Membrane and interface engineering for high-performance CO₂ electrolysers

Electrochemical conversion of carbon dioxide into valuable chemicals and fuels offers a promising pathway for sustainable manufacturing and carbon circularity.

However, membrane-related challenges including carbonate formation, ion crossover, water management and performance degradation continue to limit the efficiency and commercial deployment of CO₂ electrolysers.

This PhD project will investigate the role of membranes and membrane-electrode interfaces in advanced CO₂ electrolyser systems targeting the production of multicarbon (C₂+) products. 

You will explore ion transport mechanisms, membrane properties, interfacial phenomena and device architecture to improve carbon utilisation efficiency, energy efficiency and operational stability.

The project will combine electrochemical testing, membrane characterisation and electrolyser performance evaluation to develop next-generation membrane solutions for sustainable carbon conversion technologies. 

You will join the ARC Centre of Excellence GETCO2 within the School of Chemical Engineering at The University of Queensland.

You will have access to state-of-the-art electrochemical laboratories, electrolyser fabrication and testing facilities, advanced analytical instrumentation, and multidisciplinary expertise spanning electrochemistry, materials engineering, reaction engineering and carbon utilisation technologies.

The project provides opportunities for collaboration with leading national and international researchers working on carbon capture and utilisation, sustainable fuels and electrochemical manufacturing.

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 electrochemistry, membrane science, or transport phenomena would be of benefit to someone working on this project.

You will demonstrate academic achievement in the fields of chemical engineering, electrochemical engineering, chemistry, and/or materials engineering and the potential for scholastic success.

A background or knowledge of membrane materials, electrochemical systems, ion transport, materials characterisation or carbon utilisation technologies is highly desirable.

You must submit an expression of interest (EOI) by 4 July, 2026 4 July, 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 Dr Mike Tebyetekerwa (m.tebyetekerwa@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: ELECTROLYSERS-ZHANG
4. Link to Scholarship Advertisement: https://study.uq.edu.au/study-options/phd-mphil-professional-doctorate/projects/membrane-and-interface-engineering-high-performance-co2-electrolysers

Submit an EOI