April 14, 2025

Distinguished Professors share cutting-edge research at public showcase event

World-renowned researchers presented their latest innovations in cybersecurity, children’s health and electroceutical medical technology

Some of the University of Wollongong’s most renowned academics shared their cutting-edge research with the Illawarra community at the inaugural Emerging Global Research Opportunities event on Tuesday 15 April at the UOW Science Space. 

As the University celebrates its 50th Anniversary, the event highlighted UOW’s commitment to research excellence and innovation over the past five decades – and to sharing that research with the community.  

Organised by UOW’s Distinguished Professors Alliance, the speakers shared their research findings on topics critical to Australia’s future including cybersecurity, children’s health and the potential use of electroceuticals (innovative bioelectronic medical technologies that use electrical stimulation to treat disease) for mental health conditions including schizophrenia.  

Distinguished Professor is the highest academic title awarded by UOW, reserved for researchers who have achieved global recognition in their fields through exceptional contributions to knowledge and innovation. 

Three UOW Distinguished Professors gave rapid-fire presentations on their research alongside some of the University’s highly talented, up-and-coming researchers in their fields. 

A fourth Distinguished Professor, Gordon Wallace AO, a founding member of the Distinguished Professors Alliance, then led an interactive panel discussion. 

“This unique opportunity invites the local community to actively contribute by sharing questions and perspectives,” Distinguished Professor Wallace said. 

“We want to ensure that our research continues to align with community needs and expectations as we deliver real-world impact.” 

The presentations were: 

Cybersecurity: Keeping data safe: Presented by Distinguished Professor Willy Susilo and Dr Zuoxia Yu  this session explored cutting-edge strategies for protecting sensitive information in an increasingly digital world. Professor Susilo is internationally recognised for his expertise in cryptography and cybersecurity.  

Children's health: A global perspective with local implications:  Distinguished Professor Anthony Okely and Dr Megan Hammersley discussed the importance of physical activity and nutrition for children’s health, drawing on global insights with direct relevance to local communities. Professor Okely is a leading authority on child health and physical activity research.  

Electroceuticals: Does electrical stimulation have a role in treating schizophrenia?: Distinguished Professor Xu-Feng Huang and Dr Peng Zheng delved into the innovative use of electrical stimulation in treating mental health conditions such as schizophrenia. Professor Huang is renowned for his pioneering work in neurobiology and mental health research.  

Attendees had the opportunity to meet members of the Distinguished Professors Alliance as well as some of our emerging highly talented researchers. 

The event is one of two planned for 2025 hosted by the Distinguished Professors Alliance. The Alliance was established in 2024 as a part of UOW's commitment to its global research standing and to facilitate opportunities for emerging and mid-career researchers on the world stage.