Sustainable, Low-Waste Technologies in Polymer and Materials Synthesis

About the research project

The synthesis of commodity and high performance polymers underpins numerous sectors in the global economy, from consumer plastics to biotechnology, and are prepared on the order of millions of tonnes per annum. The polymer sector faces multiple challenges - the majority of the compounds used in their synthesis are derived from crude oil, and most polymers are difficult to degrade or recycle. Further, many of these materials are prepared using traditional organic solvents, resulting in the generation of significant amounts of hazardous chemical waste. As a consequence, alternative synthetic pathways that adopt the principles of green chemistry are highly desirable.

This project will investigate the use of deep eutectic solvents, an emergent class of designer solvents that can be prepared from non-toxic, readily available and biodegradeable starting materials, specifically in the domain of polymer synthesis. Our group recently developed synthetic pathways to prepare materials with novel properties not typically accessible via conventional methods, and has created platforms including circular 3d printing technologies, materials for soft actuators, and antimicrobial coatings. These eutectics will be investigated in this project in areas such as controlled polymer synthesis, photopolymerization and importantly depolymerization and recycling, with a view towards a truly circular materials synthesis platform. Potential applications of these materials include chemical separations, additive manufacturing and controlled release technologies.

Primary supervisor

Meet Associate Professor Stuart Thickett

Funding

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 funded by University of Tasmania 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.

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:

• First-class Honours degree or equivalent in a relevant area of the chemical sciences or chemical engineering

Application process

1. Select your project, and check that you meet the eligibility and selection criteria, including citizenship;
2. Contact Associate Professor Stuart Thickett 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 October 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.

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