NTL PhD Students Showcase Innovative Research at Macquarie HDR Conference 2025

On June 26, 2025, several of our talented PhD students from the Nanotech Laboratory (NTL) took the spotlight at the Macquarie University Higher Degree Research (HDR) Conference, presenting their cutting-edge work to peers, academics, and industry experts. The event served as a vibrant platform for research exchange, and our team proudly represented NTL’s contributions to the fields of nanotechnology, sensors, and biomaterials.

Reza, a third-year PhD candidate, presented a poster on his advanced research into “Highly Selective Hydrogen Sensing via Optimized Pd-SnO₂ Thin Films: An Integrated Experimental and Computational Insight.” His work impressed attendees with its potential for safer, more efficient hydrogen sensing—crucial in emerging energy technologies.

Sara, also in her third year and enrolled in a Cotutelle program, presented her interdisciplinary project titled “Biomimetic Membrane and Scaffold Systems for Guided Tissue & Bone Regeneration.” Her research bridges materials science and biomedical engineering, aiming to develop next-generation materials that mimic natural tissue for regenerative applications.

Kosta, a second-year PhD student, delivered a compelling oral presentation on “Increasing the Response Time of ZnO Nanoparticle-Based UV Sensors by Treating Them Using PMMA.” His talk explored a novel approach to improving the functionality of UV sensors—key for wearable and environmental monitoring technologies—by incorporating surface treatment strategies to enhance performance.

Harun, a first-year PhD student, showcased a poster titled “Advanced Sensing Technologies for Real-Time Beehive Health Monitoring.” His work explores novel sensor systems designed to track the internal conditions of beehives, contributing to global efforts in pollinator conservation and smart agriculture.

Nour, also a first-year PhD student, shared her exciting work through a poster titled “Hybrid Strategy for Enhanced Mechanical Stability and Scalable Fabrication of Metal Oxide Films.” Her research focuses on improving the durability and processability of thin films—an important step toward their real-world application in flexible electronics and sensors.

Luke, a first-year PhD student, presented a poster on “Highly Porous Sensing Films for the Low-Temperature Detection of Ethylene.” His project addresses the need for efficient gas sensors capable of detecting ethylene at low temperatures, with promising implications for agricultural and environmental monitoring.

Alireza, also in his first year, presented a promising poster on “High-Sensitivity Piezocapacitive Sensors Using CNF/PEDOT:PSS-Reinforced Electrospun PAN Nanofibers.” His work contributes to the development of flexible and ultra-sensitive pressure sensors, with applications in healthcare monitoring and smart wearable systems.

The HDR Conference was an inspiring event filled with discussion, collaboration, and new ideas. We are incredibly proud of our students for their excellent presentations and for representing NTL with such energy and professionalism. Their work reflects the depth, innovation, and collaborative spirit of our lab, and we can’t wait to see what they achieve next.

Congratulations to all for an outstanding presence at HDR 2025!