From error-prone human driving to error-free superhuman-like self-driving

Automated vehicles (AVs) without human intervention are heralded to revolutionise transportation systems, but can make roads more dangerous for other users.

This project aims to rigorously assess AV interactions with human drivers and vulnerable road users, by simulating dangerous traffic dynamics through augmented virtual testing. This cost-effective approach provides a one-stop solution for large-scale AV deployment.

Expected outcomes include a ground-breaking AV testing platform that will start a new paradigm for AV deployment, and an error-free motion planning method. These advances will help achieve the triple-zero goal—zero fatalities, serious injuries, and emissions—while positioning Australian AV research at the global forefront.

The Multi-Modal Connected and Automated Transport Lab (M2CAT) in School of Civil Engineering, The University of Queensland was established in 2019.

It consists of two desk-top driving simulators, an e-scooter VR simulator, and a comprehensive simulation platform specifically designed for simulating mixed traffic with human-driven vehicles, connected vehicles, and automated vehicles.

We are also a key participant of the mixed reality mobility testbed (which includes an automated vehicle, remote control and supervision equipment) at the Royal Automobile Club of Queensland (RACQ) Mobility Centre of Excellence (MCE) testing circuit, supported by the Australian Research Council (LE220100025). 

The state-of-the-art research facilities in the lab enable researchers and industry and government partners to investigate challenges in transitioning to the era of connected and automated vehicles, such as: 

1) understanding emerging, disruptive, and intelligent mobility technologies’ impact on traffic efficiency, traffic safety, energy consumption, vehicle emissions, etc.; 

2) developing essential theories, the foundational algorithms and analytics that can seamlessly integrate future mobilities into the existing transportation systems; 

3) establishing a new breed of control strategies tailored to maximise the power of the connected environment and vehicle automation; and 

4) conducting fundamental research on complex systems modelling and the design of adaptable, controllable, resilient, and sustainable infrastructure systems (intelligent transportation systems and smart city in particular).

This is an Fellowship support scheme scholarship project that aligns with a recently awarded Australian Government grant.

The scholarship includes:

• living stipend of $37,500 per annum tax free (2026 rate), indexed annually
• your tuition fees covered.

Learn more about the Fellowship support scheme scholarship.

Your application will be assessed on a competitive basis.

We take into account your:

• previous academic record
• publication record
• honours and awards
• employment history.

A working knowledge of mixed traffic modelling, connected and automated vehicles, experiment design using driving simulator, virtual reality (VR), and test tracks would be of benefit to someone working on this project.

You will demonstrate academic achievement in the fields of traffic modelling and simulation and the potential for scholastic success.

A background or knowledge of connected and automated vehicles is highly desirable.

This project requires candidates to commence no later than Research Quarter 2, 2027. You can start in an earlier research quarter.

You must submit an expression of interest (EOI) by the closing date for the research quarter (RQ) you want to start in:

Before you apply

1. Check your eligibility for the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD).
2. Prepare your documentation.
3. If you have any questions about whether the project is suitable for your research interests, contact Professor Zuduo Zheng (zuduo.zheng@uq.edu.au).

When you apply

To apply, submit an expression of interest (EOI) for the program. You don't need to apply separately for the project or scholarship. How to submit an EOI

In your EOI, complete the 'Scholarship/Sponsorship' section with the following details:

1. Are you applying for an advertised project: 'Yes'
2. Project: 'Fellowship project scholarship'
3. Scholarship Code Listed in the Advertisement: DRIVING-ZHENG
4. Link to Scholarship Advertisement: https://study.uq.edu.au/study-options/phd-mphil-professional-doctorate/projects/error-prone-human-driving-error-free-superhuman-self-driving

Submit an EOI