PhD Scholarship in Rare Earth Element Recovery from Australian Mine Wastes Curtin University in Australia

Curtin University is advertising an RTP PhD scholarship opportunity in rare earth element recovery from Australian mine wastes. The project, titled “Unlocking Rare Earth Elements from Australian Mine Wastes for a Sustainable Future”, focuses on developing advanced approaches for recovering rare earth elements (REEs) from tailings storage facilities and other low-grade mine waste streams.

The research combines mineralogical characterisation, geochemistry, mineral processing, hydrometallurgy, and separation technologies to identify technically viable and economically scalable pathways for REE recovery. It also evaluates environmental performance, tailings stability, water quality, techno-economic feasibility, and lifecycle impacts, with a strong emphasis on sustainable mining, critical minerals, and circular resource recovery.

The ideal candidate should have a background in mining engineering, metallurgy, chemical engineering, or a related field. Experience in mineral processing, geochemistry, or tailings management is desirable. Applicants should be strong in experimental research, data interpretation, analytical thinking, and communication, and should be interested in sustainable mining and critical minerals research. The opportunity is open to both international and domestic applicants, and candidates must meet Curtin University PhD entry requirements.

Funding is described as an RTP scholarship for the preferred candidate, and the project also mentions an industry internship/placement opportunity with mining and resources companies. The deadline for the Expression of Interest is 31 July 2026.

To apply, submit an Expression of Interest to Dr Roohollah Shirani Faradonbeh using the provided EOI link and follow the Curtin graduate research application process.