Prospective researchers

Information for prospective students

Please see the current project listings below, and feel free to contact Prof Kathryn Mumford for discussion as all available projects may not be listed on the website.

PhD Position in Direct Air Capture (DAC) Technology

We are seeking a highly motivated PhD candidate to join our research group focused on cutting-edge Direct Air Capture (DAC) technology, specifically utilizing solvent-based capture processes. The project will investigate innovative solvent absorption and regeneration techniques and explore the integration of novel solvents with membrane technology. Additionally, the research will involve synthesizing and developing novel acidic catalysts with facile synthesis methods (catalytic solvent regeneration) to further enhance CO2 stripping efficiency and reduce energy consumption.

We are looking for a candidate with:

  • A strong background in chemical engineering, and gas separation techniques using solvent
  • Familiarity with material science and related fields
  • Experience with experimental setups and analytical techniques for gas-lqiuid separation.
  • Interested in climate technology and passionate about developing sustainable solutions for CO2 capture.

Enquire here

PhD Position in Iron and Steelmaking Integrated with Carbon Capture: Process Optimisation and Techno-Economic Assessment

Institution

The University of Melbourne, in collaboration with CSIRO Energy Business Unit

Funding Source

India-Australia Minerals Scholar Network

Location

Melbourne, Australia

Project Overview

The University of Melbourne, in partnership with CSIRO Energy Business Unit, invites applications for a fully funded PhD position focusing on the development of carbon capture technologies tailored to the blast furnace-basic oxygen furnace (BF-BOF) steelmaking process. This project is part of a larger collaboration between Australia and India, targeting critical advances in energy optimisation and sustainability for the steel industry.

Key Research Objectives

  • Develop energetically optimised carbon capture processes using liquid absorbent and solid sorbent technologies tailored to BF-BOF steel production.
  • Provide insights into the technical feasibility and economic viability of these carbon capture technologies for integrated steelmaking processes in both Australia and India through detailed techno-economic modelling.
  • Investigate the effect of uncertainties in process and economic parameters through sensitivity analysis, creating a decision-making framework for advancing carbon capture in steel production.

Eligibility Criteria

  • The candidate must be of Indian nationality
  • Academic Background: First-class Honours (H1) or equivalent degree in Chemical Engineering, or a closely related discipline in engineering or science.
  • Skills:
    • A sound understanding of thermodynamics, chemical process design principles, process modelling and optimisation, and energy integration
    • Familiarity with computer programming languages and process modelling software
    • Previous research experience, ideally in liquid and/or solid-based carbon capture technologies
    • A good grasp of mathematical modelling of chemical processes involving mass transfer with chemical reactions
    • Willingness to conduct laboratory works if required
    • Full professional proficiency in English (evidence of approved English exam scores may be required)
    • Evidence of strong oral and written communication skills.
    • Ability to work as part of a multi-disciplinary research team.
    • Meet the University of Melbourne's PhD entry requirements.

Scholarship Details

  • Funding: The position is funded by the India-Australia Minerals Scholar Network.
  • Tuition Fees: The University of Melbourne will offer a tuition fee waiver for no more than four years.
  • Collaboration: This project offers the unique opportunity to collaborate with leading researchers at The University of Melbourne and CSIRO and to work on applied research with real-world impacts in both Australia and India.

Application Process

Applicants should submit their CV, academic transcripts, and a brief cover letter detailing their interest in the project and relevant experience. Please send your application materials to Prof Kathryn Mumford mumfordk@unimelb.edu.au and Dr Ehsan Soroodan ehsan.soroodan@csiro.au. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview.
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Terms and Conditions

This PhD research scholarship will be governed by The University of Melbourne’s Graduate Research Scholarship Terms and Conditions.

Enquire here

Information for potential collaborators

We are interested in discussing and pursuing small and large research and consulting projects. Please contact Kathryn Mumford to initiate a discussion.

Prof Kathryn Mumford
mumfordk@unimelb.edu.au