PhD Scholarship in synthesising novel phases of carbon by shear-induced phase transformations

The record hardness and high refractive index of diamond-like carbons make them critical in a diverse range of applications from automated machining to quantum optoelectronics. 

This project seeks to develop new super-hard and tough carbon materials leading to more efficient cutting tools for industry and for the extraction and processing of minerals. The new diamond-like carbon materials are expected to have excellent barrier properties that could benefit the Australian medical device industry by extending the service life of implants, leading to better quality of life for Australians.

The results of our research into phase changes in carbon is also likely to be of interest in extra-terrestrial studies. By exploring carbon solids under the extreme conditions found elsewhere in our solar system, including on the gas giants Jupiter and Saturn and their moons, we aim to promote Australia’s culture as a scientific nation and help prepare humanity for future space exploration.

The record hardness and high refractive index of diamond-like carbons make them critical in a diverse range of applications from automated machining to quantum optoelectronics. 

This project seeks to develop new super-hard and tough carbon materials leading to more efficient cutting tools for industry and for the extraction and processing of minerals. The new diamond-like carbon materials are expected to have excellent barrier properties that could benefit the Australian medical device industry by extending the service life of implants, leading to better quality of life for Australians.

The results of our research into phase changes in carbon is also likely to be of interest in extra-terrestrial studies. By exploring carbon solids under the extreme conditions found elsewhere in our solar system, including on the gas giants Jupiter and Saturn and their moons, we aim to promote Australia’s culture as a scientific nation and help prepare humanity for future space exploration.

This scholarship provides a stipend of $32,841 per annum pro rata (full-time) for 3.5 years.

This scholarship provides a stipend of $32,841 per annum pro rata (full-time) for 3.5 years.

Applications are now open.

Applications are now open.

24/12/2023

24/12/2023

One (1) scholarship available

One (1) scholarship available

To be considered for the PhD Scholarship, applicants must hold or be currently completing either of the following in Physics or Materials Science:   

a Master by research, or a Master by coursework with a significant research component graded as high distinction, or equivalent, or a Honours degree achieving first class onours, or a 4 year bachelor degree achieving a GPA of 4 or equivalent (80% or above).

To be considered for the PhD Scholarship, applicants must hold or be currently completing either of the following in Physics or Materials Science:   

a Master by research, or a Master by coursework with a significant research component graded as high distinction, or equivalent, or a Honours degree achieving first class onours, or a 4 year bachelor degree achieving a GPA of 4 or equivalent (80% or above).

Before applying for the Scholarship, contact Professor Dougal McCulloch (by email only [email protected] ) with a copy of your CV to establish if your research interest and prior experience are aligned with this project.

Before applying for the Scholarship, contact Professor Dougal McCulloch (by email only [email protected] ) with a copy of your CV to establish if your research interest and prior experience are aligned with this project.

For more information on this project area - please refer to some of our recent publications.

For more information on this project area - please refer to some of our recent publications.