Christopher Barner-Kowollik

This PhD scholarship at Queensland University of Technology (QUT) offers an exciting opportunity to undertake innovative research in the theory and modelling of action plots in photochemistry. The project aims to understand the fundamental mismatch between photochemical reactivity and molecular absorptivity, a phenomenon with the potential to shift established paradigms in photochemistry. The research will involve advanced computer modelling methods and techniques, including molecular dynamics, density-functional theory, and multi-scale modelling, within the fields of theoretical and computational chemistry. As a scholarship recipient, you will join a collaborative team led by Dr Xiuwen Zhou and Dr Joshua Carroll in the School of Chemistry and Physics, and work closely with Distinguished Professor Christopher Barner-Kowollik as part of an Australian Research Council (ARC) funded project. The team environment provides opportunities for interdisciplinary research and professional development. The scholarship includes a generous stipend of $37,010 per annum (tax exempt, indexed annually) for up to 3.5 years, with the possibility of a six-month extension if approved. Additionally, a tuition fee offset/sponsorship covers the cost of tuition for up to four full-time equivalent years of doctoral study. This comprehensive funding package supports your academic journey and research activities. Eligibility requirements include meeting QUT's Doctor of Philosophy entry criteria, including English language proficiency, enrolling as a full-time internal student (unless special approval is granted), and holding a Master of Science or a Bachelor of Science with honours. Applicants should demonstrate a passion for multidisciplinary research and possess a background in computational/theoretical chemistry, computational condensed-matter physics, or a closely related field. To apply, email Dr Xiuwen Zhou with your academic and research background, motivation for research in this field, and your CV. If supported, you will submit an expression of interest (EOI) for QUT's Doctor of Philosophy, nominating Dr Zhou as your principal supervisor and including the scholarship link in the financial details section. Applications close on 31 March 2026. This opportunity is ideal for candidates seeking to advance their expertise in photochemistry and computational modelling, and to contribute to cutting-edge research in a supportive and dynamic academic environment.