PhD Quantifying the Hofmeister Series in Complex Electrolytes

This project will apply quantum chemistry and molecular dynamics simulations to the study of Hofmeister and specific ion effects in complex electrolytes, including non-aqueous solvents, deep eutectic solvents and ionic liquids.

Specific ion effects are ubiquitous and contribute greatly to the complexity of solutions. Within this complexity, the Hofmeister series orders ions according to their relative strength in bringing about a large range of effects and is seen in a wide variety of systems. Our recent research led to the development of a quantum chemical parameter that, for simple electrolytes, was capable of quantifying the Hofmeister series and specific ion effects.

This project will extend our recent work in this field by developing analogous parameters for complex electrolytes - that is electrolytes that contain multiple salts, more complex ions, solvent mixtures and a variety of other solutes. These parameters will inform a wider collaboration with experimental partners at The University of Newcastle, the Australian National University and Flinders University that aims to comprehensively understand specific ion effects in complex electrolyte solutions containing multiple different ions (as found in biological systems), different solvents and solvent mixtures (as used in solvent extraction and power storage technologies), very high salt concentrations (important in crystallisation, deep eutectics and repurposing waste water streams) and in the presence of exotic ions (as used in battery technologies and for example the ions that comprise ionic liquids).

Funding: $32,192 per annum (2024 rate) indexed annually. For a PhD candidate, the living allowance scholarship is for 3.5 years and the tuition fee scholarship is for four years. Scholarships also include up to $1,500 relocation allowance and Overseas Student Health Cover at single rate, for an international candidate.

Supervisor: Professor Alister Page

Available to: International students

PhD

The candidate must have a Masters or Honours level degree in chemistry or a related discipline. Demonstrated experience in density functional theory and/or molecular dynamics is desirable. The applicant will need to meet the minimum eligibility criteria  for admission.

Interested applicants should contact Prof. Alister Page directly ([email protected] ). Applications should include a full CV, academic transcripts and cover letter.

Please send the email expressing interest to [email protected] by 5pm on 01 December 2024.