The University of Queensland
6 days ago
Research project scholarship
PhD in Engineering Next-Generation Nanocatalysts for Solar-Driven Methanol Production The University of Queensland in Australia
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Chemistry
Funding
Research project scholarship includes a living stipend of $39,220 per annum tax free (2026 rate, indexed annually), tuition fees covered, and Single Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC).
Deadline
Sep 3, 2027
Country
Australia
University
The University of Queensland

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About this position
PhD opportunity at The University of Queensland in the School of Chemical Engineering, focused on engineering next-generation nanocatalysts for solar-driven production of methanol.
The project targets the conversion of CO2 and CO from industrial emissions and by-products into methanol and related fuels via a photothermal pathway. Research will involve nanomaterials synthesis, catalyst design, and advanced characterisation to build robust structure–activity relationships.
Students will gain hands-on experience with techniques and facilities including XRD, HAADF-STEM, EELS, XAS, XPS, UV-Vis, Raman, photoluminescence, flame spray pyrolysis, atomic layer deposition, solvothermal reactors, colloidal synthesis, and access to UQ facilities plus Australian Synchrotron/ANSTO beamtime.
This is a PhD project at St Lucia, Australia, supported by the Research project scholarship. Funding includes a tax-free stipend of $39,220 per annum (2026 rate, indexed annually), tuition fees covered, and Single Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC).
Preferred background includes materials chemistry, chemical engineering, or nanotechnology. Beneficial experience includes nanomaterials synthesis, heterogeneous catalysis, catalyst characterisation, and reaction mechanistic investigation. Applications are assessed competitively based on academic record, publications, honours/awards, and employment history.
Apply by submitting an expression of interest (EOI) by 2027-09-03. In the EOI, indicate that you are applying for an advertised project, list the project as Research project scholarship, and use scholarship code NANOCATALYST-LU. Contact Dr Haijiao Lu at [email protected] with questions about suitability.
Funding details
Research project scholarship includes a living stipend of $39,220 per annum tax free (2026 rate, indexed annually), tuition fees covered, and Single Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC).
What's required
Applicants are assessed competitively based on academic record, publication record, honours and awards, and employment history. A working knowledge of nanomaterials synthesis (including colloidal synthesis, atomic layer deposition, and solvothermal methods) and heterogeneous catalysis would be beneficial. Candidates should demonstrate academic achievement in materials chemistry, chemical engineering, or nanotechnology, with potential for scholastic success. Knowledge of catalyst characterisation techniques and reaction mechanistic investigation is highly desirable.
How to apply
Submit an expression of interest (EOI) for the PhD program by 3 September 2027. In the Scholarship/Sponsorship section, select 'Yes' for advertised project, enter 'Research project scholarship' as the project, and use scholarship code NANOCATALYST-LU. Contact Dr Haijiao Lu if you have questions about fit.
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