The Structural Capillarity and Engineered Porous Media for Spontaneous Fluid Separation PhD Scholarship is a fully funded doctoral research scholarship offered by the Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Australia. The scholarship supports an outstanding PhD candidate who will investigate how the structural design of porous materials can control fluid behavior. The project is hosted within QUT’s Faculty of Engineering and combines research in capillarity, porous media, microfluidics, advanced manufacturing, and fluid mechanics. Moreover, the program enables scholars to conduct innovative research with significant engineering and environmental applications.

Background and Purpose

The scholarship aims to develop sustainable technologies that control fluid transport through engineered porous materials. Therefore, the research investigates how three-dimensional (3D) printed porous structures and engineered surface properties influence the movement and spontaneous separation of immiscible fluids. The project examines how geometry, wettability, and fluid properties interact to enable passive, energy-efficient liquid manipulation without external energy input. In addition, the research seeks to establish new design principles for advanced porous materials that improve separation technologies and reduce energy consumption.

Structural Capillarity and Engineered Porous Media for Spontaneous Fluid Separation PhD Scholarship Benefits

The scholarship provides comprehensive financial support throughout the PhD program. As a result, scholars can focus entirely on their research without financial concerns. The award includes a tax-free annual living stipend and tuition fee sponsorship for the approved candidature. Furthermore, recipients work with internationally recognized researchers and gain access to advanced laboratories, specialized research facilities, interdisciplinary collaborations, and professional development opportunities within QUT’s Faculty of Engineering.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the admission requirements for a Higher Degree by Research at QUT and demonstrate excellent academic achievement and strong research potential. A background in engineering, fluid mechanics, mechanical engineering, materials science, physics, or a closely related discipline is highly beneficial. In addition, applicants should demonstrate an interest in experimental research, fluid dynamics, porous materials, and advanced manufacturing.

Structural Capillarity and Engineered Porous Media for Spontaneous Fluid Separation PhD Scholarship Application Process

Applicants must apply for admission to the PhD program at QUT and submit all required academic documents and supporting materials within the application period. Afterwards, the University evaluates candidates based on their academic achievements, research experience, technical skills, and overall suitability for the research project.

Opportunities for Scholars

The scholarship enables students to work under the supervision of Professor Emilie Sauret, Professor Yi-Chin Toh, and Dr Zhongzheng Wang within a multidisciplinary research team. Moreover, scholars conduct laboratory experiments and theoretical analyses to develop innovative porous materials for passive fluid separation. Their research contributes to applications in environmental sustainability, wastewater treatment, food processing, pharmaceutical manufacturing, and petrochemical systems. Consequently, graduates develop advanced research expertise and prepare for successful careers in academia, research organizations, advanced manufacturing, and engineering industries.