Research excellence

We're driven to take unique approaches to the most complex research problems across defence and security.

UNSW Canberra Space team conducting heat cycle testing of the engineering model of the M2 satelite at Mount Stromlo.Clint Therakam

Our research

We have a diverse research community who are passionate about tackling complex 21st-century challenges — from artificial intelligence and capability systems to cyber security and war studies. Discover how we generate critical breakthroughs, shed light on social and ethical challenges, and forge the path for future discoveries in defence capabilities. 

Research areas

Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Our world-class researchers are drawn from a range of diverse fields. Together, we excel in applying leading-edge technology to solve applied AI problems.

With a human-centred focus that considers ethical, social and legal implications, see how we’re building the capacity to deliver advanced and targeted responses to working and living with AI. 

Business

We deliver high-quality business research, relevant to a range of audiences including government, public services and industry.  

With work spanning the areas of governance, strategic decision-making, public sector management and diversity, explore how our research focuses on the needs of today’s modern businesses. 

Capability systems

Our programs bring together researchers from various but complementary disciplinary backgrounds. In complex environments, we address knowledge gaps to assist Defence, government and industry in developing and applying more effective solutions throughout the entire asset life cycle. 

Cyber

We have an outstanding record in discovery-driven cyber solutions. From harnessing the potential of AI and identifying cyber vulnerabilities to exploring how human factors impact organisational security, we’re building cyber capability for the future.

Engineering

Driven by a desire to build a healthier, more sustainable future, we create technological engineering solutions with local impact and global significance.

From cyber security and AI to renewable energy and resilient infrastructure, we’re developing innovative solutions to the biggest issues facing our planet. 

International security

Our research addresses some of the most pressing concerns affecting global security. From protecting our planet’s environment and its most vulnerable occupants to ensuring we’re well equipped to face the challenges of the future, our research is helping to secure our world.

Security & defence

Our world today has an ever-increasing range of security challenges. On top of traditional security concerns, human, societal, and economic security issues have added considerable complexity to our understanding of security and stability. Our research develops awareness into the local and global dimensions of security and defence.

Science

Driven by world-leading academics pushing the boundaries of knowledge in sustainability, climate change and renewable energy, our researchers strive to make the world a better place. From heatwave modelling to developing low-cost, low-energy water purification, our scientists create innovative solutions to the biggest issues facing our planet.

Space

Our space research focuses on providing tangible solutions to our needs on Earth. It draws from and informs our satellite missions. We’re also researching the ethical challenges global advances in space might create and how we might solve these potential problems.

War studies

Our researchers address a broad spectrum of war studies. From the history of armed conflict to international ethics, information warfare and the future of military operations, we’re leading a national conversation in this field.

Our research facilities

UNSW Canberra is recognised as a global leader in research and innovation. Whether you’re a university researcher or one of our many collaborators and partners, we have access to the facilities and resources you need to accelerate your research. 

PhD opportunities

Explore our wide range of PhD study opportunities.

Postgraduate research

We deliver an unparalleled postgraduate research environment specifically designed to help candidates thrive in their chosen field of research.

Explore our range of postgraduate research degrees to kick-start your research journey with UNSW Canberra.  

Scholarships and funding

Research candidates with exceptional potential who plan to undertake a higher degree by research can apply for scholarships that provide a range of benefits and financial support such as an annual stipend, tuition fees and student health cover.