Future Arts, Science and Technology Laboratory
Chaos Theory in Practice
Our Story
Future Arts, Science and Technology Lab
Founded by Professors Paul Egglestone and Mario Minichiello, FASTlab emerged from a shared vision: to break free from traditional academic silos and create a space where technology, design, and social impact collide.
At FASTlab, we specialise in the space where research meets the real world. Bridging the gap between academia and industry, we lead in applied research, research translation, and commercialisation — turning bold ideas into scalable solutions that deliver measurable social, environmental, and economic impact.
We know the world’s toughest challenges — inequality, sustainability, and the demands of a rapidly changing digital landscape — can’t be solved with traditional, linear thinking. That’s why FASTlab champions applied chaos: a human-centred, transdisciplinary approach blending creativity, play, and rigorous research to drive innovation.
Our team of researchers, designers, innovators, and commercialisation specialists works at the frontline of industry-academic collaboration. We also draw on the expertise of our FASTlab Luminaries — an international network of leading scholars, creative practitioners, and industry experts who provide strategic insight and thought leadership across all our initiatives.
By fusing science, technology, art, and deep community engagement, FASTlab ensures every breakthrough is both human-centred and commercially viable — creating solutions that work and last.
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We have a proven track record in securing competitive funding and helping researchers navigate commercialisation challenges. Our cross-sector network spans technology, health, creative industries, and sustainability.
Your Partner for Winning AEA Grants
The Australian Economic Accelerator (AEA) Innovate grants are designed to turn Australia’s world-class research into commercial, societal, and global impact.
FASTlab helps researchers across disciplines shape compelling, fundable proposals aligned to AEA’s mission.
We offer:
Strategic alignment advice — ensure your proposal fits AEA’s funding objectives.
Impact articulation — we craft clear pathways to commercialisation, societal benefit, and industry engagement.
Partnership brokering — connect with industry, government, and community stakeholders.
Proposal development — from pitch design to full application writing support.
Post-award support — scaling, reporting, and further funding strategies..
FAQ's
AEA + InnovateIQ
About Innovate IQ
Innovate IQ is FASTlab’s premium service line helping researchers move from concept to real-world impact.
From opportunity scanning to full proposal development, Innovate IQ supports projects at every stage of commercialisation readiness.
Our AEA Innovate IQ package is a flagship offering designed specifically to support applicants for the Australian Economic Accelerator (AEA) Innovate grants — combining Innovate IQ’s full suite of services into a tailored, high-impact package.
Q: What is AEA Innovate?
The Australian Economic Accelerator (AEA) Innovate grants fund projects ready to move from research to commercial or societal application. They support activities like prototype development, market testing, and industry engagement.
Q: Who can apply?
Researchers employed by Australian universities and eligible research organisations whose work aligns with national priority areas and is ready to progress beyond discovery.
Q: What if I’m not sure if my project is eligible?
That’s exactly what our Readiness Assessment is for. Book a Discovery Call and we’ll help evaluate your eligibility and project fit.
Q: Can FASTlab help if I’ve already started my application?
Yes. Whether you need a review of your draft or full proposal development, we can tailor our support to your current stage.
Q: Does FASTlab only work with university researchers?
No — we also work with research-active businesses, Not For Profits, and collaborative teams seeking to apply or partner on AEA applications.
Q: How much does the support cost?
We’re committed to supporting high-potential projects and can offer hybrid pricing structures where our success is tied to yours. This way, unlike general grant writing services, FASTlab’s IQ model delivers a complete funding and impact strategy — increasing your chances of success and helping secure commercial pathways that extend beyond the grant itself.
Q: Can universities cover the cost of FASTlab’s services?
Yes. Many universities allocate funding for grant support and proposal development. We can also work directly with research offices to become a preferred provider.
Q: What happens after I submit my application?
If awarded, FASTlab offers post-award support to help with scaling, reporting, and accessing future funding rounds.
Interested in applying for AEA Innovate?
Book a Discovery Call
A free consultation to discuss your AEA project concept, goals, and funding readiness.
Meet FASTlab's Founders
Professor Paul Egglestone
Professor Paul Egglestone is an internationally recognized leader, visionary academic, and innovator at the forefront of integrating arts, science, and technology. As the founder and director of FASTLab (Future Arts, Science and Technology Laboratory) Paul has redefined how collaborative research and innovation create meaningful societal impact. His ability to unite technologists, content creators, and communities has established him as a transformative figure in the field.
A Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts, the Hunter Medical Research Institute, and the Central Coast Research Institute, his global contributions are celebrated for driving progress across disciplines.
Throughout his career, Paul has demonstrated a unique strategic vision, exemplified by the establishment of groundbreaking initiatives such as the Media Innovation Studio and the Civic Drone Centre
His leadership in developing FASTLab reflects a commitment to innovation, guiding its evolution into a hub for transformational research on human behavior, transmedia arts, and technology’s role in society.
Paul’s legacy of empowering teams, nurturing partnerships, and championing practical solutions continues to inspire students, researchers, and industry professionals alike. From fostering collaborations with global organizations - from the BBC to Google - to producing over 70 broadcast documentary programs, his work is a testament to the power of visionary leadership in shaping the future of knowledge and innovation.
Mario’s career is marked by a unique ability to bridge art and storytelling. As a visual journalist, he has reported on significant global events, from the Afghanistan war to the Spycatcher Trials, with his work featured in prominent outlets such as the BBC, The Guardian, and The Times. His approach to illustration—what he describes as “slow food, wave after wave of observation”—has not only shaped his practice but also influenced the field of visual journalism. He is the co-author of the seminal book Reportage Illustration: Visual Journalism, which explores the power of illustration to connect people with news and current affairs in profound ways.
As a Professor of Design and Creative Arts, Mario has held leadership roles at institutions including Loughborough University, Birmingham City University, and the University of Newcastle (NSW). His academic work focuses on using visual communication tools—such as design, animation, film, and visual effects—to translate research into real-world impact. He has collaborated with world-leading organizations, including Birmingham Children’s Hospital (UK) and the Hunter Medical Research Institute, to prototype and visualize innovative ideas that drive change. His work in human-centered AI and creative technologies reflects his commitment to shaping the next industrial revolution in ways that enhance human creativity and well-being.
A prolific author and researcher, Mario has published numerous books, journal articles, and creative outputs, while also developing intellectual property that bridges art, design, and technology. His passion for collaboration and his ability to open doors—both literally and figuratively—have made him a sought-after partner for impactful projects across industry, government, and academia.
Mario’s vision for FASTlab is rooted in the belief that creativity and innovation thrive at the intersection of disciplines. Through his work, he continues to push boundaries, inspire teams, and create solutions that resonate on both local and global scales.
Internationally Acclaimed Political Artist, Illustrator, and Designer, Professor Mario Minichiello is an award-winning practitioner, academic, and co-founder of FASTlab. With over three decades of experience spanning industry and academia, Mario has established himself as a leading figure in visual communication, design, and illustration. His work, celebrated globally, tackles contemporary issues with striking poignancy and depth, earning him recognition as “one of Britain’s most skilled, perceptive, and provocative illustrators” by Visual Culture in Britain journal.
Professor Mario Minichiello
What We Do
Why We're Different
Unlike traditional research labs, we don’t just innovate for people; we innovate with them. Our participatory design process ensures that the voices of communities, governments, and industries are integral to every solution we create. By fusing STEM disciplines with art and human-centered design, we offer a unique approach to addressing complex global challenges.
Key Achievements
FASTlab has a proven track record of impact and innovation. Some of our key milestones include:
Our Services
Introducing the IQ Suite from FASTlab — a powerful collection of services designed to accelerate your business’s impact, foster collaboration, and turn vision into reality.
From driving innovation and aligning mission with action to navigating change and enhancing sustainability, each offering is crafted to help your organization thrive in today’s dynamic landscape.
FASTlab IQ empowers you to harness strategic intelligence for meaningful, lasting results. Let’s collaborate to shape the future together.
ImpactIQ
Navigate the Future of ESG with Intelligence and Impact
MissionIQ
Aligning Purpose with Action for Lasting Impact
RAPID
A competitive R&D sprint to ideate and deliver an MVP
InnovateIQ
Turn your ideas into Lasting Impact
CollabIQ
Effective Collaboration for Better Outcomes
AccelerateIQ
Fast-Tracking your Path to Market Impact
ChangeIQ
Navigating Change with Strategic Insight for Lasting Transorfmation
News
Projects
Explore Our Work
Discover the diverse range of projects and partnerships that focus on real-world problem-solving and innovation. From cutting-edge technology applications to community-driven initiatives, our projects aim to create positive impacts and address complex global challenges.
Aknowledgement
