This research project, hosted by the Hydrogen Storage Research Group (HSRG) at Curtin University, aims to revolutionize renewable energy transport by advancing sodium borohydride (NaBH₄) as a safe, efficient, and scalable solid-state hydrogen carrier.
PhD Opportunity: Sodium Borohydride for Solid-State Green Hydrogen Export, Curtin University, Australia
Project Summary
Australia is striving to become a global leader in low-carbon energy exports. Current methods for transporting hydrogen face significant safety and economic challenges. This project addresses these gaps by developing NaBH₄ as a next-generation carrier. Supported by $8.5 million in total funding, the research focuses on optimizing synthesis from mined borax, improving hydrogen release mechanisms, and establishing efficient electrochemical regeneration of the material.
Key Project Details
| Category | Information |
| Designation | PhD Candidate |
| Research Area | Hydrogen Storage / Materials Science / Electrochemical Synthesis |
| Location | Curtin University, Perth, Australia |
| Funding/Scholarship | Eligible candidates may be considered for an RTP scholarship |
| Last Date to Apply | July 31, 2026 |
Eligibility & Qualifications
- Academic Background: Must hold a degree in physics, chemistry, or materials science with Honours 1 or a Master’s by Research degree.
- Skills: Experience with chemical/electrochemical synthesis and analytical techniques (XRD, DSC-TGA, SEM, NMR, FT-IR) is highly beneficial.
- Research Output: A track record of research outputs in refereed journals or conferences is preferred.
- Citizenship: This project is open to Domestic applicants only.
- Requirement: Must meet the standard eligibility criteria for entry into a PhD program at Curtin University.
Role & Objectives
The successful candidate will contribute to:
- Electrochemical Regeneration: Refining the synthesis of NaBH₄ from sodium metaborate.
- Mechanistic Study: Utilizing advanced analysis (NMR, Raman, microscopy) to understand synthesis processes.
- Hydrogen Release: Developing catalytic systems for efficient hydrogen extraction.
- Scale-Up: Designing and constructing an automated benchtop reactor for commercial feasibility.
How to Apply
Interested applicants should submit an Expression of Interest directly to Associate Professor Terry Humphries at Terry.Humphries@curtin.edu.au.
Applications must be submitted during the current Central Scholarship round, which is open from July 1st to July 31st, 2026.
