Postdoctoral Research Fellow in High-Performance Catalysts and Membranes - UQ Dow Centre for Sustainable Engineering Innovation

• UQ Dow Centre for Sustainable Engineering Innovation - Faculty of EAIT

• Full-time (100%), fixed-term position for up to 3 years

• Base salary will be in the range $78,871.35 - $105,004.02 + 17% Superannuation (Academic Level A)

• Based at our St Lucia Campus

About This Opportunity 

The Postdoctoral Research Fellow will work with Professor Xiwang Zhang, the Director of both the ARC Centre of Excellence for Green Electrochemical Transformation of CO2 (GETCO2) and the UQ Dow Centre for Sustainable Engineering Innovation, on a range of cutting-edge projects. These projects will focus on: 1) developing high-performance catalysts and membranes using advanced functional materials (2D nanosheets and porous materials, e.g., carbon nitride), 2) designing and manufacturing innovative devices for chemical synthesis and separation, and 3) applying these catalysts, membranes, and devices for energy-efficient separations and green chemical synthesis.

This position involves a broad set of interconnected responsibilities, including the design and execution of experimental procedures and research plans for catalyst and membrane development, such as fabrication, characterisation, and performance evaluation. Additionally, the role includes advancing reactor development and green chemical synthesis processes. The successful candidate will be instrumental in conducting both laboratory and pilot-scale experiments, managing and analysing datasets, and contributing to data analysis and scientific writing.

Key responsibilities will include: 

• Research: Design and develop durable, high-performance catalysts and membranes; design and manufacture lab and pilot-scale reactors using industry-standard software and engraving machines. Advance applications of innovative catalysts, membranes, and devices in energy-efficient separation and green chemical synthesis, such as CO₂ conversion and H₂O₂ production. Publish high-quality research in prestigious outlets, contribute to competitive funding applications, and support knowledge transfer by translating research into practical solutions for end users, facilitating the commercialisation of UQ intellectual property.

• Supervision and Researcher Development: Supervise Honours and Higher Degree by Research students, supporting their development and ensuring effective guidance. Manage research support staff according to University policies throughout their employment, addressing conflicts and grievances promptly and professionally.

• Citizenship and Service: Exhibit citizenship behaviours that reflect UQ values, demonstrating leadership through collaboration and active engagement in key initiatives. Support academic roles and unit operations during team absences, contribute to internal service roles, decision-making, and committees. Engage in external service activities and initiate partnerships with industry, government, professional organisations, and the broader community.

• Teaching: Where undergraduate teaching is undertaken achieve teaching quality as indicated by approved surveys and outcomes for students and improve or innovate where appropriate in response to feedback.

This is a research focused position. Further information can be found by viewing UQ’s Criteria for Academic Performance.

About UQ

As part of the UQ community, you will have the opportunity to work alongside the brightest minds, who have joined us from all over the world, and within an environment where interdisciplinary collaborations are encouraged.

At the core of our teaching remains our students, and their experience with us sets a foundation for success far beyond graduation. UQ has made a commitment to making education opportunities available for all Queenslanders, regardless of personal, financial, or geographical barriers.

As part of our commitment to excellence in research and professional practice in academic contexts, we are proud to provide our staff with access to world-class facilities and equipment, grant writing support, greater research funding opportunities, and other forms of staff support and development.

The greater benefits of joining the UQ community are broad:  from being part of a Group of Eight university, to recognition of prior service with other Australian universities, up to 26 weeks of paid parental leave, 17.5% annual leave loading, flexible working arrangements including hybrid on site/WFH options and flexible start/finish times, and genuine career progression opportunities via the academic promotions process.

About You

• Completion or near completion of a PhD in Chemical Engineering or a closely related field.

• Exceptional publication record in leading scientific journals.

• Proven expertise in synthesis, characterisation and evaluation of catalysts and membranes.

• Proven expertise in the design and manufacturing of novel devices for energy-efficient separation and green chemical synthesis.

• Strong organisational and planning skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines, and deliver results.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a proven ability to produce clear, concise reports, publications, and grant proposals.

• Demonstrated understanding of confidentiality, privacy, and data management principles.

• Proven ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.

The successful candidate may be required to complete a number of pre-employment checks, including: right to work in Australia, criminal check, education check, mandatory immunisations, etc. 

Work Rights:

Visa sponsorship may be available for this appointment.

Relocating from interstate or overseas? We will support you with the visa sponsorship process and a relocation support package. You can find out more about life in Australia’s Sunshine State here.

Questions? 

For more information about this opportunity, please contact Professor Xiwang Zhang via [email protected]. For application queries, please contact [email protected] stating the job reference number (below) in the subject line.
 

Want to Apply? 

All applicants must upload the following documents in order for your application to be considered:

• Resume

• Cover letter

• Responses to the ‘About You’ section

Other Information 

UQ is committed to a fair, equitable and inclusive selection process, which recognises that some applicants may face additional barriers and challenges which have impacted and/or continue to impact their career trajectory. Candidates who do not meet all criteria are encouraged to apply and demonstrate their potential. The selection panel considers both potential and performance relative to opportunities when assessing suitability for the role.

We know one of our strengths as an institution lies in our diverse colleagues. We are dedicated to equity, diversity, and inclusion, fostering an environment that mirrors our wider community. We are committed to attracting, retaining, and promoting diverse talent. Reach out to [email protected] for accessibility support or adjustments.

Applications close Thursday, 19 December 2024 at 11.00pm AEST (R-45412). Please note that interviews will be held in January 2025.