Taste of Research Summer Scholarships

2026 Projects - School of Chemical Engineering

Chemical Engineering Research Areas

Related Projects

Projects offered by other Engineering Schools that may be of interest.

Chemical Engineering Projects

No School Research Area

Project Title:	Combination Therapy with Antimicrobial Peptides to Combat Multidrug-Resistant Bacteria
Name of Supervisor:	Edgar Wong
Email of Supervisor:	edgar.wong@unsw.edu.au
Name of Joint/Co-Supervisor:	.
Email of Joint/Co-Supervisor:	.
School:	School of Chemical Engineering
Faculty Research Area (Theme):	Health & Medical Technologies
Applicable to other Engineering schools/disciplines:
Terms:	Term 2
Abstract:	Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is now considered a critical global healthcare challenge and urgently requires new therapeutic strategies to overcome this issue. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) and mimics thereof have been shown to effectively synergise and revive the 'lost' activity of antibiotics against multidrug-resistant bacteria. This approach is promising in combating AMR and we aim to build upon our initial work and develop further. The project will look at testing more combinations and against wider panel of bacteria including priority pathogens such as Klebsiella pneumoniae and Acinetobacter baumannii.
Research Environment:	Very biofocussed project and hence the scholar will be mainly working in a PC2 microbiology lab to perform antimicrobial assays. Scholar needs to have good attention to detail.
Novelty and Contribution:	.
Expected Outcomes:	Tested various combinations of AMPs and antibiotics against different bacteria strains. The results are expected to lead to high impact publication and also further in vivo testing in animal models with collaborators, which would form the basis of preclinical work for future translation. The scholar will learn/enhance technical skills at working in a biolab and also develop deep knowledge in the AMR field.
Reference Material Links:	https://www.edgarwonglab.com/ https://pubs.acs.org/doi/full/10.1021/acsinfecdis.2c00087 https://pubs.acs.org/doi/full/10.1021/acs.biomac.4c01137 General reading on antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) and combination therapy
Will the student visit the premises of an industry partner, or undertake any activity on premises external to UNSW?	No

Project Title:	Constructing a scalable catalytic membrane for solar-energy-driven green hydrogen production
Name of Supervisor:	Jason Scott
Email of Supervisor:	jason.scott@unsw.edu.au
Name of Joint/Co-Supervisor:	Lixue Jiang
Email of Joint/Co-Supervisor:	.
School:	School of Chemical Engineering
Faculty Research Area (Theme):	Energy Systems, Renewable and Non-Renewable
Applicable to other Engineering schools/disciplines:
Terms:	Term 2
Abstract:	Hydrogen is one of the cleanest fuels available, exhibiting vast potential to be a crucial element in alleviating energy shortages and reducing the effects of climate change. The ongoing challenges with extracting hydrogen from water are associated with its relatively energy intensive process (>4.5 kWh mH2-3), high costs and need for a clean water source. The competition with clean water for drinking and agricultural purposes is increasingly seen as the critical barrier to widespread implementation of renewable hydrogen technologies. The Project will undertake research activities to design and manufacture a unique scalable modular platform that can generate renewable hydrogen cost-effectively, requiring only sunlight and wastewater as feedstock. A flexible floating technology integrated with a catalytic membrane will combine photocatalysis with solar heat to produce renewable hydrogen from a body of wastewater.
Research Environment:	Our Particles and Catalysis Research Laboratory (PartCat) provides the excellent research facilities and environment to successfully execute this research program, including materials synthesis equipment, performance evaluation devices, and structural characterisation techniques. We also have access to the advanced materials characterisation facilities in the UNSW Mark Wainwright Analytical Centre. This is a great opportunity for the student who is interested in renewable energy technologies and gaining hands-on experience in the research labs.
Novelty and Contribution:	.
Expected Outcomes:	The expected outcomes from research activities are: 1. Design and manufacture of catalyst materials; 2. Fabrication of a scalable catalytic membrane to produce hydrogen in a photoreactor; 3. Design, construct and optimise a working flexible floating device for solar-energy-driven hydrogen production. The student is expected to gain experience in synthesizing and measuring the catalysis. The project will also provide an opportunity for the student to collaborate with other research students, gaining valuable interdisciplinary experience. The knowledge and data generated will contribute as input to industry stakeholders and will result in a publication in a scientific journal.
Reference Material Links:	https://www.nature.com/articles/s43586-023-00226-x, opens in a new window https://www.pcrg.unsw.edu.au/research/research-capabilities/Photocatalysis, opens in a new window https://www.nature.com/articles/nmat4589, opens in a new window https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1385894725037994, opens in a new window
Will the student visit the premises of an industry partner, or undertake any activity on premises external to UNSW?	No

Project Title:	Electrolysis Prototype Development for Hydrogen Peroxide Production
Name of Supervisor:	Dr Ding Zhang
Email of Supervisor:	ding.zhang@unsw.edu.au
Name of Joint/Co-Supervisor:	Dr Qiyuan Li, Prof Rose Amal
Email of Joint/Co-Supervisor:	.
School:	School of Chemical Engineering
Faculty Research Area (Theme):	Resources Engineering
Applicable to other Engineering schools/disciplines:
Terms:	Term 2
Abstract:	Hydrogen peroxide is widely used in industries such as paper bleaching, water treatment, food disinfection, mining, and semiconductor manufacturing. Conventional anthraquinone-based production is energy-intensive and produces significant waste. In contrast, electrochemical production uses only water, air, and electricity, enabling efficient, on-site, and on-demand generation. This project focuses on designing, building, and testing an electrolysis-based prototype for sustainable hydrogen peroxide production.
Research Environment:	The student will have the opportunity to work in the Particles and Catalysis Research Group (PartCat) under the guidance of Scientia Professor Rose Amal, Dr Ding Zhang and Dr Qiyuan Li.
Novelty and Contribution:	.
Expected Outcomes:	The project offers the student hands-on experience in designing and building a functional laboratory-scale prototype for hydrogen peroxide production. They will collect and analyse performance data, propose improvements for optimisation, and develop practical skills in electrochemical cell assembly, system integration, and performance testing.
Reference Material Links:	https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S136970212300024X
Will the student visit the premises of an industry partner, or undertake any activity on premises external to UNSW?	No

Project Title:	Harnessing Sunlight to Transform CO? into Sustainable Liquid Fuels
Name of Supervisor:	Dr Charlotte Zhu
Email of Supervisor:	y.f.zhu@unsw.edu.au
Name of Joint/Co-Supervisor:	Dr Emma Lovell
Email of Joint/Co-Supervisor:	e.lovell@unsw.edu.au
School:	School of Chemical Engineering
Faculty Research Area (Theme):	Energy Systems, Renewable and Non-Renewable
Applicable to other Engineering schools/disciplines:
Terms:
Abstract:	Converting waste CO? into long-chain hydrocarbons offers a sustainable drop-in fuel for heavy transport, enabling decarbonization with minimal disruption to existing infrastructure. Thermal catalysis remains the most viable approach for directly converting CO2 to hydrocarbons via CO2-Fishcer Tropsch Synthesis (CO2-FTS). CO2-FTS as a tandem reaction encompasses CO2 activation to CO, followed by hydrogenation to CHx fragments which can then couple to form hydrocarbon chains under Fischer Tropsch synthesis (FTS). Nevertheless, liquid fuel synthesis (such as the kerosene fraction (C8-C16) that function as jet fuel precursors) underpinned by long chain hydrocarbon production is challenging. Recent works demonstrate the potential of visible light irradiation for light-induced benefits, enhancing hydrocarbon production via CO2-FTS under high pressure conditions.1, 2 These findings indicate significant opportunities to harness sunlight for simultaneous heat and carrier excitation to tune the CO?-FTS hydrocarbon distribution. A strategy for directly converting CO2 to long chained hydrocarbons is to employ rationally designed bimetallic catalysts.3, 4 To this end, the ratio and interaction between the different metals can impact CO2 conversion and carbon coupling. The appointed student will work alongside experienced researchers and HDR students within a diverse research group, as well as engineering professionals from industry R&D partners. The student will gain hands-on experience in catalyst synthesis, materials characterization, and process operation, while also being exposed to reactor system establishment and complex product quantification at bench scale.
Research Environment:	This project provides the opportunity for hands on research work in a state-of-the-art catalysis laboratory including synthesis, characterization and evaluation technologies.
Novelty and Contribution:	.
Expected Outcomes:	The appointed student will undertake catalyst preparation, characterisation to target long-chain hydrocarbon production. The role will also include supporting reactor system start-up and collaborating with industry partners to benchmark newly established laboratory reactors through reaction testing. The outcomes of this project will contribute to refining experimental protocols for light-assisted liquid fuel synthesis and generating data for peer-reviewed publications.
Reference Material Links:	1. C. Song, Z. Wang, J. Zhao, X. Qin, M. Peng, Z. Gao, M. Xu, Y. Xu, J. Yan, Y. Bi, M. Wang, L. Chen, Z. Yin, X. Liu, J. Liu and D. Ma, Chem Catalysis, 2024, 4, 100960. 2. Y. F. Zhu, J. A. Yuwono, M. Wilson, B. Xie, P. Kumar, R. Amal, J. Scott and E. C. Lovell, Applied Catalysis B: Environment and Energy, 2025, 379, 125736. 3. L. Zhang, Y. Dang, X. Zhou, P. Gao, A. Petrus van Bavel, H. Wang, S. Li, L. Shi, Y. Yang, E. I. Vovk, Y. Gao and Y. Sun, The Innovation, 2021, 2, 100170. 4. J. Zhao, J. Liu, Z. Li, K. Wang, R. Shi, P. Wang, Q. Wang, G. I. N. Waterhouse, X. Wen and T. Zhang, Nature Communications, 2023, 14, 1909.
Will the student visit the premises of an industry partner, or undertake any activity on premises external to UNSW?	No

Project Title:	High-Throughput Discovery of Efficient Photocatalysts for Solar Hydrogen Production
Name of Supervisor:	Dr Denny Gunawan
Email of Supervisor:	denny.gunawan@unsw.edu.au
Name of Joint/Co-Supervisor:	Prof Rose Amal
Email of Joint/Co-Supervisor:	r.amal@unsw.edu.au
School:	School of Chemical Engineering
Faculty Research Area (Theme):	Energy Systems, Renewable and Non-Renewable
Applicable to other Engineering schools/disciplines:
Terms:	Term 2
Abstract:	Photocatalytic hydrogen production offers a promising route for the direct conversion of solar energy into green hydrogen [1-2]. Unlike electrochemical systems, it eliminates the need for solar panels and costly electrolysers, potentially reducing production costs. However, its overall efficiency remains relatively low. Machine learning has recently gained traction as a tool to accelerate the discovery of efficient solar photocatalysts [3]. A crucial first step in implementing machine learning in this field is establishing a compatible data generation platform. High-throughput and combinatorial techniques are therefore vital for producing large, diverse datasets. This project aims to develop a high-throughput experimental platform to screen visible-light-active photocatalyst libraries from our lab and global partners. The platform will combine automated X-ray diffraction, UV-vis spectroscopy, and high-throughput photocatalytic activity measurements. The data will be integrated into our CatDat database (https://solarcatalysis.ai) for machine learning analysis, enabling robust benchmarking of photocatalytic hydrogen production.
Research Environment:	The student will have the opportunity to join the Particles and Catalysis Research Group (PartCat) under the supervision of Dr Denny Gunawan and Prof Rose Amal. The student will have access to state-of-the-art laboratories equipped with advanced experimental facilities and computational tools for photocatalysis research. Additionally, the student will collaborate closely with international partners through the UNSW-led sunlight-to-X research hub (https://www.pcrg.unsw.edu.au/sunlighttoX), involving institutions from Australia, Japan, Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia. This project offers a multidisciplinary research environment where the student will develop a broad set of technical and professional skills, supporting future career opportunities in both academia and industry.
Novelty and Contribution:	.
Expected Outcomes:	The student is expected to gain hands-on experience in photocatalyst synthesis, characterisation, activity measurement techniques, and the application of machine learning. The project also offers opportunities to collaborate with researchers from UNSW and external institutions, providing valuable interdisciplinary experience. Continuation of the research as an Honours thesis project is possible.
Reference Material Links:	[1] Gunawan, D. et al. (2024). Materials Advances in Photocatalytic Solar Hydrogen Production: Integrating Systems and Economics for a Sustainable Future. Adv. Mater. 36, 2404618. [2] Toe, C. Y. et al. (2021). Advancing Photoreforming of Organics: Highlights on Photocatalyst and System Designs for Selective Oxidation Reactions. Energy Environ. Sci. 14, 1140-1175. [3] Masood, H. et al. (2019). Machine Learning for Accelerated Discovery of Solar Photocatalysts. ACS Catal. 9, 12, 11774-11787.
Will the student visit the premises of an industry partner, or undertake any activity on premises external to UNSW?	No

Project Title:	Learn Like a Doctor, Build Like an Engineer
Name of Supervisor:	Firoozeh Babayekhorasani
Email of Supervisor:	f.babayekhorasani@unsw.edu.au
Name of Joint/Co-Supervisor:	.
Email of Joint/Co-Supervisor:	.
School:	School of Chemical Engineering
Faculty Research Area (Theme):	Education
Applicable to other Engineering schools/disciplines:
Terms:	Term 2
Abstract:	This project explores how innovative lifelong learning (LLL) practices from healthcare can inspire new ways for engineers to continue developing their skills and knowledge throughout their careers. Healthcare has pioneered approaches such as simulation-based training, reflective practice, and structured continuing professional development (CPD), which have proven effective in keeping professionals agile and future-ready. In this project, you will investigate these healthcare models, compare them with current engineering practices, and design a practical prototype tailored for engineers. This could take the form of a reflective learning toolkit, a peer-learning initiative, or a structured CPD pathway adapted to different career stages. The focus is on creating a hands-on, applied outcome that demonstrates how cross-sector insights can enrich engineering practice.
Research Environment:	You will join a supportive research team in the School of Chemical Engineering at UNSW, working alongside experts in engineering education and innovative learning design. The environment fosters creativity and applied thinking, giving you opportunities to engage with real-world professional development frameworks, contribute to collaborative discussions, and draw insights from cross-sector case studies.
Novelty and Contribution:	.
Expected Outcomes:	A comparative analysis of lifelong learning practices in healthcare and engineering. Identification of transferable strategies that can strengthen lifelong learning in engineering. A prototype model (e.g., toolkit, CPD pathway, or program design) adapted for engineering practice. A research report and presentation showcasing findings and practical recommendations.
Reference Material Links:	Elendu, C., Amaechi, D. C., Okatta, A. U., Amaechi, E. C., Elendu, T. C., Ezeh, C. P., & Elendu, I. D. (2024). The impact of simulation-based training in medical education: A review. Medicine, 103(27), e38813. Thwe, W. P., & Kalman, A. (2024). Lifelong learning in the educational setting: A systematic literature review. The Asia-Pacific Education Researcher, 33(2), 407-417.
Will the student visit the premises of an industry partner, or undertake any activity on premises external to UNSW?	No

Project Title:	Light-assisted electrochemical methane oxidation into valuable chemicals
Name of Supervisor:	Dr Shujie Zhou
Email of Supervisor:	shujie.zhou@unsw.edu.au
Name of Joint/Co-Supervisor:	Dr Michael Gunawan
Email of Joint/Co-Supervisor:	michael.gunawan@unsw.edu
School:	School of Chemical Engineering
Faculty Research Area (Theme):	Energy Systems, Renewable and Non-Renewable
Applicable to other Engineering schools/disciplines:
Terms:	Term 2
Abstract:	Please refer to project information on the Faculty Taste of Research - Advertised Taste of Research areas: https://www.unsw.edu.au/engineering/student-life/undergraduate-research-opportunities/advertised-taste-research-areas
Research Environment:	The student will have the opportunity to work in the Particles and Catalysis Research Group (PartCat) under the guidance of Dr Shujie Zhou and Dr Michael Gunawan. The student will have access to well-equipped laboratories with experimental facilities and computational tools. The student will work in a multidisciplinary research environment and learn various functional skills to facilitate future career in academic or industry.
Novelty and Contribution:	.
Expected Outcomes:	The student is expected to gain experience in materials synthesis and characterisation as well as photoelectrochemical activity measurements. This is an extended project based on preliminary results and the generated knowledge and data will result in a publication. The project will also allow the student to work with other research students to gain valuable interdisciplinary experience. Continuing the research as an 4th year honour thesis project is possible.
Reference Material Links:	(1) J. Am. Chem. Soc. 2023, 145, 12, 6927–6943 (2) ACS Omega 2024, 9, 44, 44549–44558
Will the student visit the premises of an industry partner, or undertake any activity on premises external to UNSW?	No

Project Title:	Next-Generation PEI-Based Solid Sorbents for Efficient Direct Air Capture (DAC)
Name of Supervisor:	Dr Bingqiao Xie
Email of Supervisor:	bingqiao.xie@unsw.edu.au
Name of Joint/Co-Supervisor:	Dr Qiyuan Li
Email of Joint/Co-Supervisor:	qiyuan.li@unsw.edu.au, r.amal@unsw.edu.au
School:	School of Chemical Engineering
Faculty Research Area (Theme):	Solids and Applied Mechanics
Applicable to other Engineering schools/disciplines:
Terms:	Term 2
Abstract:	Direct air capture (DAC) is emerging as a critical technology for achieving net-zero emissions, but its deployment is currently limited by the performance and energy requirements of CO? adsorbents. Among various materials, poly(ethylenimine) (PEI)-based solid sorbents supported on porous substrates (e.g., silica or alumina) have shown strong potential due to their high affinity toward CO? at low concentrations (~400 ppm). However, challenges remain in balancing adsorption capacity, kinetics, stability, and regenerability under realistic operating conditions. This project aims to synthesise and evaluate PEI-based solid sorbents for DAC applications. The student will prepare supported amine sorbents using wet impregnation methods and investigate their CO? capture performance under simulated air conditions. Key variables such as PEI loading, support structure, and adsorption/desorption conditions will be systematically studied.
Research Environment:	The student will have the opportunity to join the Particles and Catalysis Research Group (PartCat) under the supervision of Dr Bingqiao Xie, Dr. Qiyuan Li and Prof Rose Amal. The student will have access to state-of-the-art laboratories equipped with advanced experimental facilities for sorbent synthesis and gas adsorption testing. This project offers a multidisciplinary research environment where the student will develop a broad set of technical and professional skills, supporting future career opportunities in both academia and industry.
Novelty and Contribution:	.
Expected Outcomes:	The student is expected to:Gain hands-on experience in sorbent synthesis and gas adsorption measurements; Understand key performance metrics in DAC (capacity, kinetics, cyclic stability); Develop skills in data analysis and interpretation of adsorption behaviour; Contribute to a dataset that supports ongoing research on DAC materials.Continuation of the research as an Honours thesis project is possible.
Reference Material Links:	1. Lashaki, M. J.; Khiavi, S.; Sayari, A. Chem. Soc. Rev., 2019, 48, 3320–3405. 2. Varni, A. J.; Braunecker, W. A.; Andrade, M. F. C.; et al. Chem, 2026, 12, 3. 3. Meng, Y.; Jiang, J. G.; Aihemaiti, A.; et al. ACS Appl. Mater. Interfaces, 2019, 11, 33781–33791. 4. Li, S. C.; Guta, Y.; Andrade, M. F. C.; et al. J. Am. Chem. Soc., 2024, 146, 28201–28213. 5. Carneiro, J. S. A.; Innocenti, G.; Moon, H. J.; et al. Angew. Chem. Int. Ed., 2023, 62. 6. Guta, Y. A.; Carneiro, J.; Li, S. C.; et al. ACS Appl. Mater. Interfaces, 2023, 15, 46790–46802. 7. Sadykova, I. I.; Michel, B.; Mansour, C.; et al. Chemical Engineering Journal, 2026, 527, 172104.
Will the student visit the premises of an industry partner, or undertake any activity on premises external to UNSW?	No

Project Title:	Optimizing Electrochemical Scanning Tunnelling Microscopy (STM) Tips for Imaging Electrochemical Rea
Name of Supervisor:	Qingfeng Zhai
Email of Supervisor:	qingfeng.zhai@unsw.edu.au
Name of Joint/Co-Supervisor:	Zhenhai Xia
Email of Joint/Co-Supervisor:	zhenhai.xia@unsw.edu.au
School:	School of Chemical Engineering
Faculty Research Area (Theme):	MEMS, Micro & Nano Technologies
Applicable to other Engineering schools/disciplines:
Terms:	Term 2
Abstract:	Electrochemical reactions play an important role in technologies such as batteries, hydrogen production, and environmental sensing. To better understand how these reactions occur, scientists often use advanced microscopes that can observe surfaces at extremely small scales. One such tool is the electrochemical scanning tunnelling microscope (EC-STM), which allows researchers to visualize materials and reactions at the nanoscale while they are occurring in a liquid environment. The aim of this project is to improve the preparation of EC-STM tips, which are very sharp metal probes used to scan and image material surfaces. The shape, cleanliness, and stability of these tips strongly influence the quality of the images obtained. In this project, the student will help explore different methods to produce stable and high-quality tips and test their performance in simple electrochemical experiments. The student will work closely with a senior researcher and have the opportunity to join a small research team comprising postgraduate students and early-career researchers in the laboratory. Through this experience, the student will gain hands-on exposure to modern nanoscience techniques, learn basic laboratory skills, and see how researchers collaborate to solve scientific problems related to energy and electrochemical technologies.
Research Environment:	This interdisciplinary project which will be carried out at the Australia Carbon Materials Centre (A-CMC) and ARC Centre of Excellence for Carbon Science and Innovation. A-CMC is a well-known research centre with many high-profile academics in the related areas, equipped with the required instruments for this work. This project will involve ECSTM tip fabrication, coating, catalyst synthesis and characterisation, ECSTM machine operation and imaging demonstration. at SEB at UNSW.
Novelty and Contribution:	.
Expected Outcomes:	Expected outcomes will include understanding the working principle of the EC-STM instrument and optimisation of EC-STM tips for stable nanoscale imaging of electrochemical interfaces. The project will allow students to work in a research team with postgraduate students and researchers to develop skills in problem solving, experimental design and academic communication. Students will also gain basic training in electrochemical experiments and characterisation techniques. The research may contribute to ongoing projects in the group and could lead to a publication in a peer-reviewed journal.
Reference Material Links:	1. Insights into electrocatalysis by scanning tunnelling microscopy. Chemical Society Reviews, 2021, 50(10): 5832-5849. 2. Electrochemical scanning tunneling microscopy in electrocatalysis. Current Opinion in Electrochemistry, 2024, 46: 101512. 3. Operando visualization of the hydrogen evolution reaction with atomic-scale precision at different metal–graphene interfaces. Nature Catalysis, 2021, 4(10): 850-859. 4. Systematic electrochemical etching of various metal tips for tunneling spectroscopy and scanning probe microscop. Review of Scientific Instruments, 2021, 92(1).
Will the student visit the premises of an industry partner, or undertake any activity on premises external to UNSW?	No

Project Title:	Photocatalytic selective methane oxidation to methanol
Name of Supervisor:	Dr Denny Gunawan
Email of Supervisor:	denny.gunawan@unsw.edu.au
Name of Joint/Co-Supervisor:	Dr Bingqiao Xie, Prof Rose Amal
Email of Joint/Co-Supervisor:	bingqiao.xie@unsw.edu.au, r.amal@unsw.edu.au
School:	School of Chemical Engineering
Faculty Research Area (Theme):	Energy Systems, Renewable and Non-Renewable
Applicable to other Engineering schools/disciplines:
Terms:	Term 2
Abstract:	Methane is a far more potent greenhouse gas than carbon dioxide and accounts for around 20% of global emissions, many of which originate from non-point sources such as landfills, animal farms, composts, and sewers [1]. The partial oxidation of methane to methanol represents a promising strategy for methane abatement. As the simplest liquid carrier, methanol is an important chemical feedstock and a potential transportation fuel. Photocatalysis offers a solar-driven pathway for methane conversion under mild conditions [2]. However, despite its potential, photocatalytic methane oxidation still faces challenges related to activity, selectivity, and stability. Therefore, the effective design of photocatalysts and cocatalysts is essential. This project aims to develop efficient photocatalysts incorporating dual metal cocatalysts to enable selective methane oxidation to methanol. Fundamental insights into the reaction mechanisms will also be investigated.
Research Environment:	The student will have the opportunity to join the Particles and Catalysis Research Group (PartCat) under the supervision of Dr Denny Gunawan, Dr Bingqiao Xie, and Prof Rose Amal. The student will have access to state-of-the-art laboratories equipped with advanced experimental facilities and computational tools for photocatalysis research. This project offers a multidisciplinary research environment where the student will develop a broad set of technical and professional skills, supporting future career opportunities in both academia and industry.
Novelty and Contribution:	.
Expected Outcomes:	The student is expected to gain hands-on experience in nanomaterials synthesis and characterisation as well as photocatalytic activity measurements. The project will also allow the student to work with other research students to gain valuable interdisciplinary experience. The generated knowledge and data will result in a scientific journal publication. Continuation of the research as an Honours thesis project is possible.
Reference Material Links:	[1] Balcombe, P. et al. (2018). Methane emissions: choosing the right climate metric and time horizon. Environ. Sci. Processes Impacts 20, 1323-1339. [2] Li, X. et al. (2022). Methane transformation by photocatalysis. Nat. Rev. Mater. 7, 617-632.
Will the student visit the premises of an industry partner, or undertake any activity on premises external to UNSW?	No

Project Title:	Synthesis of environmentally friendly and electrically conducting graphene/polymer nanocomposites
Name of Supervisor:	Per Zetterlund
Email of Supervisor:	p.zetterlund@unsw.edu.au
Name of Joint/Co-Supervisor:	Vipul Agarwal
Email of Joint/Co-Supervisor:	.
School:	School of Chemical Engineering
Faculty Research Area (Theme):	Resources Engineering
Applicable to other Engineering schools/disciplines:
Terms:	Term 2
Abstract:	The material graphene was discovered in 2004 (Noble Prize awarded in 2010) â€“ it is the strongest material ever measured, and this is accompanied by a range of other extraordinary physical properties such as high thermal conductivity and high electrical conductivity. In this project, novel polymeric nanocomposites with superior physical properties will be prepared using graphene. The addition of graphene as a component of polymer nanocomposites results in superior material properties â€“ it is a way of combining â€œthe best of both worldsâ€? (polymer and graphene). However, both pristine graphene and graphene oxide are incompatible with most hydrophobic polymers, and do not form homogeneous polymer composites. This project specifically addresses these issues by employing graphene oxide as surfactant for synthesis of polymeric nanoparticles in miniemulsion, i.e. various monomers will be polymerized in aqueous miniemulsions in this way, thus generating novel materials. The obtained aqueous emulsions of polymer/graphene oxide will then be cast as films â€“ these films will subsequently be annealed (heat treatment) whereby graphene oxide is reduced, rendering the films electrically conductive. One of the current research challenges is to control the distribution of graphene throughout the material, and thereby control the electrical conductivity.
Research Environment:	The student will work in the well-equipped Cluster for Macromolecular Design (CAMD) laboratory alongside a large number of postgraduate students and postdoctoral researchers, the vast majority of whom are also involved in related research. This will be an ideal and stimulating environment to learn what research is all about.
Novelty and Contribution:	.
Expected Outcomes:	The main novelty in the present project lies in the fact that new means of preparing attractive graphene/polymer nanocomposite materials and nano-objects will be developed, which is of importance for design of nano-engineered materials with a wide range of applications. It is expected that the experimental work by the student will be included in an article for publication in a high impact international journal. Our research centre publishes a high number of papers per year, and small projects typically become part of larger research papers, thus contributing to the CV of the student (who would be a co- author).
Reference Material Links:	n/a
Will the student visit the premises of an industry partner, or undertake any activity on premises external to UNSW?	No

Project Title:	Using machine learning for polymer discovery in water treatment applications
Name of Supervisor:	Dr Naras Rao
Email of Supervisor:	n.hanumanthrao@unsw.edu.au
Name of Joint/Co-Supervisor:	.
Email of Joint/Co-Supervisor:	.
School:	School of Chemical Engineering
Faculty Research Area (Theme):	Water and Wastewater Engineering
Applicable to other Engineering schools/disciplines:
Terms:	Term 2
Abstract:	Harmful algae and cyanobacteria are a growing problem for drinking water supplies because they can produce toxins and disrupt water treatment processes. One technology used by water utilities to remove these organisms is dissolved air flotation (PosiDAF), where tiny bubbles attach to particles and float them to the surface for removal. Recent research shows that specially designed polymers can improve how bubbles capture algae and cyanobacteria. This project will analyse an existing dataset of about 50 polymers used in PosiDAF systems to identify patterns that explain why some polymers work better than others. The student will work closely with Dr Naras Rao within a small research team of postgraduate students. The aim is to develop guidelines for designing improved next-generation polymers for water treatment.
Research Environment:	The project will be undertaken in the Algae & Organic Matter (AOM) Lab within the EnviroLab research cluster in the School of Chemical Engineering at UNSW. EnviroLab brings together researchers working on water quality, environmental monitoring, and advanced treatment technologies. The student will work under the supervision of Dr Naras Rao, a researcher in advanced water treatment and environmental technologies. Dr Rao is a recent recipient of an ARC DECRA Fellowship and has previously held Marie Curie and Fulbright fellowships. The student will join a small and collaborative research team within the AOM Lab, working closely with postgraduate researchers in a supportive environment that enables regular interaction and direct supervision.
Novelty and Contribution:	.
Expected Outcomes:	The project is expected to identify key relationships between polymer properties and algae removal performance in PosiDAF systems. The findings will form the basis of a peer-reviewed research publication and contribute to ongoing work on designing next-generation polymers for water treatment. This study will provide a foundation for future research in this area. If the project progresses well, the student may also have the opportunity to present the work at a leading conference in the water or environmental engineering field.
Reference Material Links:	https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acsanm.4c00430 https://pubs.acs.org/doi/full/10.1021/acspolymersau.5c00057
Will the student visit the premises of an industry partner, or undertake any activity on premises external to UNSW?	No

Projects offered by other Engineering Schools that may be of interest are:

Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering