This project is closed.
Project summary
- Program
- PhD
- Location
- Dutton Park
- Research area
- Chemical sciences, Environmental sciences
Project description
The aim of this project is to understand the presence of persistent chemicals in recyclable and compostable food contact materials (FCMs). These types of products are destined for recycling or biowaste streams that bridge the gap from take-make-dispose and into a circular economy. Currently, the knowledge of the chemicals in these products is limited but we need to ensure that they are safe and do not unnecessarily contaminate resource recovery streams. This project will develop a framework that could be used by industry and government to prevent chemicals of concern persisting in a circular economy, providing environmental and economic benefits through reduced risk of chemical exposure and unnecessary remediation costs.
Research environment
QAEHS is internationally recognized for research excellence in the environmental sciences with an output ratio of 1.86 and 1.77 against world and Australia averages. The centre has established state-of-the-art sampling, analysis and archiving facilities located at the Pharmacy Australia Centre of Excellence. Maintaining 7x Liquid Chromatography Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS) and 5x Gas Chromatography (GC-MS) instruments. QAEHS’ analytical capabilities are leading in the Southern Hemisphere with a dedicated trace analytical laboratory and state-of-the-art instrumentation. The student will join a cohort of HDR students researching human and environmental exposure to environmental contaminants.
Scholarship
This is an Earmarked scholarship project that aligns with a recently awarded Australian Government grant.
The scholarship includes:
- living stipend of $35,000 per annum tax free (2024 rate), indexed annually
- your tuition fees covered
- single overseas student health cover (OSHC).
Learn more about the Earmarked scholarship.
Supervisor
Principal supervisor
Preferred educational background
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 environmental science, and analytical chemistry would be of benefit to someone working on this project.
You will demonstrate academic achievement in the field/s of environmental science, and analytical chemistry and the potential for scholastic success.
A background or knowledge of chemistry is highly desirable.
How to apply
This project requires candidates to commence no later than Research Quarter 1, 2025. To allow time for your application to be processed, we recommend applying no later than 30 September, 2024 30 June, 2024.
You can start in an earlier research quarter. See application dates.
Before you apply
- Check your eligibility for the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD).
- Prepare your documentation.
- Contact Associate Professor Sarit Kaserzon (k.sarit@uq.edu.au) to discuss your interest and suitability.
When you apply
You apply for this scholarship when you submit an application for a PhD. You don’t need to submit a separate scholarship application.
In your application ensure that under the ‘Scholarships and collaborative study’ section you select:
- My higher degree is not collaborative
- I am applying for, or have been awarded a scholarship or sponsorship
- UQ Earmarked Scholarship type.