Research themes
The Centre for Future Autonomous Systems and Technologies (FAST) vision is to be an internationally renowned research centre leading the development of trusted autonomous systems and supplementary technologies that will support the transition of work and jobs in industries including mining, construction, defence, agriculture and manufacturing.
FAST is focussing on grand challenges that require a multidisciplinary and collaborative research approach, addressing questions such as:
- How to create, develop and deploy autonomous systems and technologies that are trusted and bring tangible economic and social benefit?
- How to extract the earth’s natural resources without exposing humans to risk, minimise environmental impacts and eliminate waste?
FAST looks to help solve the next phase of large-scale complex industrial problems involving automation in complex environments. Its research portfolio consists of government and industry-led partnerships that also includes links to other schools within UQ as well as external institutions
Fields of expertise within this Research Centre encompass many of the technical domains required to manage the impending transition in work and jobs.
Explore our three core research themes and associated research groups below.
Leading the development of trusted autonomous systems to support and enhance operational safety, productivity and sustainability of major industries including mining, manufacturing and agriculture.
Research capabilities
- Mechatronics, automation and mission planning
- Sensing, systems safety and reliability
- Strategic and tactical planning of mining systems
- Systems simulation and virtual reality
Leading the development, planning and implementation of novel and socially acceptable mining methods and systems needed for a sustainable transition to low-carbon economies.
Research capabilities
Leading the development advanced computational modelling, simulation, data integration and data analytics to support decision making and enhance operational safety, productivity and sustainability of major industries including mining, manufacturing and agriculture.