Associate ProfessorZoran Najdovski

Associate Professor Zoran Najdovski leads research in Intelligent Human-Centric Systems, Robotics and Mechatronics at Deakin University. He leads the Intelligent Human-Centric Systems research group and serves as Chair of the Energy Theme Working Group within the Recycling and Clean Energy Commercialisation Hub (REACH). His work focuses on strengthening the integration of human capability with intelligent robotic and mechatronic systems through design-led, translational research that bridges scientific discovery, engineering innovation, and real-world deployment.

His research is centred on four interconnected themes: human–machine interaction, haptically-enabled robotics, teleoperation and remote systems, and intelligent automation. Through these areas, he has developed a distinctive approach in which robotic and human–machine systems are used as experimental platforms to generate new knowledge while simultaneously enabling validation and deployment in operational environments.

Zoran leads major collaborative research programs across transport, manufacturing, Defence, healthcare, and industrial safety. His work has resulted in nationally significant capabilities, including Australia’s first human-capable high-G centrifuge for pilot training and human performance research, autonomous robotic systems for rail maintenance and industrial applications, and haptically-enabled robotic systems for remote medical diagnostics. These programs demonstrate translating research into deployable technologies that improve safety, operational performance, and workforce capability.

Associate Professor Najdovski has secured more than A$12 million in research funding and has led collaborative programs with organisations including the Downer EDI Rail, Telstra, Defence Science and Technology Group, Thales, WorkSafe Victoria, the Australian Army, and the Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO). He has published more than 80 peer-reviewed papers, attracted over 1,400 citations, holds patents in haptic control and motion simulation technologies, and serves as an editor of the ROBOMECH Journal.

His research leadership has been recognised through two Endeavour Research Fellowships, Deakin University Vice-Chancellor’s Awards for Innovation and for Delivering Effective Partnerships, invited presentations at national forums including AusRail and the Rail Industry Safety and Standards Board (RISSB), and international collaborations with leading researchers at Harvard University and Nagoya University.