PhD Opportunity: Lightning and the Chemical Origin of Life

What are the early steps in the chemical origin of life on Earth, prior to the existence of complex organic molecules and biology? Could Earth have relied on fallen meteorites carrying alien species, or could lightning storms have turned an inorganic Earth and its inert atmosphere into chemically reactive building blocks for early life to emerge, survive, and evolve? Our group tests the “Frankenstein” scenario, experimentally simulating lightning strikes under a prebiotic Earth-like environment on the bench top. We explore reaction pathways uniquely enabled by plasma- and radical- chemistry, as well as the role of reactive interfaces (e.g., aerosols, nanostructured solvents, particle suspensions, and mineral surfaces) in electrochemical synthesis.

About this opportunity:

Interested in completing a PhD research degree in 3.5 years? We are looking for curious, energetic, and self-motivated candidates, whom are passionate about solving interdisciplinary problems.

The University of Sydney is ranked in the top 20 universities in the world.

Research scholarships are awarded on a competitive basis, with exempted Tuition and $40k/yr stipend (tax free). Conference presentations and collaborative opportunities with top institutes are possible, depending on project and research performance.

Requirements:

- a major in Chemistry or related fields (e.g., Materials Science, Physics, or Chemical Engineering)

- a 4-year undergraduate degree (First Class Honours), or a Master’s Degree

- prior research experience (preferably with publication)

- excellent communication skills in English (preferably English native speaker or bilingual)

- an overall GPA of above 3.3/4.0 (or > 83/100 or top 15% in your class)

- coming from one of the top 200 universities worldwide (required), preferably top 100

How to apply:

Please submit this google form and attach your CV for initial screening:

https://forms.gle/4uZvWejpn3CQUhCy9

*no email nor platform enquiry please*

International (non-Australian) candidates should submit their applications 3-6 months in advance. Australian (domestic) candidates are encouraged to apply >2 months in advance.

- Please make sure that you meet all requirements specified above before submission.

- If you pass initial screening, you will likely receive an email from me to request more info within 1-2 weeks after applying.

- If you don't hear back >3 weeks after applying, that means you did not pass initial screening. Due to the large volume of applications that we receive on a daily basis, please do not send any follow-up email nor platform enquiry, otherwise your email may be considered as spam and will be blocked by our server.