Research
We are a vibrant community of internationally recognised researchers focused on addressing major challenges in power systems, computation networks, electronic devices and materials, and systems engineering.
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Communications and networks
We analyse, design and optimise communications systems and networks for a variety of emerging applications. We use tools and approaches from communication theory, coding, information theory, detection and estimation, systems theory, stochastic processes, game theory, signal processing, network optimisation and much more.
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Control and signal processing
We undertake research, education, and industry engagement activities that relate to the modelling, optimisation, monitoring and automation of dynamical systems. Our research expertise ranges from the mathematical foundations of systems engineering, to applications in water and power system management, defence, and biomedical technology.
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Electronics and Photonics
Advancing the frontiers in photonics and electronics towards the development of novel devices and systems for emerging applications. Our research spans electronics, nano-electronics, photonics, nano-photonics, antenna engineering, microwave and millimetre-wave engineering, and systems engineering.
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Power and Energy
Electrical networks are the backbone of the future low-carbon energy infrastructure. Our research spans power and energy system modelling (transmission and distribution), techno-economic modelling, stochastic optimisation, integration of low-carbon technologies, and Smart Grids, from both planning and operational perspectives.
Research at the Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering
Watch an overview of the four research groups within the Department.
About the department
The Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering was established in 1947 as part of the Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology, which has been offering degrees at The University of Melbourne since 1889.
Find out more about our history
Our courses
The Department offers both PhD and Masters level research higher degrees. Our flagship program is the Master of Electrical Engineering — with a Bachelor degree pathway via an Electrical Systems Major via the Bachelor of Science.
The Master of Electrical Engineering is professionally recognised under two major accreditation frameworks — EUR-ACE® and the Washington Accord (through Engineers Australia).
Find out more about our study options
Our research
The Department is host to a vibrant internationally recognised research program, which receives exceptional support from industry and government. The Department has strengths in these main discipline areas:
- Communication systems and networks
- Control and signal processing
- Photonic and electronic systems
- Power and energy systems
These disciplines reflect the core ingredients of our research and research training programs, across a number of centres, institutes and laboratories.
Research centres
- Australia-US Multidisciplinary University Research Initiative (AUSMURI)
- ARC Centre of Excellence for Gravitational Wave Discovery (OzGrav)
- Trusted Autonomous Systems CRC
Labs
- David Caro labs
- Gigabit wireless and nano-photonic sensor laboratory
- Melbourne information, decision and autonomous systems (MIDAS)
- Old Met labs
- Printed electronics and biomedical sensors lab
- Smart Grid Lab
- Tucker Lab
Professor Chris Manzie
Head of Department
Industry engagement in teaching
We recognise the value of a curriculum guided by industry. We invite industry members to contribute to the ongoing refinement of our curriculum.
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Host a student intern
Host a Masters student within your organisation through our internship programs.
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Student industry projects
Engage our students to work on a technical project of relevance to your organisation. These projects are undertaken by Masters students on campus.
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Advisory group
Our advisory group provides valuable insights on our strategic planning, teaching, and research programs, to ensure they are relevant to industry needs.
Study with us
Vision Statement
From day one, UoM EEE graduates engineer the innovative solutions that are revolutionising technology and addressing the most complex challenges faced by society today. Our graduates not only create technical solutions by drawing on their extensive knowledge of Electrical Engineering fundamentals and engineering project experience, but shape these solutions to fit societal and commercial needs. They are meaningfully connected with their fellow graduates and share as a cohort a rigorous engineering ethos.
Master of Electrical Engineering Specialisations
Tailor your master's studies by following one of our specialisation areas.
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Autonomous Systems
Develop core expertise in fundamental principles of electrical engineering with specific focus on the areas of control systems, signal processing and optimisation that underpin modern autonomous systems in applications from robotics to UAVs.
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Low-Carbon Power Systems
Develop key expertise in the operation, planning and design of low-carbon power systems and energy markets with deep penetration of renewables, distributed energy resources, and smart grid technologies.
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Intelligent Networks and Communications
Develop core expertise in the fundamental principles underpinning modern-day communications engineering, discover the technologies behind modern communication networks such as 5G and IoT, and learn how to design the communication systems of the future.
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Electronics and Photonics
Acquire core skills and knowledge of the fundamental principles in electronic engineering with an emphasis on designing and building electronic and opto-electronic systems for applications in modern communications, computing, instrumentation, and sensing.
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Business Specialisation
Study tailored business subjects developed in partnership with the Melbourne Business School, covering how economics, marketing and finance relate to engineering.
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General Masters
Acquire core skills across all the specialisations by tailoring your study choices to your interests.
Undergraduate pathway into Electrical Engineering
The Electrical Systems major is offered in the Bachelor of Science and leads to the above masters-level study Electrical Engineering.
To become a professionally accredited electrical engineer, you will complete five years of study, starting with a Electrical Systems major in a three-year undergraduate degree, followed by a two-year Master of Engineering.
Full course information about our undergraduate study options can be found in the University of Melbourne Study guide:
Directed Studies
Directed studies provide the students with broader experience in addition to the regular class based learning. Directed studies can be conducted in the form of an individually arranged supervised study of current research topics. Successful candidates will work closely with staff members within Electrical and Electronic Department.
Current Projects and associated staff contacts
Career outcomes
Electrical engineering graduates are known for their strong analytical and problem solving skills. They find employment in a variety of capacities, ranging from research and technical engineering work to management and finance, across a broad array of areas, including the energy, telecommunications, computer, electronics, defence, manufacturing, automation, transport and biotechnology industries.
Electrical Engineering Career Pathways brochure (PDF 465.7 KB)
As one concrete example, this article describes the collaboration between researchers and engineers from the Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering and Rubicon Water that developed a distributed feedback control system for reducing water loss from irrigation, achieving a 50% reduction! This represents a significant contribution to improving the health of our waterways and sustainability of our farming practices.
