InvestigXR: Enhancing Crash Scene Investigations Through Extended Reality

About this project

Harness new technologies to transform crash investigations

Are you passionate about leveraging technology to create meaningful community impact? If you're looking to advance your career in augmented and virtual reality (AR/VR), the University of South Australia – Australia’s University of Enterprise – offers a unique, hands-on PhD within the Australian Research Centre for Interactive and Virtual Environments (IVE), in partnership with the Centre for Automotive Safety Research (CASR) at the University of Adelaide.

Our project addresses critical challenges in road crash investigations, aiming to develop InvestigXR – an innovative (AR/VR) tool that improves interagency collaboration, data accuracy, and systemic analysis. We’re exploring how AR/VR technologies can transform collaboration and analysis in crash investigations to prevent future accidents.

As a PhD candidate, you’ll work on the cutting edge of AR/VR, developing this groundbreaking tool—one of the first of its kind for crash investigations. InvestigXR will empower agencies to simulate, review, and annotate crash scenes, fostering more efficient investigations and proactive accident prevention strategies.

You’ll be part of a multidisciplinary team at IVE and CASR, offering top-tier research and insights into road safety practices. IVE is renowned for pioneering AR/VR research, and you’ll benefit from state-of-the-art equipment, high-performance computing systems, and interactive visualisation labs designed to foster innovation.

Your environment will be enriched by a diverse community of PhD candidates, postdoctoral researchers, and academic staff, encouraging collaboration and peer learning. Regular seminars, workshops, and conferences provide ample opportunities for professional development and networking.

What you’ll do

In this project-based research degree, you will undertake a variety of activities throughout the project, combining both research and practical application. Central to the project will be developing and validating InvestigXR. You will validate the tool through mock crash investigations, gaining hands-on experience in applied research, immersive technologies, and stakeholder engagement.

You will co-design workshops with key stakeholders, such as the Department of Infrastructure and Transport (DIT) and SA Police, to identify user needs and refine the tool’s functionality. These workshops will provide firsthand exposure to the practical requirements of road crash investigations and foster collaboration with industry professionals.

Travel may be required for site visits and stakeholder meetings, as well as attendance at conferences and workshops to present research findings and network with other professionals in the field.

Our project offers you a unique opportunity to develop expertise in AR/VR technologies while contributing to innovations in public safety. Upon completion, you will emerge with industry-relevant skills and the ability to drive advancements in road safety and investigative practices.

Overall, the project offers a balanced combination of research, industry engagement, and practical application, equipping you with comprehensive skills in AR/VR development, stakeholder collaboration, and crash investigation processes.

Where you’ll be based

You will be based in IVE. As a world leader in Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR), the Australian Research Centre for Interactive and Virtual Environments - IVE - is a unique alignment of computer science, engineering, neuroscience, art, architecture, and design.  

IVE is responding to the challenge of increased demand for AR and VR technologies globally. Our researchers are leaders in many areas of AR and VR research including wearable computing, interface design, empathic computing, 3D visualisation, perception, and telepresence.  

IVE is one of the largest concentrations of AR and VR research in Australia. Our vast experience in advanced manufacturing, Internet of Things (IoT), interactive art, and design for healthcare and defence allows us to work in collaboration with our industry partners to transform industry and solve large-scale societal challenges. Financial Support

This project is funded for reasonable research expenses. Additionally, a living allowance scholarship of $35,200 per annum (2025 rate) is available to eligible applicants. Australian Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander applicants will be eligible to receive an increased stipend rate of $50,291 per annum. A fee-offset or waiver for the standard term of the program is also included. For full terms and benefits of the scholarship please refer to our scholarship information for domestic students or international students.
 
Eligibility and Selection

This project is open to applications from both Domestic and International applicants. 

Applicants must meet the eligibility criteria for entrance into a PhD. Additionally applicants must meet the project selection criteria:  

• Experience with AR/VR Technologies: applicants should demonstrate familiarity with augmented and virtual reality (AR/VR) technologies, including any experience in developing or working with immersive systems or applications. Experience in design or simulation tools would also be an asset.
• Programming and Software Development: a background in programming or software development will be beneficial, especially in areas related to AR/VR, simulation, or interactive environments. Applicants should highlight any relevant technical skills that would contribute to the development of InvestigXR. 

All applications that meet the eligibility and selection criteria will be considered for this project.

The successful applicant is expected to study full-time and to be based at our Mawson Lakes campus in the north of Adelaide.

Essential Dates

Applicants are expected to start in a timely fashion upon receipt of an offer. Extended deferral periods are not available. Applications close on Tuesday 26 November 2024.