Dr Li Li is an ARC Industry Fellow (IM) and Associate Professor at Gulbali Research Institute, Charles Sturt University (CSU). She also holds an Honorary Associate Professor and group leader position at Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, The University of Queensland (UQ). She received her PhD in Chemical Engineering from China University of Petroleum.

She leads a research program on Programmable Biomineral Composites for Precision Therapeutics and Sustainable Agriculture at CSU and UQ. The Advanced Programmable Biominerals Group stands out for its innovative integration of precision nanotechnology with real-world applications in healthcare and agriculture. Our unique approach centers on the precision assembly of polymers and mineral nanoparticles to create advanced, responsive biomineral composites. By developing smart delivery systems for drugs, pesticides, and fertilizers, we address critical challenges and contribute to advancements in both medical treatments and agricultural productivity.

In healthcare, our research seeks to develop cutting-edge solutions for targeted drug/gene/protein delivery and controlled release systems. These nanocomposites are designed to respond to specific physiological environments to overcome the biological barriers, providing exceptional precision in therapeutic applications. This approach enhances treatment efficacy while minimizing side effects, particularly for cancer and infectious disease.

In agriculture, our focus is on creating smart delivery systems for RNAi, pesticides, fertilizers to improve efficiency and sustainability. By utilizing these advanced biominerals, we promote soil health, enhance crop yield, and reduce environmental impact. Our innovative solutions address critical challenges in modern agriculture, contributing significantly to food security and environmental sustainability.

Research Area: Functional biominerals for precision delivery and sustainable release in sustainable agriculture and crop protection

• Functional biomineral nanoparticles precision nanomedicine: Engineering biomineral materials with responsive polymers and cell membranes for targeted, high-precision applications in crop protection and healthcare, aiming to improve the specificity and effectiveness of treatments.
• Smart RNA-based technologies for Healthcare and Agriculture: Creating innovative RNA-based tools, such as RNA interference (RNAi) for crop protection and RNA therapeutics, to enhance resilience in plants and animals, supporting both agricultural productivity and health.
• Precision mucosal delivery of drugs and vaccines in animal and human health: Developing biomineral nanocomposites to deliver drugs and vaccines via mucosal routes, enhancing immune responses in animals and humans for comprehensive health protection.
• Slow-release biomineral technologies for sustainable agriculture: Biomineral-based slow-release formulations to ensure consistent and efficient nutrient and pesticide delivery, aiming to reduce runoff, enhance soil health, and promote nutrient availability over time.
• Programmable biominerals for biowaste conversions: Developing programmable biominerals to convert agricultural and industrial biowaste into valuable resources, such as biofertilizers and soil amendments, thus supporting circular economy practices in agriculture.

2024-current   Member of the Australian Infectious Disease (AID) Society

2023-current   Member of the Australian Materials Research Society

2023-current   Member of Control Release Society

2019-current   Member of the Royal Australian Chemical Institute (RACI)

2017-current   Member of the Wilston Churchill Foundation

2015-current   Member of Women in Technology (WiT)

2005-current   Australian Research Council Nanotechnology Network

2014-2015       Member of Franklin Women