DST is seeking to build a larger capability in the wearable assistive technology research space to help maximise the utility and adoption of this technology, through a partnership with an Australian university. HPRnet was established in 2016 through Army funding to help address its top Human Performance research requirements and is currently supporting a range of studies with universities from across Australia. As part of HPRnet, this project will provide an opportunity to further engage with the HPRnet community of researchers focused on delivering Human Performance outcomes for the ADF.
Partnership opportunity
DST is seeking Expressions of Interest (EOI) for innovative proposals of future focussed research that can meaningfully address one or more of the ADF’s assistive technologies priorities. The invitation to submit against the EOI is limited to Australian universities who are signatories of the Defence Science Partnering (DSP) Deed.
Based on a potential investment of up to $600k, proposers will be asked to detail:
- How funds would be allocated (PhD, Post Doc, Undergraduate, industry engagement, capital, consumables, etc.) in order to deliver the study’s ADF’s focused outcomes over a three year timeframe
- A commitment to build a true partnership through the appointment of an academic chair (0.1FTE) to the HPRnet and the investment of university resources to maximise outcomes for Defence.
The preferred university partner will have strong biomechanics expertise and facilities to measure the kinetics and kinematics of human gait along with cardiorespiratory responses, muscle activity and interface pressure distribution. Engineering expertise within the university (or through a university-to-university / university-to-industry collaboration) is also required in order to translate human factors data into the design optimisation of the wearable assistive technologies.
There is an expectation that the program will lead to the establishment of a substantial national capability in wearable assistive technologies that provides sustained benefit to Defence and other organisations (emergency services, law enforcement agencies and the private sector) over the long term. It is expected that both parties will benefit greatly from extant knowledge, expertise and reach-back capacity offered by the other in a true collaborative relationship.
How to apply
The opportunity is only available to Australian universities who are signatories of the Defence Science Partnering (DSP) Deed.
Funding limit is up to a total of $600,000 over a period of up to three years. Budgeting should be undertaken according to costing provisions in the DSP using Research Rate 2. Proposals should not only demonstrate technical expertise and a scientifically sound approach but should also demonstrate a clear advantage to Defence outcomes and a commitment to true partnership.
Proposals must be submitted by no later than 04:30pm (ACST) on 8th May 2019.
