PhD Research Scholarship in Mineral Carbonation

The School of Chemical Engineering

The School of Chemical Engineering is an international leader in the chemical engineering field and has an excellent international reputation which has been built over four decades at the University. With 35 academic staff, including 17 professors, the School provides quality programs and leadership in chemical engineering education, research and development, and expert consulting to support the process industries.

UQ Chemical Engineering was ranked in the top 16 worldwide in the 2012 QS subject rankings for chemical engineering and was the top ranking school in Australia. It was also given the highest score awarded for chemical engineering in Australia in the recent ERA study.

Information about the Faculty and the School may be accessed on the Faculty's web site at http://www.uq.edu.au/eait.

The role

The PhD candidate will join a multi-disciplinary team of chemical engineers and chemists to explore a novel process concept for converting waste residues (tailings) from various mineral processing operations into mineral carbonates.  This solves multiple problems:  the waste is more stable for storage, the waste is locking away CO2 which would have ended up in the atmosphere, and the mineral processes are more sustainable because chemicals used are being regenerated.  While the concept has been established it is necessary to examine the viability of each step, to troubleshoot, and to redefine the process steps where necessary.  The PhD candidate will present their findings to both the industrial and academic communities and will be expected to articulate their findings in peer reviewed journal publications. 

After completion of their studies, the PhD candidate will have expertise in the field of process development and will have developed critical thinking skills. They could be expected to take a research and development position within industry.     

The person

Applicants should have an undergraduate chemical engineering degree (or related discipline), or a chemistry degree (or related discipline).  Relevant industry experience is desirable.

Remuneration

The stipend is valued at AUD $27,000 per year tax free for 3 years with the opportunity to increase based on successful completion of agreed milestones and with the possibility of an additional 6 month extension.  Both Australian and International applicants are welcome.

Position Description

 499291_3018201_PhD Research Scholarship in Mineral Carbonation.pdf

Enquiries

To discuss this role please contact Dr Karen Steel on +61 7 3365 3977 or email karen.steel@uq.edu.au. 

To submit an application for this role, use the Apply button below. All applicants must supply the following documents: Cover letter, Resume and Selection Criteria responses.

For information on completing the application process click here.

Reference: 499291