PhD Opportunity: Zero-carbon Functional Polymers

Most everyday polymers, either natural or synthetic, are carbon-based materials. Combustion of carbon-based polymers emits CO2 into the atmosphere, accelerating climate change. Our group explores sustainable inorganic polymers that can be easily produced and fully recycled without waste. Depending on cation-anion combinations of monomers used for reaction, these zero-carbon polymer products have tunable properties. Functional zero-carbon polymers can be used for a wide range of applications, including thermal insulating materials, anti-fire coatings, high temperature adhesives, slow-release fertilizers for agricultural use, formulating nanostructured liquids to support molecular self-assembly, and forming poly-ionic coacervates that act as nanoreactors for chemical synthesis and heavy metal extraction.

About this opportunity:

Interested in learning about polymer chemistry and 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.

Requirements:

- a major in Chemistry or Materials Science or Chemical Engineering (or related fields)

- 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

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.

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.