Advanced electrolyser design for efficient CO₂ conversion to multicarbon (C₂+) products

The electrochemical conversion of carbon dioxide into valuable multicarbon (C₂+) chemicals offers a promising pathway for sustainable chemical manufacturing and carbon utilisation.

Despite significant advances in catalyst development, achieving industrially relevant performance remains challenging due to limitations in reactor design, mass transport, carbon utilisation efficiency and long-term operational stability.

This PhD project will focus on the design and optimisation of advanced CO₂ electrolyser systems for efficient production of high-value multicarbon products such as ethylene, ethanol and acetate.

You will investigate the interactions between catalyst layers, gas diffusion electrodes, flow fields and operating conditions to identify design strategies that maximise product selectivity and energy efficiency.

The project will involve experimental development and testing of electrolyser architectures, combined with electrochemical characterisation and performance analysis. 

You will join the ARC GETCO2 Research Centre within the School of Chemical Engineering at The University of Queensland.

You will have access to state-of-the-art electrochemical laboratories, electrolyser fabrication and testing facilities, advanced analytical instrumentation, and multidisciplinary expertise spanning electrochemistry, materials engineering, reaction engineering and carbon utilisation technologies.

The project provides opportunities for collaboration with leading national and international researchers working on carbon capture and utilisation, sustainable fuels and electrochemical manufacturing.

This project is supported by the Research project scholarship.

Learn more about the Research project scholarship.

Your application will be assessed on a competitive basis.

We take into account your:

• previous academic record
• publication record
• honours and awards
• employment history.

A working knowledge of electrochemistry, chemical reaction engineering, or transport phenomena would be of benefit to someone working on this project.

You will demonstrate academic achievement in the fields of chemical engineering, electrochemical engineering, chemistry, and/or materials engineering and the potential for scholastic success.

A background or knowledge of electrochemical systems, catalysis, reactor design, multiphase transport processes, or carbon utilisation technology is highly desirable.

You must submit an expression of interest (EOI) by 4 July, 2026 4 July, 2026.

Before you apply

1. Check your eligibility for the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD).
2. Prepare your documentation.
3. If you have any questions about whether the project is suitable for your research interests, contact Dr Mike Tebyetekerwa (m.tebyetekerwa@uq.edu.au).

When you apply

To apply, submit an expression of interest (EOI) for the program. You don't need to apply separately for the project or scholarship. How to submit an EOI

In your EOI, complete the ‘Scholarship/Sponsorship’ section with the following details:

1. Are you applying for an advertised project: 'Yes'
2. Project: 'Research project scholarship'
3. Scholarship Code Listed in the Advertisement: MULTICARBON-ZHANG
4. Link to Scholarship Advertisement: https://study.uq.edu.au/study-options/phd-mphil-professional-doctorate/projects/advanced-electrolyser-design-efficient-co2-conversion-multicarbon-c2-products

Submit an EOI