Zero-emissions aviation the focus for first Founder In Residence

Australia is poised to become a world-leader in hydrogen and battery powered air travel, thanks to Swinburne University of Technology’s first Founder In Residence.

Dovetail Electric Aviation Business Operations Manager, Rachael Barritt, will work alongside Swinburne's top researchers to develop new ideas and ventures that can have a real-world impact in aviation and aerospace.

Barritt will work closely with the team from Swinburne’s Aerostructures Innovation Research Hub (AIR Hub), utilising the hub’s cutting-edge capabilities in intelligent manufacturing processes, advanced composite materials, advanced air operations, and sustainable fuels. Alongside Dovetail Electric Aviation, they will bring to life the most innovative and cutting-edge technologies to help shape the future of sustainable aviation.

“As a Founder In Residence at Swinburne, I am excited to be working at the forefront of aerospace technology. This program represents the future of innovation,” said Founder in Residence Rachael Barritt.

“Working with leading experts from industry and academia, we will help translate cutting-edge research into sustainable, real-world solutions for the aviation industry.”

Fast-tracking commercial outcomes

The Founder In Residence initiative is designed to bring experienced entrepreneurs to Swinburne to supercharge commercialisation pathways, supported by Swinburne’s world-leading facilities, capabilities and research.

“We are thrilled to welcome Dovetail Electric Aviation and Rachael Barritt to Swinburne,” said Dr Werner van der Merwe, Swinburne’s Vice President, Innovation and Enterprise.

“By connecting experienced entrepreneurs and leading researchers, we are accelerating the commercialisation of new technology to put Australia at the forefront of global innovation. Together, we are paving the way for a sustainable future for air travel.”

Barritt is the first Swinburne Founder In Residence to be announced for 2023. The program will drive market-led venture creation across three of Swinburne’s flagship research areas – space and aerospace technology, innovative planet, and medical technology.

The program will create new ventures of mutual benefit to entrepreneurs and researchers, fast-tracking technological advancements and developing robust market-ready solutions.