Transport modelling and optimisation of automated and modular mobility systems

The rapid development of connected and automated vehicles, demand-responsive transport, and modular vehicle systems is creating new opportunities for more flexible mobility services. 

At the same time, these systems introduce complex operational questions concerning vehicle routing, service coordination, coupling and decoupling decisions, and integration with existing road and public transport networks under changing demand and traffic conditions.

Recent trials of automated shuttles and modular mobility concepts suggest potential benefits for first- and last-mile access, demand-responsive capacity provision, and more efficient vehicle utilisation. However, their effects on passenger service quality, traffic flow, safety, energy consumption, and network performance are not yet well understood.

This project will develop transport modelling and optimisation methods for the design and evaluation of emerging mobility systems, with particular emphasis on automated and modular vehicles. The research may combine traffic flow modelling, simulation, operations research, and data-driven analysis to examine alternative operating strategies and support planning and operational decisions for future transport systems.
 

The research environment that you will be working in is rapidly growing into one of the strongest international transport research groups. 

In the latest QS Shanghai rankings, UQ is now listed between 51-75 in the world in the field of “Transportation Science & Technology”. 

The expertise brought from the existing projects (ARC Discovery, ARC Linkage, ARC DECRA, iMOVE CRC) will provide you with the opportunity to prosper in your research. 

The group benefits from access to extensive real-world mobility datasets and a broad range of traffic and transport analysis software through the Intelligent Transportation Systems Research Lab within the School. 

The group’s strong collaborative relationship with the transport industry and government agencies also provides you with valuable opportunities to engage closely with practitioners to gain real-world insights and to participate in industry placements for professional development.
 

This project is supported by the Research project scholarship.

Learn more about the Research project 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 transport modelling, operations research, data analytics, and/or mathematics would be of benefit to someone working on this project.

You will demonstrate academic achievement in the fields of transport engineering and/or operations research and the potential for scholastic success.

You must submit an expression of interest (EOI) by 28 August, 2026 28 August, 2026.

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 Dr Xiaolin Gong (x.gong@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: 'Research project scholarship'
3. Scholarship Code Listed in the Advertisement: TRANSPORT-GONG
4. Link to Scholarship Advertisement: https://study.uq.edu.au/study-options/phd-mphil-professional-doctorate/projects/transport-modelling-and-optimisation-automated-and-modular-mobility-systems

Submit an EOI