Nanoarchitectured anti-corrosion coatings for zinc-plated steel

Zinc-plated steel is widely used in buildings, households, and vehicles, but its long-term performance is limited due to corrosion resulting from exposure to high humidity or alkaline conditions. Currently, available chromium coatings are toxic, while polymeric coatings lack durability.

This project aims to use nanotechnology to develop highly effective, multifunctional anti-corrosive coatings in which long-term protection is achieved by controlling the wettability and self-healing properties.

The applicant needs to have expertise in developing and characterizing inorganic nanomaterials, especially porous silica nanoparticles. Expertise in corrosion testing is highly desirable.

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 taking into account your:

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

Working knowledge of corrosion areas including stress corrosion cracking, corrosion mechanisms, and atmospheric corrosion to understand the long-term corrosion resistance performance and protection mechanisms of coating materials through corrosion testing will be beneficial.

You'll demonstrate academic achievement in inorganic nanomaterials and the potential for scholastic success.

A background or knowledge of synthesis of inorganic nanomaterials, especially mesoporous silica nanoparticles and their characterization is highly desirable.

This project requires candidates to commence no later than Research Quarter 1, 2024. To allow time for your application to be processed, we recommend applying no later than 30 September, 2023 30 June, 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 Nasim Amiralian (n.amiralian@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