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Our areas of research

Across all our research areas, we aim to strike a balance between demand-driven research, which solves defined problems for industry and society, and researcher-driven research, which is characterised by a desire to push the limits of understanding.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander knowledge

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander knowledge

Across our research, we collaborate with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders and communities to ensure the strategies we develop are culturally appropriate and underpinned by Indigenous knowledge, practice and perspective.

Agriculture and environment

Agriculture and environment

Finding ways to address environmental challenges, conserve biodiversity and secure the future of sustainable, economical and ethical food production.

Biomedical and clinical science

Biomedical and clinical science

Our scientists are advancing new treatments for major chronic diseases including Alzheimer’s disease, inflammatory disorders, heart disease, traumatic brain injury and cancer.

Business, society and community

Business, society and community

Our research is informing business and government, across human rights, housing, economic growth and prosperity nationally and internationally.

Chemical science

Chemical science

With links to physics, biology and geology, chemical science is driving major advances in medicine, information technology and materials science.

Defence

Defence

Australia’s defence and security priorities are the focus of Curtin’s defence-related research in asset sustainment, geopolitical security, electronic warfare and human performance.

Digital transformation

Digital transformation

Growing advances in digital technologies and data analytics are transforming the nature of business, societal relations and the human experience.

Energy transition

Energy transition

With clean energy uptake accelerating, what are the future energy technologies to look for?

Health data to knowledge

Health data to knowledge

Data collected and linked from a range of care settings is giving health practitioners a clearer picture of population health, and the evidence base they need to provide effective and tailored treatment options.

Healthy communities

Healthy communities

The Curtin enAble Institute is helping people lead independent and healthier lives in their communities and their homes.

Resources, mining and minerals

Resources, mining and minerals

From exploration and environmental assessment to decommissioning and restoration, Curtin has an exceptional track record of research across the spectrum of resources activities.

Space

Space

We’re engineering and operating some of the world’s most advanced radio astronomy technologies, uncovering the origins of the Solar System and exploring the expanses of space.

Structural engineering and monitoring

Structural engineering and monitoring

Structural degradation and corrosion cost the Australian economy more than $30 billion each year, yet much of the damage to materials can be avoided through efficient monitoring and prevention technologies.

Sustainable development

Sustainable development

We’re developing new materials, new practices and new policies that will reduce our planetary footprint, while improving quality of life for all.