ARC Future Fellow Models Organism Shape Development
Murdoch University Professor Awarded Prestigious ARC Future Fellowship for groundbreaking Biological Shape Analysis
Table of Contents
Professor Hamid Laga from Murdoch University’s School of Information Technology has been honoured with a 2025 Australian Research Council (ARC) Future Fellowship,securing a significant research grant of $1,276,884. This prestigious award will empower Professor Laga to lead a pioneering project focused on developing advanced mathematical tools and algorithms for understanding the intricate processes of biological shape progress, growth, and deformation.
Unlocking the Secrets of Biological Form
The core of Professor Laga’s research lies in creating sophisticated mathematical models and analytical techniques to decipher how biological objects evolve their three-dimensional shapes. This includes understanding the dynamic processes of growth and deformation as these organisms interact with their environments.
“The project will generate new knowledge on how to mathematically model 3D geometry, deformations and growth, using a novel generation of neural networks that are physically motivated, compact and fast to train,” Professor Laga explained. He further elaborated that these advancements are “crucial for understanding developmental processes, natural growth and disease progression in biological objects.”
A key outcome anticipated from this research is the discovery of innovative techniques and computational tools capable of operating directly on readily available RGB images and videos. This direct-to-image approach promises to streamline analysis and broaden accessibility.
Impact Across Disciplines
The implications of Professor Laga’s work are far-reaching, with substantial benefits expected across several critical fields.
Computer Vision and Graphics: The development of novel algorithms for 3D shape analysis will push the boundaries of what is possible in visual computing, enabling more realistic and accurate digital representations and manipulations of biological forms. Biology and Health: The ability to precisely model and analyze biological growth and deformation holds immense potential for advancing our understanding of fundamental biological processes.
Revolutionizing Medical Diagnosis and Biological Understanding
The research has direct applications in critical areas of human health and biological science.
Early Disease Detection: In medical diagnosis, subtle abnormalities in 3D hand and body motion can serve as early indicators of degenerative neurological diseases. Professor Laga’s work could lead to more sensitive and earlier diagnostic tools by providing a deeper understanding of these subtle kinematic changes.
Growth Analysis and Disease Progression: For biological growth analysis, the accurate statistical modelling of shape deformations over time is paramount. This research will enable scientists to better differentiate between normal growth patterns and the progression of diseases, and also to predict future growth trajectories with greater accuracy.
The ARC Future Fellowships Scheme: Investing in Research Excellence
The ARC Future Fellowships scheme underscores the Australian Government’s dedication to fostering research excellence. It supports outstanding mid-career researchers in undertaking high-quality research that addresses national and international priorities. This year’s round saw a total of $114.6 million awarded to 100 researchers, highlighting a significant investment in Australia’s research talent.
Professor Laga’s fellowship is a testament to his significant contributions to the field and his potential to drive impactful advancements in biological shape analysis, with profound implications for science and medicine.
**
Image: Professor Hamid Laga*