Developing a Phytochemical profile of Underutilised Forestry Biomass for Product Development

About the research project

This project involves the development methods for the rapid screening of forestry biomass to develop a phytochemical database to identify opportunities to develop new products from biopolymers, agrichemicals and heath related applications. Using Pressurised Hot water extraction (PHWE), that has been optimised at UTAS, we will screen biomass and catalogue their chemical profiles. This is essential for evaluating their potential as a renewable resource for complex organic molecules that can replace fossil fuel derived compounds. These may have applications either directly due to their biological activity or as a feedstock for chemical synthesis. This project is supported through the Australian Forestry Wood Innovation institute to add value to the industry, identify opportunities for sustainable and renewable chemical feed-stocks.

Primary supervisor

Meet Professor Jason Smith

Funding

The successful applicant will receive a scholarship which provides:

• a living allowance stipend co-funded with AFWI Core Funding of $34,315 per annum 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)

A tuition fee offset may be offered to eligible international applicants following competitive assessment 

As part of the application process you may indicate if you do not wish to be considered for scholarship funding.

Other funding opportunities and fees

For further information regarding other scholarships on offer, and the various fees for undertaking a research degree, please visit our Scholarships and fees on research degrees page.

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 already have been awarded a first class Honours degree or hold equivalent qualifications or relevant and substantial research experience in an appropriate sector

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 desirable selection criteria specific to this project:

• Analytical or Natural products experience

Application process

1. Select your project, and check that you meet the eligibility and selection criteria, including citizenship;
2. Contact Professor Jason Smith to discuss your suitability and the project's requirements; and
3. 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.
4. Apply prior to 1 August 2026.

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.

Apply nowExplore other projects