Two outstanding University of Wollongong (UOW) researchers, Professor Lisa Kervin and Dr Nana Wang, have secured highly coveted Australian Research Council (ARC) Future Fellowships.
Professor Kervin, director of Early Start at UOW, received nearly $1.2 million over four years for her innovative research on intergenerational play, the university revealed in a media release.
This concept explores how younger and older generations engage in play across diverse contexts, fostering enjoyable, inclusive, and engaging activities that stimulate the mind and build positive relationships.
The project aims to understand the global landscape of intergenerational play and develop principles and programs benefiting all participants.
Professor Kervin highlighted the importance of this research in combating social isolation, particularly among older people.
“Intergenerational play has been in existence across cultures for millennia. It is a connecting force for older and younger generations to come together to exchange ideas, values, traditions, knowledge and skills. But what is missing is an understanding of what this looks like across diverse groups and cultures and how it can benefit everyone involved,” Professor Kervin said.
She continued, “The possibilities of intergenerational play across cultures and different contexts have not yet been realised, so this project offers an exciting opportunity to delve into the principles of intergenerational play and inform policy moving forward. At a time when loneliness is one of the greatest threats to our wellbeing, this research could not be more important for the wellbeing of society.”
Dr Wang, a Research Fellow in the Institute for Superconducting and Electronic Materials at UOW, was awarded over $900,000 for her research into developing next-generation battery designs for mild and extreme conditions.
Her project focuses on sodium-ion batteries, which are considered promising candidates for large-scale energy systems supporting the path to net zero.
Dr Wang’s research will generate new knowledge in the battery field, aiming to enhance battery performance and promote innovation in electrolytes and electrodes.
“This research focuses on improving how batteries work and promoting innovation in electrolytes and electrodes, both of which are vital for practical battery development,” Dr Wang noted.
She continued, “The aim is to help Australia could become a top player in battery tech and renewable energy, helping both our country and the planet be more sustainable.”
The ARC Future Fellowships scheme supports outstanding mid-career researchers in conducting high-quality, innovative research with the potential to lead to significant discoveries and advancements.
UOW Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Vice President (Research and Sustainable Futures), Professor David Currow, congratulated Professor Kervin and Dr Wang on their success.
“The ARC Future Fellowships are prestigious and highly competitive. Professor Kervin and Dr Wang have two very different areas of research focus, but their remarkable work in their respective fields will reflect UOW’s research strengths and exceptional capabilities on an international level,” the professor remarked.
