PhD Scholarship in Medium temperature electrolysis for low-cost carbon dioxide utilization

Carbon dioxide is a notorious greenhouse gas. Its capture, and subsequent storage or utilization, is a major focus not only for researchers, but also for governments trying to meet their obligations of the Paris Agreement on climate change and for industries managing their legal and social responsibilities.

This Australian Research Council funded project (DP220100316 - Medium temperature electrolysis for low-cost carbon dioxide utilization) involves working with a multidisciplinary research team consisting of electrochemists and chemical engineers, with strong interactions with other Australian and Overseas research groups and institutions.

The aim of this multidisciplinary project is to develop commercially viable medium temperature electrolysers to convert carbon dioxide into value added chemicals using electricity from renewable sources. New design principles will be developed to generate highly active and selective catalysts with long-term stability. These electrolyzers will be integrated with carbon capture technologies to directly utilize captured carbon dioxide with high energy efficiency.

Candidate Requirements

• H1 or equivalent, or research focused Master degree in chemistry, chemical or materials engineering
• Demonstrated experience in PEM fuel cells/electrolysers, ideally high temperature ones
• Demonstrated problem-solving abilities
• Excellent research capability and writing skills, ideally evidenced by publications
• Capacity to work independently and in a team

Applicants must also fulfil the criteria for PhD admission at Monash University. Details of the relevant requirements are available at monash.edu/science/schools/chemistry/postgraduate

Further Information

Academic Supervisors: Associate Professor Jie Zhang and Prof Paul Webley

Remuneration: Successful applicants will receive $30,000 AUD per annum (2022 full-time rate, tax-free), a once-off relocation allowance of $1000 (interstate) or $1500 (international) and covers the cost of tuition (if applicable).

Employment Type: Full-time

Commencement: 2022

Contact: jie.zhang@monash.edu, attaching a copy of your curriculum vitae (CV), including a list of publication; academic transcripts (university level qualifications) and; IELTS/TOEFL English test results (if applicable).