Project summary
- Program
- PhD
- Location
- St Lucia
- Research area
- Chemical sciences, Engineering
Project description
This project aims to work with Chemours and qldwater to develop a magnetic ion-exchange technology capable of removing per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), or forever chemicals, from complex sources.
PFAS contamination is a significant health and environmental issue in Australia, yet current remediation methods are often limited, particularly when co-contaminants are present.
This project seeks to address these challenges by creating a robust PFAS removal technology tailored for complex water matrices. Expected outcomes include an integrated solution with proven technical, economic, and environmental benefits. This innovative approach will contribute to a PFAS-free future, safeguarding Australia’s environment and public health.
Research environment
The research will be conducted within AIBN, UQ, which provide outstanding infrastructure for materials characterisation and ultra-trace PFAS analysis.
The project is fully resourced through an active ARC fellowship grant, covering equipment, consumables, and computational needs.
You will be provided with a dedicated workstation, specialised software, laboratory access, and a supportive HDR research culture.
The project aligns strongly with AIBN’s strategic priority in Nanoengineered Materials and its focus on translation and commercialisation of PFAS remediation technologies.
Scholarship
This is an Fellowship support scheme scholarship project that aligns with a recently awarded Australian Government grant.
The scholarship includes:
- living stipend of $37,500 per annum tax free (2026 rate), indexed annually
- your tuition fees covered.
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 polymer chemistry and/or water treatment would be of benefit to someone working on this project.
You will demonstrate academic achievement in the field of materials science and the potential for scholastic success.
A background or knowledge of chemistry and/or molecular dynamics simulation is highly desirable.
How to apply
This project requires candidates to commence no later than Research Quarter 3, 2027. 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 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:
- Are you applying for an advertised project: 'Yes'
- Project: 'Fellowship project scholarship'
- Scholarship Code Listed in the Advertisement: FLUORINATED-ZHANG
- Link to Scholarship Advertisement: https://study.uq.edu.au/study-options/phd-mphil-professional-doctorate/projects/efficient-removing-fluorinated-pollution-complex-contaminated-matrices