The University of Queensland (UQ) is offering multiple fully funded PhD positions in the fields of PFAS remediation, advanced batteries, polymer electrolytes, and functional materials for environmental and energy applications. These positions are hosted within UQ’s Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology (AIBN), a globally recognized hub for interdisciplinary research, industry partnerships, and access to state-of-the-art laboratories. Successful candidates will join collaborative teams working on nationally and internationally funded research initiatives. Research areas include PFAS removal and destruction, advanced batteries and polymer electrolytes, and the development of functional polymers and materials for environmental and energy-based applications. One highlighted project focuses on designing novel surfactants to improve foam fractionation for removing persistent PFAS pollutants from contaminated water, combining colloid and interface science with engineering innovation to deliver scalable, low-energy treatment solutions. The research environment at AIBN provides access to the Nanomaterials Centre (Nanomac), Centre for Microscopy and Microanalysis (CMM), and the Australian Nanofabrication Facility—Queensland node (ANFF-Q), supporting advanced characterization, fabrication, and polymer development. UQ is renowned for excellence in Materials Engineering and Macromolecular Chemistry, both rated above world standard (ERA 5/5). The scholarship includes a tax-free living stipend of AUD $37,500 per year (2026 rate), full tuition fee coverage, and annual indexation, making these PhD positions fully funded and accessible to high-achieving candidates. Applicants should have a strong background in materials science and engineering, polymer chemistry, or environmental remediation. Experience with PFAS or environmental remediation is beneficial. Selection is competitive and considers academic excellence, publications, awards, and professional experience. To apply, submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) by January 18, 2026, confirm your eligibility for the PhD program, and prepare supporting documents. For project-specific queries, contact Associate Professor Cheng Zhang at [email protected]. In the EOI, complete the Scholarship/Sponsorship section with the project and scholarship code (PFAS-ZHANG). For more details, visit the provided links.

The University of Queensland (UQ) is offering multiple PhD and postdoctoral research opportunities in the areas of PFAS remediation, advanced battery materials, and functional polymers for environmental and energy applications. These positions are part of a dynamic and growing research program led by Associate Professor Cheng Zhang, a group leader specializing in polymer chemistry, PFAS remediation, energy storage, bioimaging, and therapeutics. PhD candidates will work on projects such as efficient PFAS removal from contaminated solids, advanced batteries and polymer electrolytes, and the development of functional polymers for environmental and energy solutions. The research involves designing and synthesizing novel surfactants to enhance foam fractionation for PFAS removal, integrating colloid and interface science with advanced water treatment engineering. The work is multidisciplinary, leveraging UQ's world-class laboratories and facilities, including the Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology (AIBN), Nanomaterials Centre, Centre for Microscopy and Microanalysis, and the Australian Nanofabrication Facility. Successful PhD applicants will receive a Research project scholarship covering a living stipend of $37,500 per annum (2026 rate, tax free, indexed annually) and full tuition fees. The research environment is highly collaborative, with strong industry engagement and involvement in nationally and internationally funded projects. Applicants should have a strong academic background in materials science, engineering, polymer chemistry, or environmental remediation, with demonstrated academic achievement and potential for scholastic success. Knowledge of PFAS and environmental remediation is highly desirable. To apply for the PhD positions, submit an expression of interest (EOI) by 18 January 2026, including all required documentation and scholarship details as specified in the advertisement. For postdoctoral opportunities, interested candidates should contact Associate Professor Cheng Zhang directly. For more information, visit the provided links or contact [email protected]. Keywords: PFAS remediation, polymer chemistry, advanced batteries, polymer electrolytes, functional polymers, materials science, environmental engineering, energy storage, bioimaging, therapeutics.

The University of Queensland (UQ) is offering multiple PhD and postdoctoral research opportunities in the areas of PFAS remediation, advanced battery materials, and functional polymers for environmental and energy applications. The research program is highly collaborative, with strong industry engagement and access to state-of-the-art facilities, including the Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology (AIBN), Nanomaterials Centre, Centre for Microscopy and Microanalysis, and the Australian Nanofabrication Facility. PhD projects include the development of novel surfactants to enhance foam fractionation for PFAS removal from contaminated water, as well as research on advanced batteries, polymer electrolytes, and functional materials. The work integrates colloid and interface science with advanced water treatment engineering, aiming to deliver scalable, low-energy solutions for environmental remediation. The research aligns with UQ’s strengths in Materials Engineering and Macromolecular and Materials Chemistry, both rated above world average. Applicants should have a strong background in materials science, chemical engineering, or related fields, with knowledge of polymer chemistry and environmental remediation considered advantageous. Selection is competitive and based on academic record, publications, honors, and employment history. The PhD project is supported by a Research project scholarship, offering a living stipend of $37,500 per annum (2026 rate, tax free, indexed annually) and full tuition coverage. Postdoctoral funding details are not specified. To apply, submit an expression of interest (EOI) for the PhD program by 18 January, 2026, including the required scholarship and project details. For further information or to discuss suitability, contact Associate Professor Cheng Zhang at [email protected]. More details can be found on the UQ project page.