About

 

The ANU Defence Institute coordinates a strategic approach to Defence engagement.  The Institute provides a ‘front door’ to direct enquiries and serves as a hub for fostering collaboration and partnerships between the ANU, the Defence sector and industry leaders. 

We develop networks, cultivate relationships and provide resources for Defence-related research initiatives, to leverage the University's research quality across science, technology, engineering, mathematics, computer science, health and psychology, social sciences, humanities, policy, regulation and law.

Moreover, we support building Defence-relevant capabilities for the future through tailored education and training programs. 

To learn more about how the ANU Defence Institute can connect you to our researchers, contact our team.

Our mission

 

To support Australia’s national capacity in Government, Defence, industry and broader society to promote national security and build Defence capability.  

We will bridge the gap between Defence stakeholders and research teams at ANU; develop partnerships that drive advancements in Defence technology, strategy and policy; empower researchers to tackle complex challenges and contribute to national security; and facilitate opportunities for Defence to support and benefit from the world-leading research at ANU.

By fostering a collaborative environment, the ANU Defence Institute will enable more coordinated ANU engagement with Defence and Defence industry through co-creation of research and education priorities for the short, medium and long-term.  

What we offer

 
  • Networks: The Institute has a network of Defence-relevant researchers that can share opportunities and coordinate delivery of development activities to upskill researchers working with Defence and Defence industry.
  • Connection: Through our network, we connect Defence organisations with leading researchers and academic experts. Whether seeking specialised knowledge or innovative solutions, we aim to facilitate partnerships that will drive innovation and progress.
  • Training: The ANU has extensive experience and capability in delivering targeted short courses and specialised programs. Our offerings, designed by our skilled academics and utilising our state-of-the-art facilities, can enhance technical competencies and foster strategic thinking and leadership skills for Defence staff.
  • Education: The ANU offers undergraduate and postgraduate courses to develop expertise in policy, strategy, technology and analysis. Our academic programs are enriched by research insights, ensuring that students benefit from the latest developments and advancements.
  • Academic freedom: The Institute builds on long-standing Defence-relevant research at ANU and informs Defence policy.  
  • Collaboration: The Institute serves as a catalyst for collaborative research, bringing together multidisciplinary teams to address pressing Defence challenges and develop fit-for-purpose solutions. 

Our unique approach

 

We bring decades of experience in engaging Government on technical projects, social sciences and policy, with world-leading focus on the Indo-Pacific region. In addition to science and technology-based research, we deliver across humanities, social sciences and governance research.

At the Institute, we are committed to fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation and quality and promote a multidisciplinary approach to research.

We are dedicated to conducting research that keeps Australians safe and supports Defence to safely navigate our ever-challenging security environment.

The ANU aims to develop collaborative partnerships with fellow universities, each becoming an integral piece in a national puzzle and collectively contributing to the advancement of our nation’s priorities. 

Why work with us

 

Expertise: Benefit from our networks and the skills of our researchers and scholars in diverse fields relevant to Defence and security matters pertinent to Australia and the world.

Impact: Make a tangible impact on national security and Defence through quality research combined with effective, meaningful collaboration.

Innovation: Access the University’s cutting-edge facilities and innovative approaches to addressing ever-evolving Defence needs. 

Defence-related work at ANU

 

Strategic and Defence Studies Centre

The Strategic and Defence Studies Centre (SDSC) at the Australian National University focuses on understanding the complexity of Asia’s strategic environment, Australia’s place in it, and the analysis of armed force in international affairs.

National Security College

As a joint initiative between the Commonwealth Government and The Australian National University (ANU), the National Security College (NSC) is unique, serving as a meeting place for policy, academia, industry and the wider community.

Navigating Cybernetic Futures

The School of Cybernetics’ learning experience series, Navigating Cybernetic Futures, offers short non-award learning experiences preparing today’s leaders, creatives and change-makers for an increasingly fast-paced technological world.

Nuclear Systems Major

Study Nuclear Systems at ANU, preparing you for work across a range of industries, including agriculture, environmental monitoring, medicine, security, mining, power generation, and beyond.

Heavy Ion Accelerator Facility

We work with researchers from across the globe to study the fundamental structure of matter with beams of high energy particles.

The Heavy Ion Accelerator Facility is a unique scientific facility that combines voltages of up to 15 million volts with some of the most accurate beam control and detection technology in the world.

Introduction to Nuclear Science Micro-credential

Using a combination of self-study, lectures and interactive sessions, this Micro-credential from ANU offers an introduction to the building blocks of visible matter in the Universe.

Health Executive Education

Our executive education program offers an opportunity to advance your career as a current or future health leader. As the national university we prepare leaders to make a difference and to shape the future of health and healthcare in Australia and the region.

Asia and the Pacific short programs

With a variety of programs to choose from, including Asian and Pacific Studies, Public Policy, Regulation and Governance, Diplomacy, and International Relations, our Graduate Certificates provide a wide range of options that help contextualise Australia's regional partnerships.

ANU Australian Army Research Centre Fellowship

Expressions of interest are now open for a Research Fellowship in the Australian Army Research Centre (AARC), with flexibility of part-time or full-time. Fellowships are available to current ANU academic staff and PhD students graduated within the last three years. Fellows must be Australian citizens or hold recognised security clearance.

Contacts

Headshot of Lori Sciusco
Lorena Sciusco (Lori)
 defenceinstitute@anu.edu.au
 (02) 6125 4684
Headshot of Julieanne Dougherty
Dr Julieanne Dougherty
 defenceinstitute@anu.edu.au
 (02) 6125 4684
Headshot of Ute Roessner
Prof Ute Roessner AM FAA
 defenceinstitute@anu.edu.au