Development of polymer-inorganic hybrid materials for advanced applications

Hybrid inorganic-organic materials have important applications in energy, environmental and health technologies. Sequential infiltration synthesis (SIS) of polymers is a recently introduced approach to preparing such hybrid structures. However, advancement in the field is hampered by a lack of fundamental understanding of the mechanisms of interactions of SIS molecules with polymers, and the narrow range of polymers studied so far.

This PhD project aims to build a fundamental framework for the development of SIS through systematic studies of interactions of polymers and SIS molecules. Expected outcomes include new methods for constructing nanostructures using functional polymers and novel fabrication processes exploiting polymer self-assembly.

You will gain experience in the fields of nanotechnology, polymer chemistry, hybrid materials and the manufacture of nanodevices.

This is an Earmarked scholarship project that aligns with a recently awarded Australian Government grant.

The scholarship includes:

• living stipend of $32,192 per annum tax free (2023 rate), indexed annually
• your tuition fees covered
• single overseas student health cover (OSHC).

Learn more about the Earmarked scholarship.

Your application will be assessed on a competitive basis. We take into account your:

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

A working knowledge of polymer chemistry would be beneficial. A background or knowledge of materials science is highly desirable.

You'll demonstrate academic achievement in the field(s) of chemistry and the potential for scholastic success.

This project requires candidates to commence no later than Research Quarter 2, 2024. To allow time for your application to be processed, we recommend applying no later than 31 December, 2023 30 September, 2023.

You can start in an earlier research quarter. See application dates.

Before you apply

1. Check your eligibility for the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD).
2. Prepare your documentation.
3. Contact Professor Andrew Whittaker (a.whittaker@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.

Apply now