Our research strengths
Our combination of focused research, valuable industry collaborations and investment in cutting-edge technologies, has driven significant research achievements and attracted recognition from around the world. Our four dedicated research institutes, two research platforms and nine research centres ensure we are at the forefront of discovery.
A growing list of important research findings, business partnerships and spin-off companies, along with a steady increase in government grants and international rankings, puts Swinburne in an advantageous position for the future.
$47.2m external research income1
215 research degree completions2
2,558 indexed publications in 20253
Top 300 global ranking for sustainability research impact4
Highly cited researchers
Ten Swinburne researchers appearing across 12 fields of research were identified as leading researchers placed globally in the top 1% in their respective disciplines in 2025 by Clarivate Analytics Web of Science Group.
Top worldwide rankings
Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings has listed Swinburne in the top 300 of the world’s best universities, while Times Higher Education (THE) Young University Rankings has listed Swinburne in the top 25 of the world’s best young universities.
More than our rank
Swinburne is also participating in global initiative More Than Our Rank to showcase our research success beyond traditional rankings.
More about our research achievements
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Rankings and ratings
Our standing in prestigious world academic rankings reflects our commitment to high-quality teaching, research and graduate outcomes.
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Partnered research centres and training hubs
Partnered Research Centres and Centres of Excellence are significant activities in areas of national importance. They focus on impactful research and transformative outcomes.
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Achievements and success stories
We don’t just talk the talk — we walk the walk. Read about some of our key partnerships, programs and recent success stories.
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Start-up and spin-off companies for research translation
Learn more about our successful spin-off companies, formed through research partnerships with businesses and industry.
Significant research findings
Swinburne's research findings have a far-reaching impact on science, industry and the broader community. The university's researchers have made discoveries that have dramatically changed the face of fields ranging from medicine to social services, astronomy and aeronautical safety.
Explore some of our most recent research outcomes:
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Are we ready for a world more connected in the Internet of Things?
- Technology
We are already connected in many ways through technology, and we’re about to get more connected.Friday 20 November 2015 -
World-first intravenous psychedelic trial to treat binge eating to launch
- Health
The world-first IV-administered psychedelic trial for binge eating disorder will kick off this year at Swinburne.
Thursday 10 April 2025 -
Less than three per cent of aged care residents access mental health services. A pilot initiative is giving the sector hope.
- Health
A transformative mental health initiative for aged care residents has been awarded a $600K grant from The Ian Potter Foundation.
Wednesday 20 December 2023 -
Swinburne medical cannabis driving trial starts
- Health
Swinburne is leading a trial as part of the Victorian Government’s $4.9 million investment in developing an informed position on medicinal cannabis and drug driving.
Monday 04 November 2024 -
Swinburne appoints new Director of Social Innovation Research Institute
- University
Professor Anthony McCosker, a leader in digital inclusion, has been appointed as the new Director of Swinburne’s Social Innovation Research Institute.Monday 12 August 2024
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Research impact
Our researchers are producing innovative research solutions to real-world problems across a range of disciplines and sectors.
1 Total external research income for 2024
2 Higher degree by research completions (November 2024 – November 2025)
3 Scopus indexed publications in 2025
4 Ranked in the top 300 universities worldwide for leading the way in social and environmental sustainability by QS World University Rankings: Sustainability 2025
Contact Swinburne Research
Whatever your query please direct your general enquiry to the research team on +61 3 9214 4859 or via research@swinburne.edu.au.