Sustainable production and processing of advanced materials for energy applications

Two-dimensional (2D) and other advanced functional materials have significant potential in membranes, electronics, and electrochemical energy technologies. 

However, their practical application requires scalable, reproducible, and sustainable approaches for materials synthesis and processing. 

This project will develop advanced nanoscale and porous materials using scalable fabrication and processing strategies and investigate their structure–property relationships and functional performance. 

Particular emphasis will be placed on membrane and electrochemical energy applications, with the aim of enabling sustainable materials manufacturing and future technology translation.

You will work within the University of Queensland’s Dow Centre for Sustainable Engineering Innovation, in close collaboration with GrapheneX, an Australian nanotechnology company focused on translating advanced materials research into commercial applications. 

The Dow Centre provides a multidisciplinary research environment with advanced facilities for materials synthesis, processing, characterisation, membrane fabrication, and process development. 

Through this academia–industry partnership, the project benefits from strong industrial relevance, practical manufacturing perspectives, and opportunities for technology translation. 

GrapheneX’s expertise in advanced materials and technology development complements the Dow Centre’s research capabilities, providing an ideal environment for developing scalable and sustainable functional materials for membrane, energy, and other emerging applications.

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 engineering science would be of benefit to someone working on this project.

You will demonstrate academic achievement in the fields of Chemical engineering and/or environmental science and the potential for scholastic success.

A background or knowledge of polymer synthesis, nanomaterials synthesis, and/or materials characterisation is highly desirable.

You must submit an expression of interest (EOI) by 1 September, 2026 1 September, 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 Jindi Yang (jindi.yang@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: ENERGY-YANG
4. Link to Scholarship Advertisement: https://study.uq.edu.au/study-options/phd-mphil-professional-doctorate/projects/sustainable-production-and-processing-advanced-materials-energy-applications

Submit an EOI