Efficient PFAS removal from contaminated solids

You will aim to develop novel surfactants to significantly enhance the efficiency of foam fractionation for the removal of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) from contaminated water. Foam fractionation leverages the strong surface activity of PFAS to separate and concentrate them from bulk water into a foam phase, enabling cost-effective treatment. However, its application in complex and “dirty” water matrices is often limited by competing organic matter and other contaminants that interfere with the process.

To address this challenge, the project will design and synthesise new surfactants tailored to promote selective enrichment of PFAS, improve foam stability, and enable robust operation under real-world conditions. By integrating fundamental insights in colloid and interface science with advanced water treatment engineering, this work will deliver a scalable, low-energy approach to PFAS remediation.

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 PFAS, environmental remediation would be of benefit to someone working on this project.

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

A background or knowledge of polymer chemistry and materials science is highly desirable.

You must submit an expression of interest (EOI) by 18 January, 2026 18 January, 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: PFAS-ZHANG
4. Link to Scholarship Advertisement: https://study.uq.edu.au/study-options/phd-mphil-professional-doctorate/projects/efficient-pfas-removal-contaminated-solids

Submit an EOI