For academic research to make a difference, it must bridge the gap between discovery and tangible impact in the real world. The UTS Research to Impact (R2I) program, funded by the Office of the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research), and run by the UTS Research Office, and aims to foster and accelerate the various stages of research translation.
Unlock potential with the R2I Validate Scheme
Providing targeted research translation support, the scheme offers a unique opportunity for UTS researchers to collaborate with UTS Rapido for physical, software and UX prototyping services. Participants will be supported to refine, test and demonstrate the translation potential of their research outputs.
UTS Rapido is an innovation hub in UTS dedicated to delivering engineering and technology solutions, and participants will develop practical, scalable solutions from their research knowledge and think about them from an and-user perspective.
While the full R2I program is set for its formal launch in 2026, the 2025 R2I Validate scheme is now inviting applications from UTS researchers keen to transform their innovative ideas into real world solutions.
“The R2I scheme reflects UTS' commitment to creating impact by supporting a diverse range of translation outcomes. We are looking to support UTS research to reach the people, places and systems where it can make the greatest difference,” said Dr Tania Bezzobs, Director of the Research Office .
We work with researchers who are ready to take the next step, turning validated insights into usable technology.
Hervé Harvard, Executive Director of UTS Rapido, articulates the scheme’s mission as follows:
“We work with researchers who are ready to take the next step, turning validated insights into usable technology,” he said, adding that as a translation partner, UTS Rapido speaks the language of business, not just research.
What you’ll gain
Participants in this scheme will benefit from:
- access to a world-class, multidisciplinary team comprising engineers, software developers, UX specialists, AI experts and project managers
- use of the UTS innovation ecosystem's facilities and tools
- support to advance your Technology Readiness Levels (TRLs)
- participation in an R&D model that integrates applied research, technical development, and end-to-end project delivery.
If you are seeking to improve your capability for future grant proposals by demonstrating high-TRL development, then this opportunity is for you.
Impact in action
The impact of UTS Rapido’s collaborative approach is evident in a range of successful UTS research translation projects:
- Coral research for reef restoration: UTS Rapido helped develop a modular phenotyping system to accelerate coral resilience research, which included engineering a transportable, multi-taxa system with integrated sensors and software. This resulted in "transformative capability" for high-throughput coral experimentation, now supporting reef restoration research globally.
- Improving forensic DNA collection: Collaborating with the UTS Faculty of Science and NSW Police Force, UTS Rapido refined an adhesive roller for DNA collection, resolving usability, materials, and engineering challenges. The outcome is a lighter, more robust, injection-moulding-ready device now undergoing field trials to improve evidence quality.
- Gender Legislative Index: UTS Rapido worked with the UTS Faculty of Law to develop an AI-powered analytical tool that benchmarks, scores, and ranks laws for gender responsiveness. This tool was instrumental in establishing a new parliamentary body in Australia, demonstrating Rapido’s capacity for social impact.
- Detecting Misinformation through Data Science: UTS Rapido contributed to a suite of cloud-native analytics and AI tools that assist defence and security agencies in detecting and interpreting coordinated disinformation campaigns in real time, enhancing situational awareness.
Get involved
Up to six applicants will be selected through the R2I Validate scheme.
- Successful teams will receive support in developing a prototype or mock-up, along with expert guidance on subsequent product development steps from the UTS Research Office and UTS Rapido.
- Projects should be completed within six months and cost between $50,000 to $100,000.
- Participants will be expected to engage in periodic meetings with the UTS Research Office and UTS Rapido throughout the project duration.
Additionally, participation in select R2I capability-building or knowledge-sharing activities may be requested.
How to apply
The application process for the 2025 R2I Validate scheme is structured to ensure the selection of high-potential projects:
Stage 1: Researchers must submit their application form by September 19, 2025.
Stage 2: Shortlisting and interviews – Eight shortlisted candidates will be invited to meet with the UTS Research Office and UTS Rapido to discuss the specifics of their prototype or mock-up requirements.
Stage 3: Feasibility feedback – The UTS Research Office and UTS Rapido will provide comprehensive feedback on the feasibility of the proposed projects.
Stage 4: Selection and project commencement – Up to six candidates will be selected, with projects scheduled to commence by November 1, 2025.
For more information get in touch with Dr Radhika Ramadas, Project Development Manager, Research Translation Foci, UTS Research Office.