PhD Scholarships in Sustainable Bioplastics at University of Queensland in Australia , 2014

PhD Scholarships: Sustainable Bioplastics

Apply now Job no:496345
Area:Faculty Of Engineering, Architecture & Info Tech
Salary (FTE):Research Scholar BAND
Work type:Full Time - Scholarship
Location: St Lucia, Brisbane

School of Chemical Engineering

The University of Queensland is one of the top universities in Australia and is in the top 100 in the world. The School of Chemical Engineering www.chemeng.uq.edu.au is renowned for its world-class engineering education, pioneering research, and high quality graduates.  The successful applicant would become part of a growing team of researchers at the University addressing the need for sustainable alternative materials. We have well-established foundations in research and commercialization of biopolymers, as a solid foundation for this innovative research program. The research team for this project is based at St Lucia, Brisbane. Opportunities exist for successful applicants to be hosted internationally for periods of time while working on the project and their PhD.

The role

Project 1: Intracellular manufacturing – high performance biomaterials from methane
PHA bioplastics are widely recognised as outstanding candidates to replace conventional plastics. However commercial uptake has been limited by variable performance (inconsistent polymer properties) and high production costs (raw material costs). In this project you will address this by (i) intracellularly tailoring copolymer microstructure, and (ii) utilising a cheap and abundant single chain (C1) carbon compound, namely methane, as the feedstock. The direct outcome will be the first PHBV copolymer from methane. As such, the project leads to technology to produce tough, flexible and affordable biopolymers and, at the same time, opportunity to add value to methane.
Project 2: Novel bioderived and biodegradable wood plastic composites from wastes
The project will lead to new and diverse markets for a globally challenged forestry industry. In short, it will position the Australian forestry industry with a unique eco-friendly product. At the same time, the technology offers an ideal and immediate route to market for mixed culture PHA thereby paving the way for conversion of wastes to commercially valuable bioproducts.
[This project is a collaboration with Norske Skog Australia].

The person

You should have a very good Honours or Master's degree, or equivalent in engineering, science or a relevant discipline. It is essential that you can clearly demonstrate research potential, and an ability to thrive in a multi-disciplinary team. An interest in high quality research leading to industry innovation is also essential.

Remuneration

There are two PhD Scholarships available. The scholarship package $30,000 per annum for 3 years, with the possibility of tuition fee waiver.  Australian applicants will be expected to apply for an Australian Postgraduate Award.

Enquiries

To discuss this role please contact Dr Steven Pratt on +61 7 33654943 or s.pratt@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 (including academic highlights and research outputs) and an Academic Record.
For information on completing the application process click here.

View Position Description
Advertised: 22 Aug 2014
Applications close: 02 Oct 2014 (11:55 PM) E. Australia Standard Time

http://jobs.uq.edu.au/caw/en/job/496345/phd-scholarships-sustainable-bioplastics