AI-assisted design of functional polymers

You will aim to integrate artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) into the design and optimisation of functional polymers with enhanced performance. By leveraging AI-driven predictive models, the research will accelerate the discovery of materials with tailored properties for critical applications such as energy storage and PFAS remediation. Polymer preparation and iterative re-design will be guided by insights generated from AI/ML algorithms, enabling a systematic and efficient approach to materials development.

This four-year PhD scholarship offers an exceptional opportunity to contribute to the advancement of innovative strategies for next-generation technologies. You will gain expertise at the interface of polymer chemistry, data science, and environmental and energy applications, positioning you to lead in the rapidly evolving field of AI-enabled materials design.

This multidisciplinary project will be conducted within the AIBN at UQ. AIBN has world-class laboratories, with a range of advanced characterisation facilities for preparing and characterising functional polymers to support the proposed research. In particular, the Nanomaterials Centre (Nanomac), Centre for Microscopy and Microanalysis (CMM), and the Queensland node of the Australian Nanofabrication Facility (ANFF-Q) together provide state-of-the-art facilities in materials and electrochemical characterisations. The proposal strongly aligns with a number of identified research strengths at UQ, including Materials Engineering (0912) and Macromolecular and Materials Chemistry (0303). The quality of the research in these areas at UQ is substantiated by the 2018 ERA rankings, where UQ scored above or well above world average (rating of 5 or 5 out of 5) in these disciplines, also areas in which this project will make a major contribution.

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 artificial intelligence and/or polymer science would be of benefit to someone working on this project.

You will demonstrate academic achievement in the fields of computing science, materials science, and engineering and the potential for scholastic success.

A background or knowledge of machine learning is highly desirable.

You must submit an expression of interest (EOI) by 25 February, 2026 25 February, 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 Associate Professor Cheng Zhang (c.zhang3@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: POLYMERS-ZHANG
4. Link to Scholarship Advertisement: https://study.uq.edu.au/study-options/phd-mphil-professional-doctorate/projects/ai-assisted-design-functional-polymers

Submit an EOI