Chemical surface modification of recycled Carbon fibres for enhanced composite performance
Applications close on 15 March 2026
Supporting a PhD candidate to enhance recycled carbon fibres through surface functionalisation and composite mechanical performance evaluation.
Key details
Project supervisor
Deakin school and faculty
Additional supervisors
Location
Geelong Waurn Ponds Campus
Value and duration
This scholarship is available over three years and offers:
- a stipend of $37,450 per annum tax exempt (2026 rate)
- a relocation allowance of $500–1,500 (for single to family) for students moving from interstate
For international students, the awardee will also receive:
- tuition fees offset for the duration of four years
- single Overseas Student Health Cover policy for the duration of the student visa.
Research aim
Candidates will learn to covalently graft highly tailorable surface functionality to the graphitic surface of recycled carbon fibres, then mechanically evaluate the properties and performance of the resulting composite materials. This project will fundamentally centre around both organic chemistry and composite material production/mechanical testing. Candidates should become highly competent in both areas by the completion of their PhD.
Background information
This project will see candidates bringing cutting edge carbon fibre research principles to recycled carbon fibre varieties. Currently underutilised, recycled carbon fibres present an opportunity to improve the composite materials circular economy if uptake and use of these materials can be increased. One approach to accomplish this is to broaden the viable applications of these materials through changing and enhancing their surface chemistry. This project seeks to advance this currently underexplored avenue of composites research.
Am I eligible?
To be eligible you must:
- meet Deakin's PhD entry requirements
- enrol full time
- hold an honours degree (first class) or an equivalent standard masters degree with a substantial research component
- be an international student
Please refer to the research degree entry pathways page for further information.
Additional requirement:
- must commence by June 30th 2026
Ready to apply?
Please email your CV; a cover letter (one page maximum); academic transcripts and contact details of two referees to Dr Ben Newman. Shortlisted applicants may be invited to attend an interview. The successful candidate will then be invited to submit a formal application.
Research degree entry requirements
Set yourself up for success. Each type of Deakin research degree has specific entry requirements designed to ensure that graduate researchers are well prepared for the challenges of advanced study.
Contact us
If you would like more information or have any questions about this scholarship, please contact the project supervisors.
