Griffith takes drone technology underwater as it backs next generation

Artificial intelligence-powered underwater robots that could change the way marine life and underwater infrastructure are monitored are being developed with Griffith University researchers on the Gold Coast, as the university backs Global Drone Show 2026.

The university is combining cutting-edge robotics research with an effort to inspire the next generation of engineers, drone pilots and technology specialists through its support of the event’s Future Careers Day.

Taking drone technology underwater

Griffith researcher Dr Zhe Hou is working on underwater robotic technology that uses artificial intelligence to help recognise objects and marine life beneath the surface, opening up opportunities for environmental monitoring and inspections in locations that can be difficult or dangerous for divers.

At a Gold Coast media opportunity, Dr Hou will showcase an underwater drone and explain how this technology could be used in the real world.

Dr Hou said the research showed how quickly robotics and artificial intelligence were changing work on and beneath the water.

“We are developing ways for underwater robots to do more than simply capture pictures. By helping them recognise what they are seeing, we can collect useful information about marine environments and underwater structures.”

— Dr Zhe Hou, Griffith University

“That has potential benefits for researchers, industry and the people responsible for protecting our waterways. It is also a great example of the exciting careers opening up in robotics and artificial intelligence,” Dr Hou said.

Inspiring the next generation of drone innovators

Griffith University is the presenting partner of Future Careers Day at Global Drone Show 2026, to be held at Cbus Super Stadium in Robina on Friday 13 November.

The three-hour program, delivered with Defence Kidz, will give school students hands-on experience with coding challenges, flight simulators and drone demonstrations, while showing how the technology can be used to find missing people, detect bushfires and protect the environment.

Griffith University Vice President (Industry and External Engagement), Professor Bronwyn Harch, said the day would help students connect their interests with future jobs.

“A student who enjoys science, coding or solving problems could become an engineer, a drone developer or someone designing the next generation of robots.”

— Professor Bronwyn Harch, Griffith University

“We want them to meet people doing those jobs, see what is possible and understand how to get there,” Professor Harch said.

Showcasing Gold Coast innovation on a global stage

Global Drone Show Chief Executive Leanne St George said Griffith’s partnership would put local innovation and local career opportunities in the spotlight.

“When you see researchers on the Gold Coast working with underwater drones and artificial intelligence, you realise these are not jobs of the distant future. They are already here.”

— Leanne St George, Chief Executive, Global Drone Show

“That is why Griffith’s support for Future Careers Day matters. We want young people to get their hands on the technology, meet the people working in these fields and see a pathway from the classroom into a real career,” Ms St George said.

“Global Drone Show is bringing global brands to the Gold Coast, but it is just as important to showcase the work happening in our own backyard and the opportunities it creates for the next generation.”

Global Drone Show runs from 11–13 November at Cbus Super Stadium, with demonstrations and discussions spanning agriculture, emergency response, aviation, mining and entertainment.