Materials design for electrochemical CO2 capture

Carbon dioxide (CO2) is the primary greenhouse gas that drives global climate change, and there are various proposed ways we can limit its amount in the environment, such as by switching to renewable energy, using green fuels like hydrogen, and designing energy-efficient technologies with a mindset of reducing emissions. But even with these approaches, CO2 remains emitted into the environment (at times from processes noted above). Therefore, since we cannot get rid of CO2 completely, capturing it from its point sources or the environment is important.

This project, therefore, aims to develop new electrochemical carbon capture technology. By designing and fabricating new functional electrodes and high-performance electrochemical devices based on water and driven by renewable electricity, this project will enhance the ability to capture CO2.

Expected outcomes include new multi-dimension electrodes with unique chemistry and state-of-the-art CO2 capture devices plus in-depth knowledge of electrochemical CO2 capture mechanisms for optimised device design and control.

This project is expected to contribute to Australia's bold ambition to reduce its emissions to 43% below 2005 levels by 2030 and achieve net zero by 2050.

This project is funded by the Australian Research Council (ARC) through the ARC Discovery Early Career Researcher Award

This is an Earmarked scholarship project that aligns with a recently awarded Australian Government grant.

The scholarship includes:

• living stipend of $35,000 per annum tax free (2024 rate), indexed annually
• your tuition fees covered
• single overseas student health cover (OSHC).

Learn more about the Earmarked scholarship.

Your application will be assessed on a competitive basis.

We take into account your:

• previous academic record
• publication record
• honours and awards
• employment history

A working knowledge of materials chemistry would be of benefit to someone working on this project.

The applicant will demonstrate academic achievement in the field(s) of chemical engineering and the potential for scholastic success.

A background or knowledge of batteries, capacitors and related electrochemistry is highly desirable.

This project requires candidates to commence no later than Research Quarter 4, 2024. To allow time for your application to be processed, we recommend applying no later than 30 June, 2024 31 March, 2024.

You can start in an earlier research quarter. See application dates.

Before you apply

1. Check your eligibility for the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD).
2. Prepare your documentation.
3. Contact Dr Mike Tebyetekerwa (m.tebyetekerwa@uq.edu.au) to discuss your interest and suitability.

When you apply

You apply for this scholarship when you submit an application for a PhD. You don’t need to submit a separate scholarship application.

In your application ensure that under the ‘Scholarships and collaborative study’ section you select:

• My higher degree is not collaborative
• I am applying for, or have been awarded a scholarship or sponsorship
• UQ Earmarked Scholarship type.

Apply now