Project summary
- Program
- PhD
- Location
- St Lucia
- Research area
- Chemical sciences
Project description
Every aspect of our lives depends on computer chips. They are the drivers of our computers, motor vehicles and appliances. The integrated circuit is a core component of these chips and is arguably the most transformative innovation of the past century. Since their invention over 60 years ago, integrated circuits have continually become faster and can carry more information, thanks to impressive advances in materials science and engineering. However, these advances are threatened by the increasing complexity of the methods of manufacture and the ballooning cost of production. This project aims to develop new methods of manufacturing of circuits through innovations in polymer chemistry, leading to more cost-effective manufacturing processes and enabling continued advances in integrated circuit technology. The project will be in partnership with TEL Technology Center America, one of the largest manufacturers of equipment for computer chip production. Supervisors will be Prof Andrew Whittaker, A/Prof Idriss Blakey and Dr Hui Peng.
Research environment
This project will be conducted in the modern laboratories of the Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology. Advanced synthesis, characterisation and testing facilities are available. Our partners, TEL Technology Center America actively participate in the project, assisting with testing and advanced patterning. The PhD student will be part of the team working on lithographic polymers within the AIBN Polymer Group, and benefit from a stimulating and supportive scientific environment.
Scholarship
This is an Fellowship support scheme scholarship project that aligns with a recently awarded Australian Government grant.
The scholarship includes:
- living stipend of $36,400 per annum tax free (2025 rate), indexed annually
- your tuition fees covered
- single overseas student health cover (OSHC).
Learn more about the Fellowship support scheme 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 chemistry and laboratory experience in polymer synthesis and characterisation would be of benefit to someone working on this project.
You will demonstrate academic achievement in the field/s of chemistry and the potential for scholastic success.
A background or knowledge of materials science is highly desirable.
How to apply
This project requires candidates to commence no later than Research Quarter 3, 2026. You can start in an earlier research quarter.
You must submit an expression of interest (EOI) by the closing date for the research quarter (RQ) you want to start in:
Before you apply
- Check your eligibility for the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD).
- Prepare your documentation.
- If you have any questions about whether the project is suitable for your research interests, contact Professor Andrew Whittaker (a.whittaker@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:
- Are you applying for an advertised project: 'Yes'
- Project: 'Fellowship project scholarship'
- Scholarship Code Listed in the Advertisement: WHITTAKER-150825
- Link to Scholarship Advertisement: https://study.uq.edu.au/study-options/phd-mphil-professional-doctorate/projects/developing-new-polymeric-materials-manufacture-computer-chips