Thesis abstract:

Michael Wong is an Australian engineer at the University of Sydney’s Space System Engineering Research Group. Michael has more than 15 years’ professional experience across multilateral, regional and low- and middle-income country settings. Prior to joining the University of Sydney, he led the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade’s Regional COVID-19 Technical Assistance Program Secretariat, where he played a central role in the Australian Government’s delivery of COVID-19 vaccines across 18 countries in the Indo-Pacific.Michael’s research is centred around the development of the next generation of wearable microneedle sensors for medical applications, such as advanced biomonitoring systems for astronauts, mental health settings and people living with disabilities. His interdisciplinary approach integrates a range of disciplines including space engineering, material sciences, biomedical engineering, cell biology and mental health, with the primary objective of developing electrochemical measurement systems for accurate detection and treatment of stress-related conditions and disorders. His research involves: The design and development of biomonitoring devices and the use of electrodeposition and surface functionalisation techniques to create minimally invasive bioelectric devices designed to improve monitoring in human spaceflight, mental health and aged care settings; Biologically-inspired engineering strategies drawing cues from marine biology including mantis shrimps and sharks; Use of Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy techniques to improve wearable platforms capable of detecting metabolites, electrolytes and other clinically relevant targets.

In addition to his research, Michael teaches undergraduate and postgraduate students in the Schools of Aerospace, Mechanical and Mechatronic Engineering and Biomedical Engineering. In 2024 he was awarded the Faculty of Engineering Dean's Award for Tutoring. Michael previously held senior official roles at the World Health Organization Headquarters in Geneva and at the United Nations in New York. His health system delivery experience includes several years living and working in the Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea. Michael has also trained professionally as a cook in New Nordic cuisine under the head of pastry of Noma (Copenhagen) and has worked in several Michelin-starred restaurants