AJIF Grant Program 2024 were awarded to:

CSIRO and National Institute for Materials Science (NIMS)

Exploring Algae-Based Circular Economy Opportunities for Biological Mine Water Treatment

Dr. Valentina Hurtado-McCormick, Dr Xiao Deng, Dr Anna Kaksonen, Dr Ka Yu Cheng, Dr Falko Mathes, Ms Courtney De Mascio, and Mr Jake Ashton - CSIRO

This project will explore the use of algae to support the growth of sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB) and sulfate-reduction-based biological mine water treatment. Biological sulfate reduction requires carbon and electron donors, which can be provided as organic substances produced through photosynthesis and released into the water during algal growth and cell lysis. The project will also explore the synergistic relationships between algae and SRB for mine water treatment. If proven feasible, algae grown in mine water could provide a cost-effective, local substrate to facilitate sulphate removal and metal recovery from mine water and reduce the reliance on chemicals. The requested salary support will be allocated to CSIRO resources in accordance with CSIRO Work Classification Standards. Overhead costs will cover essential administrative support, utilities, and insurance to sustain the research environment at NIMS and CSIRO.

Total AJIF funds awarded: AUD 200,000

University of Sydney

Conversion of CO₂ into Methanol via an Innovative Photocatalytic and Electrocatalytic Process for Sustainable Energy Applications

Prof. Catherine Stampfl and Dr. Marco Fronzi - University of Sydney, Prof. Paolo Mele - Shibaura Institute of Technology, Assistant Professor Fabio Lisi - University of Tokyo, and Dr. Shivani Sathish - OIST Innovation Incubator

This project represents a significant step forward in addressing global challenges related to CO2 emissions and sustainable energy. By combining machine learning, quantum mechanical insights, and innovative material engineering, the research aims to achieve a paradigm shift in CO2 utilization. We have a team ready to begin work and strongly require the main cost of a full-time research associate to drive it all forward. Success of this project will also form a platform to enable future grant applications and collaborative projects between Australia and Japan.  

Total AJIF funds awarded: AUD 100,000