Full-time, fixed-term position for up to 12 months
Base salary will be in the range $80,448.78 - $107,104.10 + 17% Superannuation (Academic Level A)
Visa sponsorship is not available for this position
Based at our St Lucia Campus - Brisbane
We are seeking a Postdoctoral Research Fellow/Research Officer to join our project aimed at reducing CO₂ emissions from steelmaking operations. This role focuses on developing new processing methods to enable biomass to be used as a reducing agent in blast furnace operations, helping curb the approximately 7% of global CO₂ emissions attributed to steelmaking.
At UQ, we are leveraging decades of expertise in coke production from coal to explore how biomass can be used to create stronger, more sustainable coke. This research will investigate the mechanisms behind biomass-related strength loss and identify new blending approaches to support industrial decarbonisation.
The role involves extensive laboratory work, using equipment such as grinders, pelletisers, furnaces, and polishers, along with analytical techniques including high-temperature rheometry, thermogravimetric analysis, X-ray micro-CT, optical microscopy, 13C NMR, and BET surface area analysis.
You will also be responsible for reporting results and engaging with both scientific and industry stakeholders.
Research
Set-up and operate pyrolysis experiments, identifying and troubleshooting issues as they arise.
Use BET surface area analysis and SAXS analysis to characterise the micro and mesoporosity of char samples produced.
Use optical microscopy and X-ray micro-CT to generate images of coke samples.
Use ImageJ and GEODICT software to analyse micro-CT image scans and obtain quantified information on pore sizes and volumes.
Use analytical equipment to obtain structural information, including 13C NMR and XPS.
Use molecular and microstructural information to elucidate the chemical and physical mechanisms occurring that underpin the coke strength values obtained.
Publish research outcomes in the form of scientific and technical reports to participating industries and in the form of high-quality refereed journal publications.
Present key findings to industry monitors and engage in discussions on their significance and necessary directions for future research.
Support the application for external and internal grant funding for research.
Maintain safe operation within group laboratories, following relevant OH&S requirements.
Develop a coherent research program and an emerging research profile.
Support other group members with research activities.
This is a research focused position. Further information can be found by viewing UQ’s Criteria for Academic Performance.
As part of the UQ community, you will have the opportunity to work alongside the brightest minds, who have joined us from all over the world, and within an environment where interdisciplinary collaborations are encouraged.
At the core of our teaching remains our students, and their experience with us sets a foundation for success far beyond graduation. UQ has made a commitment to making education opportunities available for all Queenslanders, regardless of personal, financial, or geographical barriers.
As part of our commitment to excellence in research and professional practice in academic contexts, we are proud to provide our staff with access to world-class facilities and equipment, grant writing support, greater research funding opportunities, and other forms of staff support and development.
The greater benefits of joining the UQ community are broad: from being part of a Group of Eight university, to recognition of prior service with other Australian universities, up to 26 weeks of paid parental leave, 17.5% annual leave loading, flexible working arrangements including hybrid on site/WFH options and flexible start/finish times, and genuine career progression opportunities via the academic promotions process.
PhD or near completion of a PhD in the area of Chemical Engineering, Material Science, or related fields is desirable.
Demonstrated knowledge and experience in the development and operation of high temperature pyrolysis experiments is desirable.
Demonstrated knowledge and experience in using analytical equipment for sample characterisation is desirable.
Experience in publishing high quality research papers in high impact scientific journals, and technical reports to participating industries is desirable.
Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a multi-disciplinary team.
The successful candidate may be required to complete a number of pre-employment checks, including: right to work in Australia and education check.
Work Rights
You must maintain unrestricted work rights in Australia for the duration of this appointment to apply. Employer sponsored work rights are not available for this appointment.
For more information about this opportunity, please contact Associate Professor Karen Steel via karen.steel@uq.edu.au. For application inquiries, please reach out to the Talent Acquisition team at talent@uq.edu.au, stating the job reference number (below) in the subject line.
All applicants must upload the following documents in order for your application to be considered:
Resume
Cover letter addressing the ‘About You’ section
UQ is committed to a fair, equitable and inclusive selection process, which recognises that some applicants may face additional barriers and challenges which have impacted and/or continue to impact their career trajectory. Candidates who do not meet all criteria are encouraged to apply and demonstrate their potential. The selection panel considers both potential and performance relative to opportunities when assessing suitability for the role.
We know one of our strengths as an institution lies in our diverse colleagues. We are dedicated to equity, diversity, and inclusion, fostering an environment that mirrors our wider community. We are committed to attracting, retaining, and promoting diverse talent. Reach out to talent@uq.edu.au for accessibility support or adjustments.
Applications close on Friday, 30 May 2025 at 11.00pm AEST (R-50952).