Research at the CNIE is categorised using a matrix in which Application Areas link Themes based on underpinning fundamental mechanisms.

Currently five Application Areas are spanning the four themes and bridging different disciplines. Application Areas are:
(A1) Scalable manufacturing & process intensification,
(A2) Energy & environmental engineering,
(A3) Functional materials,
(A4) Biomedical & healthcare engineering
(A5) Architecture & built environment
The matrix approach is highly flexible and expandable. It enables us to transpose ideas into workable (engineering) solutions within different contexts relevant to applications.