Summary
The ARC Research Hub for Critical Energy Separation Materials (CREST Hub), led by Monash University in collaboration with prominent Australian universities and industrial partners, is inviting applications for fully funded PhD scholarship positions. The hub focuses on pioneering sustainable separation technologies for critical energy minerals (including lithium and battery metals), green gases, and industrial carbon capture to accelerate the transition to net-zero emissions.
PhD Scholarships: ARC Research Hub for Critical Energy Separation Materials (CREST Hub)
Designation
- PhD Research Scholar / PhD Candidate
Key Program Overview
| Feature | Details |
| Job / Reference ID | 697809 |
| Host Institution | Monash University (Faculty of Engineering / Department of Chemical & Biological Engineering) |
| Study Mode & Type | Full-Time, On-Campus |
| Duration | Up to 3.5 years |
| Stipend / Living Allowance | $37,145 AUD per annum (tax-free, indexed annually) + standard RTP allowances |
| Tuition Fee Coverage | Tuition fee waiver / offset included under standard conditions |
| Commencement | 2026 / 2027 |
| Application Deadline | September 30, 2026 at 11:55 PM AEST |
Research Areas
Doctoral projects span multidisciplinary topics in sustainable minerals and clean energy separation technologies:
- Solvent-based direct lithium extraction (DLE)
- Low-energy capture of industrial carbon dioxide ($CO_2$)
- Advanced membrane technologies for recovery, separation, and re-use of battery metals
- Nanostructured membranes for selective lithium and ion transport
- Green chemical processes for critical mineral refining and separation of molecular energy carriers
Location
- Clayton Campus, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia(Collaborative opportunities and placements may also involve partner nodes across NSW and WA)
Eligibility / Qualifications
- Academic Background: A completed Bachelor’s degree with First-Class Honours (H1 or equivalent) or a Master’s degree by research in Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Chemistry, Metallurgy, Environmental Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mining Engineering, Electrochemistry, or a closely related discipline.
- Research Experience: Demonstrated capacity to undertake high-level independent research. Prior peer-reviewed publications are highly advantageous.
- Language Proficiency: Must meet Monash University’s English language proficiency requirements for Graduate Research admission.
- Skills: Strong communication, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills with the ability to work effectively in multi-institutional and industry-collaborative teams.
- Exclusions: Candidates who already hold a PhD degree are not eligible.
Scholarship Description & Benefits
- Financial Support: A tax-free living allowance stipend of $37,145 AUD/year for up to 3.5 years.
- Fee Waivers: Full research tuition fee offset/scholarship for domestic and eligible international candidates.
- Industry Engagement: Direct mentoring and joint supervision by academic leaders and global industrial partners, including access to industry site placements and technical workshops.
- World-Class Infrastructure: Access to Monash University’s cutting-edge laboratories, characterisation platforms (e.g., MCEM, MCN), and pilot-scale testing facilities.
- Travel & Conference Support: Funding support to present research at major domestic and international conferences.
How to Apply
- Prepare Required Application Documents:
- Cover Letter: Outlining your research interests, motivations, and alignment with CREST Hub focus areas.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV): Detailed academic record, work/research experience, and publication list.
- Academic Transcripts: Certified academic transcripts and degree completion certificates.
- Referees: Contact details of at least two academic referees.
- Online Submission: Submit your Expression of Interest (EOI) / Application via the official Monash Careers portal quoting Job No. 697809.
- Contact for Enquiries: Dr. Gagan Kaur, CREST Hub Manager (Gagan.Kaur@monash.edu).
Last Date for Apply
- September 30, 2026 (11:55 PM Australian Eastern Standard Time)
