Since 2007, EWB’s Research Challenge has empowered academics and students to use their skills and passion to develop sustainable solutions. The Research briefs are developed with community – in Australia and overseas – and enable new knowledge and technologies that benefit people in disadvantaged communities.
A unique opportunity to make your thesis count
The Research Challenge accepts applications from final year undergraduate and postgraduate students in any discipline. Research themes include agriculture, assistive technology, business development, education, energy, international development, professional practice, shelter and water, sanitation and hygiene. The project must be part of a students’ formal studies and usually takes the form of a thesis, a research project or capstone subject.
“The most powerful effect on students who participate in the EWB Research Challenge is that it allows them to connect engineering theory to how engineering can be used to help people and communities. Instead of focusing on abstract theories and concepts, they see how their knowledge can have an impact on people.”
STUDENTS
Universities
Research Topics
The research topics for this year are outlined below. For students and academics planning research for next year, please complete an Expression of Interest form.
Browse our available research topics below. If you have any queries, please read our frequently asked questions.
“EWB’s final year research program is a great opportunity to become exposed to humanitarian engineering during university and meeting other like-minded and passionate organisations and students. The program provides a unique opportunity to be involved in a challenging real world research project with a meaningful impact.”
Community Partners
We collaborate with like-minded community organisations of all sizes who have identified challenges that require innovative solutions. If you have such a challenge, please contact us to explore a partnership.
Corporate Partners
EWB seeks funding partners to support our research efforts. Funding our Research program is a great way to have an impact whilst getting your business in front of some of the most promising soon-to-be graduates. EWB also seeks corporate mentors to support our researchers. To discuss our range of partnership opportunities, please contact us.
Research Symposium
An annual, interactive event showcasing the latest technology and design research for social change. Speakers from research and practice share their latest findings through workshops and panel discussions; engaging students, academics, industry professionals and non-government workers.
Our University Partners
Application for research topics is a competitive process with preference given to students attending one of EWB’s partner universities.
Stories of Impact
3D printed shoes – engineering know-how changing children’s lives 22 November, 2018 - From ordering online for direct-to-your-door delivery, to real time video chat with the other side of the world, there are multiple efficiencies in our technological world that we all take… read more
Mind the gap! 22 November, 2018 - New skills are opening up opportunities in emerging engineering sectors. Despite an early start on this sultry hot Sunday morning, a first floor classroom at Royal University Phnom Penh is… read more
Academics challenging conventional thinking 5 June, 2018 - Many of us have seen news images of people impacted by conflict or natural disasters fleeing their homes. There are global political debates about where these individuals and families can… read more