At a Glance
- Tasks: Explore innovative plasma technology to produce green ammonia and tackle climate challenges.
- Company: CSIRO and Monash University collaborating on cutting-edge research.
- Benefits: Receive a $48,071 annual scholarship for four years while gaining hands-on experience.
- Other info: Join a diverse team focused on real-world climate solutions and advanced manufacturing.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in sustainable energy and agriculture while developing valuable skills.
- Qualifications: Must be an Australian or New Zealand citizen and meet PhD admission requirements.
The predicted salary is between 48071 - 48071 $ per year.
The project is under the CSIRO’s Industry PhD (iPhD) Program that brings together an industry partner, a university (Monash University for this project) and CSIRO to co‑develop a four‑year industry‑focussed PhD project. You will receive a four‑year scholarship package of $48,071 annually (2026 rate) if successful. To be eligible, you must be an Australian or New Zealand citizen or Australian permanent resident.
The current project is titled “NOₓ production by plasma bubble reactor”. This project explores a plasma bubble reactor, where tiny plasma‑filled bubbles are injected into water to create nitrogen oxides (NOₓ) directly from the air. Because the bubbles are so small, they provide a large contact area, making the process highly efficient at room temperature and without any fossil fuels.
NOₓ is a key building block for producing green ammonia: a clean fuel and essential fertiliser. Traditional methods for ammonia production are energy‑intensive and carbon‑heavy. This plasma‑based approach is modular, renewable‑powered, and suitable for decentralised applications, opening doors to sustainable agriculture and future clean‑energy systems.
The student will gain hands‑on experience with plasma science, reactor design, chemical analysis, and renewable‑energy technologies. It’s an opportunity to contribute to real‑world climate solutions while developing valuable skills for careers in clean energy, environmental engineering, and advanced manufacturing.
Candidate requirements
- Be an Australian citizen or Permanent Resident, or a New Zealand citizen.
- Meet participating university PhD admission requirements.
- Meet university English language requirements.
- Not have previously completed a PhD.
- Be able to commence the Program in the year of the offer.
- Enrol as a full‑time PhD student. Part‑time arrangements may be considered if approved by the supervisory team and in accordance with university policy.
- Be prepared to be located at the project location(s) that the host university has approved and, if required, comply with the host university’s external enrolment procedures.
- Be prepared to undergo onboarding to CSIRO, which will include passing mandatory government background checks (allow for between 4 to 8 weeks) and complete any other CSIRO requirements.
Enquiries:
Professor Aijun Huang (Monash University: ***********@monash.edu)
Dr Yunxia Yang (CSIRO): ***********@csiro.au
Supporting a diverse workforce: Monash University recognises that its Australian campuses are located on the unceded lands of the people of the Kulin nations, and pays its respects to their elders, past and present.
PhD scholarship opportunity in Materials Science and Engineering in Melbourne employer: Monash University
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