Degree type
PhD
Closing date
1 July 2023
Campus
Hobart
Citizenship requirement
Domestic
About the research project
The toughest analytical science challenges typically require advanced analytical technologies to acquire the desired solutions. In the field of separation science this inevitably involves hyphenated separation technologies, specifically the combination of chromatography and mass spectrometry. To advance this technology to its full capability our ARC Training Centre for Hyphenated Analytical Separation Technologies (HyTECH) utilises the collaborative strength of academic, industry and end-user partnerships.
We are seeking outstanding graduates with an interest in solving fundamental and technical challenges in analytical science, with a focus on delivering analytical solutions and impact to technology end-users. HyTECH students will receive a competitive post-graduate stipend, contribute to a program of cutting-edge industry focused research, be supported with a substantial annual program of early career researcher professional development, and over the course of their candidature spend a minimum of twelve months placement within the facilities of one or more of the project's supporting partner organisations.
Development of high surface area, functionalised and chemically tailored substrates/materials for use as selective sorbents and/or functional frits within liquid chromatographic columns forms the basis of this project, aimed at providing innovative sample preparation, handing, and/or solute isolation/concentration solutions (both on- and off-column), which aim to present/introduce the sample to the column bed in the most ideal form to improve chromatographic efficiency and resolution, and ultimately detection sensitivty. The project will explore frit design using the above functionalised materials, including exploration of larger volume frits for selective on-column concentration, solute and/or matrix trapping, and prototype such designs using additive manufacturing techniques, to explore a variety of dimensions and formats to maximise performance. Using new nano-silica based substrates (latest core-shell technology) and new nanocomposite 'monolith type' membrane materials recently developed by Advanced Materials Technology (pre-commercial), this project will explore chemical surface functionalisation for target applications, e.g. fluorinated functionalities for targeting polyfluorinated pollutants (PFAS), and other selective chemistries to address use cases of significance, with application in LC-MS methods.
Primary Supervisor
Meet Prof Brett PaullFunding
Applicants will be considered for a Research Training Program (RTP) scholarship or Tasmania Graduate Research Scholarship (TGRS) which, if successful, provides:
- a living allowance stipend of $31,500 per annum (2023 rate, indexed annually) for 3.5 years
- a relocation allowance of up to $2,000
- a tuition fees offset covering the cost of tuition fees for up to four years (domestic applicants only)
If successful, international applicants will receive a University of Tasmania Fees Offset for up to four years.
As part of the application process you may indicate if you do not wish to be considered for scholarship funding.
Eligibility
Applicants should review the Higher Degree by Research minimum entry requirements.
Ensure your eligibility for the scholarship round by referring to our Key Dates.
Additional eligibility criteria specific to this project/scholarship:
- Applicants must be able to undertake the project on-campus
Selection Criteria
The project is competitively assessed and awarded. Selection is based on academic merit and suitability to the project as determined by the College.
Additional essential selection criteria specific to this project:
- Advanced laboratory and analytical instrumental skills
- Collaborative and team-player mentality
- Technically skilled in use of advanced instruments
Additional desirable selection criteria specific to this project:
- Demonstrable research communication skills e.g. research thesis, published papers, conference presentations
Application process
- Select your project, and check that you meet the eligibility and selection criteria, including citizenship;
- Contact Prof Brett Paull to discuss your suitability and the project's requirements; and
- In your application:
- Copy and paste the title of the project from this advertisement into your application. If you don’t correctly do this your application may be rejected.
- Submit a signed supervisory support form, a CV including contact details of 2 referees and your project research proposal.
- Apply prior to 1 July 2023.
Full details of the application process can be found under the 'How to apply' section of the Research Degrees website.
Following the closing date applications will be assessed within the College. Applicants should expect to receive notification of the outcome by email by the advertised outcome date.
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