An opportunity is available for a PhD candidate to undertake a research project on a low emission ironmaking technology – direct reduction of Pilbara ores, in collaboration with BlueScope Steel at the University of Wollongong (UOW). The candidate will investigate experimentally the fundamental aspects of the raw material preparation and direct reduction of Pilbara ores, with opportunities for both industrial and academic experience and career development.
An exciting opportunity is now available for a PhD candidate to undertake a research project on a future, low-emission ironmaking technology – direct reduction of Pilbara ores. Based at the University of Wollongong (UOW) in the School of Mechanical, Materials, Mechatronic and Biomedical Engineering, the project is one of several related collaborations with BlueScope Steel.
The specific research aims are to investigate the fundamentals of pelletisation of Pilbara ores, and the direct reduction of these ores in hydrogen-rich gases. The research is part of a larger programme investigating the sustainability of iron and steelmaking through direct reduction of Pilbara ores and their smelting in an electric smelting furnace. This larger programme includes complex physical experiments and numerical studies. The PhD candidate will work within a team of UOW investigators and their industrial partner investigators, and be trained to undertake high-quality, high temperature experimental research.
There will be ample opportunity for the PhD candidate to work in both industrial and academic environments, and hence, develop industry-related project management skills. The professional training and personal development through this project and the university’s overall mentoring scheme, will help prepare the candidate for a career in academia or industry.
Faculty: Faculty of Engineering and Information Sciences
Study area: Chemistry, Engineering, Environmental & Biological Science, Physics
Student type: Domestic students, International students
Student status: Current student, Future Students
Scholarship amount
Successful candidates will receive a tax-free stipend of up to $AUD 40,000 per annum for the duration of the award.
Duration
3.5 years
Application process
Applicants should submit a cover letter detailing relevant experience and research interest; CV with names and addresses of two referees; and academic transcripts.
- We seek applicants from diverse backgrounds, reflecting all facets of prior experience or history.
- The EOI should be sent via email to Xuefeng Dong (xuefeng_dong@uow.edu.au) and Ray Longbottom (ray_longbottom@uow.edu.au).
Eligibility requirements
Essential
- Academic qualification. Applicants should hold an honours (or equivalent) undergraduate degree, or a Masters degree, in a closely related discipline, or the equivalent combination of professional experience and academic qualifications
- High level written and verbal communication skills in English, presenting research work and outcomes to both the industrial and academic communities
Highly Desirable
- Knowledge in metallurgical processes, specifically with a background in ironmaking or steelmaking
- Experience in one or more areas: materials characterisation, pyrometallurgy, materials engineering, or thermo-physics
- Good experimental skills, and ability to work collaboratively as part of a multi-disciplinary team
- (Desirable but not essential) Experience in high temperature experimentation
Application closing date
31 May 2025
Contact information
Ray Longbottom