemorative artwork

A wreath of wearable enamel brooches is on display at Melbourne’s Shrine of Remembrance in a creative tribute to the stories of the first world war.

Algorithms, AI and robots: architecture's new frontier

Poised at the intersection of design and technology, architect Alisa Andrasek is using algorithmic design and robotic construction to create sweeping forms and spaces fit for the future.

Tech breakthrough to allow 100-times-faster internet

Groundbreaking new technology allows super-fast internet by harnessing twisted light beams to carry more data and process it faster.

Computers use social media data to predict crime

Algorithms can now predict the time and place of various crimes by analysing location-based data from social media users.

RMIT researchers win prestigious 2018 Victoria Fellowship

RMIT researchers Sumeet Walia and Flora Salim have been awarded Victoria Fellowships for their outstanding work in nanotechnology and data science respectively.

Grey matters: why your brain needs sleep

Ahead of this week’s Sleep and Brain Health Symposium, Dr Melinda Jackson from RMIT’s School of Health and Biomedical Sciences shares the ugly truth about quality sleep and a healthy brain.

Better GPS opens new opportunities for industry

Leading geospatial scientists say Australian industries are yet to fully tap the potential of rapidly improving Global Positioning System (GPS) technology.

The value of esports: a partnership between Essendon Football Club and RMIT

The rapidly growing esports industry is set to be the subject of a new study, providing a unique insight into the networked media sports industry.

New centre to help industry make sense of data

A new centre will use cutting edge research to help partner organisations turn data into knowledge.

Immune control: Treating brain injury with an on/off switch

Australian researchers have developed groundbreaking technology for controlling the body’s own immune response to brain damage, in an advance that could prove crucial in treating brain injuries.

It just got easier to find your dream

You can now find your dream job faster thanks to SEEK search engine improvements developed in a major industry collaboration.

The race to build a quantum computer

Tasks that take billions of years done in just minutes. That’s the quantum revolution coming to computing and it’s set to transform our whole society.

Thermal imaging improves diabetes related foot ulcer assessment

Thermal imaging can better predict a diabetes related foot ulcer’s size and the healing trajectory than conventional methods, Melbourne-led research has found.

Diagnostic advance: gas-sensing capsule set to hit market by 2022

An electronic capsule that measures gases in the gut to revolutionise the diagnosis of gut disorders could be available within four years, following an agreement between RMIT and Atmo Biosciences.

Sun exposure gets personal with wearable UV sensors

Managing vitamin absorption and avoiding sun damage could soon be as simple as slipping on a bracelet thanks to new personalised sensors.

Quick and not-so-dirty: a rapid nano-filter for clean water

Researchers have designed a rapid nano-filter that can clean dirty water over 100 times faster than current technology.

Senate Inquiry first step towards addressing hidden financial abuse

RMIT’s Supriya Singh presents to the Senate Inquiry on dowry abuse in Australia, throwing light on the devastating effects of unseen economic abuse and the need to criminalise it.

Global study on the impact of social media for citizen engagement

RMIT and Oslo Metropolitan University researchers are studying the use of social media to support citizen participation in local government in a study funded by The Research Council of Norway.

Study highlights roundabout risk for older drivers

Newly published research shows why so many older drivers crash at roundabouts and what can be done to improve safety.

How liveable is Melbourne really? New report settles the score

A new report measuring Melbourne’s liveability progress calls for a redistribution of employment across the city to reduce commute times, ease traffic congestion and encourage more physical activity.

Pushing ‘print’ on large-scale piezoelectric materials

The production of motion sensing devices in mobile phones could become cheaper and more energy-efficient through pioneering work on piezoelectrics by researchers at RMIT.

Blockchain to boost charity donations

Charities and philanthropic organisations are investigating the potential of blockchain technology to solve their trust problem.

Bloody marvels: How micro devices are delivering big blood results

From rapid diagnosis of heart attacks to screening bleeding disorders, tiny devices designed to handle the complexities of blood could be the future of pathology.

Report: affordability driving Australia’s digital divide

A new report from RMIT University and Telstra shows Australians are spending more time online than ever before, with affordability the biggest barrier for those being left behind.

Medical device technologies win major innovation awards

Pioneering medical technologies developed at RMIT University have won top spots in the Johnson & Johnson Innovation, JLABS "Victorian QuickFire Challenge: Driving Device Innovation".

Smart system makes humans and machines better flight partners

RMIT research is helping machines work better with pilots and air traffic controllers.

The gut-brain connection: a new frontier for autism research

Researchers are discovering new connections between the brain and gut that could make a difference to the daily life of children with autism and their families.

Forging ahead in academic rankings

RMIT continues to advance on the global stage with further gains made in the 2018 Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU).

Coming out at work is complex and an ongoing dilemma, research finds

Less than a third of LGBTIQ+ employees are out to all their colleagues and this significantly compromises their wellbeing and work performance, new research has found.

Pioneering health research awarded NHMRC fellowship and funding

RMIT researchers working to harness the power of nanotechnology to personalise medicine and to develop new technology for analysing blood clots have been awarded over $1.4 million in NHRMC funding.

Third time’s the charm: how to overcome your public speaking fears

Scared of giving a speech? Dread the idea of a job interview? Avatars and virtual reality could be the key to overcoming public speaking fears, according to an RMIT researcher.

Seven myths about homelessness busted

As experts and policymakers gather for Homelessness Week, we take a closer look at common myths and misconceptions about some of our most vulnerable citizens.

Edukate: Dr Kate Fox nominated for leadership award

Dr Kate Fox knows exactly why she gets up every morning. The Senior Lecturer comes to work at RMIT’s School of Engineering every day to make a difference for children like her son Jake.

New Future Fellows boost RMIT research

New ARC Future Fellowships awarded to RMIT researchers will support landmark projects on foetal brain development, improving human rights and cutting-edge photonics.

Gas sensing gut pill beats breath test diagnosis

New trials of a breakthrough swallowable sensor have revealed the device is 3,000 times more accurate than current technology used to diagnose many gut disorders.

Sensor technology to improve safety and health in aged care

Flexible sensors developed at RMIT will be integrated into new health monitoring technology to improve aged care, in a project supported through a $1.7 million Federal Government grant.

Baby, let’s keep in touch

New mums who keep in touch with their workplace while on maternity leave are more hireable and less likely to experience unconscious bias, research shows.

How design and technology is transforming healthcare: Insights from global experts

Experts across the health ecosystem have shared their insights on the way healthcare is being impacted in a digitally connected world at a recent RMIT health innovation symposium in Europe.

New partnership to help prevent aquatic pollution

A new $5 million partnership between RMIT University and Melbourne Water will help combat pollution in Australia’s waterways and bays.

Sydney liveability scorecard reveals urban wins and fails

A new report measuring Sydney’s liveability progress finds the city is struggling to meet its public transport targets, but other Australian capitals should aim to replicate its ambitious policies.

New technology for early detection of Type 1 diabetes

Researchers are developing early detection technology for Type 1 diabetes that can accurately predict if a child is at risk of the chronic disease.

RMIT leading researcher wins national lifetime award

Professor Calum Drummond has been awarded the prestigious Ian Wark Medal and Lecture for outstanding advances in chemistry and materials science research, and contributions to Australia's prosperity.

Snooze mobiles: how vibrations in cars make drivers sleepy

New research has found the natural vibrations of cars make people sleepier, affecting concentration and alertness levels just 15 minutes after drivers get behind the wheel.

Laser-made aircraft parts

Researchers are 3D printing aircraft parts using new laser technology that could transform industry.

Research on law reform protects vulnerable workers

Workers’ rights have been boosted with regulation of the labour hire sector in Victoria, thanks to research undertaken by an RMIT academic in partnership with the State Government.

Interactive storytelling machine captivates audiences

On display in Melbourne this June as part of the Glen Eira Storytelling Festival, an innovative digital installation turns audiences into artists.

Dual accolades for Madhu Bhaskaran

Associate Professor Madhu Bhaskaran's work in the field of flexible electronics has been recognised with two significant honours.

Honeybees zero in on nothing

Scientists have discovered honeybees can understand the concept of zero, putting them in an elite club of clever animals that can grasp the abstract mathematical notion of nothing.

Cyber safety in remote Aboriginal communities: report

RMIT University has released the key findings from a new report commissioned by Telstra to better understand the barriers to digital inclusion for remote Indigenous Australians.

Beyond colour in cellular microscopy

A new microscopy technique developed at RMIT allows researchers to see more of what’s happening inside cells.

One in three Australian kids exposed to disadvantage, new research reveals

Almost a third of Australian children experience some form of disadvantage that can have a lasting impact on their development, a new study of more than 5,000 children released today has found.

Back to the future as researchers invent real-life flux capacitor

The "Back to the Future" time machine runs on an imaginary flux capacitor but could the movie invention become reality?

Cell chat: Attacking disease by learning the language of cells

Breakthrough lab-on-a-chip technology that reveals how human cells communicate could lead to new treatments for cancer and autoimmune disorders.

Supported saving boosts financial wellbeing: report

A new RMIT report confirms actively saving is one of the most important influences on financial wellbeing, benefitting not only individuals but their households, communities and the broader economy.

Dry zones and other temperance hangovers

Anti-alcohol measures like dry zones are not just a part of history: their legacy continues to feed into our approach to urban planning today.

Designing in response to Indigenous sovereignty

An interactive Wiradjuri-RMIT project is among the winners in the social impact category at the 2018 Good Design Awards.

New report settles the score on Perth’s liveability

A new report measuring Perth’s liveability progress has found that despite improvements, the city is struggling to meet its targets for policy implementation.

New plant app a force of nature at international internet awards

A new virtual greening app, based on research from RMIT and the University of Melbourne, has won both the People’s Voice and the Judge's Webby Award – the "internet’s highest honour".

Melbourne needs second metro, experts warn

Urban researchers are calling for a second Melbourne Metro Rail, warning the current project won’t meet the expected capacity demand unless the city plans for more rail line infrastructure.

Connecting culture, tradition and fashion in Vietnam

An immersive journey to the mountains of northern Vietnam brought new insights into the vibrant traditional fashion of ethnic minority groups.

RMIT researchers to drive transformations in food, energy and health

RMIT University is part of three major new Cooperative Research Centres, that are investing more than $420 million to tackle the critical challenges of food waste, future fuels and digital health.

Design veteran set to lead landscape architecture at RMIT

Associate Professor Katrina Simon has been announced as RMIT’s new Associate Dean of Landscape Architecture, in the School of Architecture and Urban Design.

Capturing the essence of Queen Vic Market

The smell of fish, the gleam of fresh vegetables, the chill outside the sheds… research shows the heart and soul of Melbourne’s iconic Queen Victoria Market is not in its bricks and mortar.

Chaos & Order: 120 years of collecting at RMIT

For the first time in 120 years RMIT is presenting a survey exhibition sourced entirely from its permanent art collection, more than half of which has never been shared with the public before.

New NanoZymes use light to kill bacteria

Researchers from RMIT University have developed a new artificial enzyme that uses light to kill bacteria.

European funding award to create network of 'edible cities'

RMIT is set to help develop of a global network of cities focused on green infrastructure and food production solutions after being named a partner on a €11.5 million European research project.

RMIT report sheds light on energy poverty in Barcelona

More than 10% of Barcelona's population experiences energy poverty according to RMIT research commissioned by Barcelona City Council.

Citizen scientists take heatwaves into their own hands

RMIT researchers are working with citizen scientists in Melbourne to collect local climate data that will enable communities to plan for extreme heat.

Golden touch: next-gen optical disk to solve data storage challenge

Scientists from Australia and China have drawn on the durable power of gold to demonstrate a new type of high-capacity optical disk that can hold data securely for more than 600 years.

Mental Health Tribunal failing to protect rights: study

The body charged with protecting the rights of mentally ill Victorians is failing to properly and consistently apply the law, research has found.

Researchers bring the bling to improve implants

In a world first, Australian researchers have harnessed the power of diamonds in a breakthrough that could radically improve the way human bodies accept biomedical implants.

RMIT and United Nations University collaborate for urban futures

RMIT University and United Nations University are collaborating on smart urban innovation and technology-enabled user engagement projects.

All power to the proton: researchers make battery breakthrough

Researchers have demonstrated for the first time a working rechargeable “proton battery” that could re-wire how we power our homes, vehicles and devices.

Digital artwork captures community life

An interactive sculpture is connecting residents with the rhythms of community life and creating a vibrant cultural centre in a developing suburb in Melbourne’s south-east.

Boosting confidence doesn’t help women at work: study

Assertiveness is linked to professional success, so ambitious women should work on building their confidence, right? Wrong, according to new research.

Design evolution: building a radically new kind of hearing aid

Developing the world’s first modular hearing aid took 130 prototypes but for the researcher behind the revolutionary design, each miniscule change was critical.

Poison patches: study reveals high levels of lead in veggie gardens

A new study led by RMIT University shows one-in-five tested backyard veggie patches are contaminated with high levels of lead, exceeding Australian safety guidelines.

Clever coating opens door to smart windows

Researchers from RMIT University have developed a new ultra-thin coating that responds to heat and cold, opening the door to “smart windows”.

RMIT researcher heads to US in battle against nukes

How the world can avoid nuclear doomsday while our weapons are getting more deadly will be the focus of 2018 Fulbright Scholarship winner Dr Aiden Warren.escription from page properties to display here.

Spare parts from small parts: novel scaffolds to grow muscle

RMIT biomedical engineers have successfully produced a 3D material that mimics nature to transform cells into muscle.

3D printed clip-on turns smartphone into fully operational microscope

Researchers have developed a 3D printable “clip-on” that allows anyone – from scientists to the scientifically curious – to turn their smartphone into a fully functional microscope.

Breaking through: research in the real world

How do we get new technology out of the lab into the community, and pull new knowledge out of academic papers and into policy?

Forget predictive text – predictive digital assistants are coming

A predictive digital assistant that helps you complete complex daily tasks could soon be in your hands, thanks to a new collaboration between RMIT University and Microsoft.

Electric career in electrical engineering honoured with major medal

Distinguished Professor Xinghuo Yu has been honoured for his major contribution to electrical engineering with the 2018 MA Sargent Medal.

Innovative 3D printed installation brings the Antarctic to Melbourne

A collaboration between two RMIT researchers, the unique cross-disciplinary installation is on display as part of the National Gallery of Victoria’s free Triennial EXTRA program.

Swallowable sensors reveal mysteries of human gut health

Findings from the first human trials of a breakthrough gas-sensing swallowable capsule could revolutionise the way that gut disorders and diseases are prevented and diagnosed.

Digital health in focus at RMIT Europe

RMIT has strengthened its commitment to health research and innovation by appointing healthcare innovator Susan Feitoza to head up its digital health division at RMIT Europe in Barcelona.

Research gets redefined in one of Barcelona's hottest barrios

Innovation, knowledge sharing and driven transformation is fuelling the microclimate in Barcelona's 22@ zone, the fast-growing hotspot in the barrio (neighbourhood) of Poblenou.

Liquid metal breakthrough ushers new wave of electronics

RMIT researchers have used liquid metal to create two-dimensional materials no thicker than a few atoms that have never before been seen in nature.

RMIT research examines the way culture and politics impact housing design regulations

RMIT PhD candidate Alexandra Gower has recently been in London and Barcelona to study the impact of culture and politics on regulations for high-density housing design.

New partnership in health innovation connects Australia and Spain

Innovative therapy to assist with brain injury rehabilitation is extending to Spain as part of a new agreement between RMIT and one of the country’s largest teaching hospitals.

RMIT Europe moves to Barcelona’s innovation district

RMIT has moved its European operations to the city’s innovation and technology district – a shift that signals the University's strong commitment to the City of Barcelona and its presence in Europe.

Sugar on the brain: using seaweed sugar to heal brain injuries

Australian researchers have successfully harnessed the healing power of seaweed to develop a new technique that can repair damaged brain tissue.

RMIT awarded funding for nanotechnology research in Europe

RMIT is part of a multi-institution consortium awarded a prestigious European Union Horizon 2020 (H2020) research and innovation grant worth €2M and focused on nanotechnology development.

Cultivation of a food sharing culture in Barcelona

RMIT and Trinity College Dublin researcher Dr Ferne Edwards has spent the past few months harvesting food, distributing organic goods and joining strangers around communal dinner tables.

European forum examines the future of drones in design and construction

Drones and the digital transformation of the built environment were in focus at a recent forum for industry and researchers at RMIT's European hub in Barcelona.

Urban futures specialist joins RMIT Europe

RMIT's European hub has welcomed Gareth Macnaughton, a European innovation and research manager, to its urban futures innovation program.

RMIT research to unlock ’game-changing’ tech for Defence

Six new projects will help enhance Australia’s defence and national security, supported by more than $590,000 in Federal Government funding.

RMIT leads the conversation on climate change and the future of cities

RMIT is teaming up with industry in Europe to plan for the impacts of climate change on cities, such as droughts and flooding, and to take stock of what city leaders around the world are doing.

World’s thinnest hologram paves path to new 3D world

An Australian-Chinese research team has created the world’s thinnest hologram, paving the way towards the integration of 3D holography into everyday electronics like smart phones, computers and TVs.

Spotlight on RMIT's practice-based research program in Europe

RMIT's practice-based PhD research program, which focuses on research in the medium of design practice itself, is in its tenth year of success in Europe.

RMIT co-chairs global network for gender equality in the media

Gender equality in and through the media is the focus of a UNESCO-supported global collaboration between RMIT University and eighteen other universities.

Bio-inspired energy storage: a new light for solar power

Inspired by an American fern, researchers have developed a groundbreaking prototype that could be the answer to the storage challenge still holding solar back as a total energy solution.

RMIT report sheds light on energy poverty in Barcelona

More than 10% of Barcelona's population experiences energy poverty according to RMIT research commissioned by Barcelona City Council.

RMIT and Luceda Photonics launch new photonics toolset

RMIT University, partnering with Luceda Photonics, has launched a comprehensive toolset of electromagnetic simulators for photonic devices, called REME.

Playgroups offer vital support for mothers and benefits for community

Community playgroups have significant social and economic benefits not just for children but also for their parents, particularly mothers, according to new research.