PhD in Physical Metallurgy of Hydrogen-Based Iron Oxide Reduction
Not stated
- Location
- Melbourne, Australia, Australia
- Funding
- Funded PhD Project (Students Worldwide)
- Application deadline
- Year-round applications
About the project
About the Project Project description Host: Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Monash University Location: Clayton campus, Melbourne, Australia Duration: 3.5 years, full time Supervisor: Dr Yuxiang Wu, yuxiang.wu@monash.edu Start: 2027, flexible by agreement Stipend: AUD 41,100 per annum, tax free (2027 rate) Course code: 3291 Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) Project overview We are seeking an outstanding PhD candidate to investigate the physical metallurgy of hydrogen-based iron oxide reduction , with applications to low-carbon and green ironmaking. The project will investigate how phase transformations, reduction pathways and microstructure evolution interact during the conversion of iron oxides to metallic iron. Particular emphasis will be placed on how temperature, gas atmosphere, starting microstructure and ore chemistry influence reduction kinetics, porosity and the morphology of the resulting iron. The candidate will combine high-temperature reduction experiments with advanced materials characterisation and modelling. Techniques may include thermogravimetric analysis, in situ X-ray diffraction, SEM, EBSD, image analysis, thermodynamic calculations and kinetic modelling . The aim is to develop a microstructure-informed physical framework for iron oxide reduction , moving beyond purely empirical descriptions of reduction kinetics. Research environment The candidate will join the Metallurgy and Corrosion Research Cluster in the Department of Materials Science and Engineering at Monash University and work in a multidisciplinary environment spanning physical metallurgy, advanced characterisation, computational modelling and green ironmaking. Monash provides extensive facilities for high-temperature experimentation, in situ materials analysis, X-ray diffraction and electron microscopy. Candidate profile Applicants should have a background in Materials Science, Metallurgical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Physics , or a closely related discipline. Candidates should demonstrate: Strong interest in physical metallurgy, thermodynamics, kinetics and phase transformations. Ability to conduct independent, quantitative research. Strong communication and problem-solving skills. Previous experience with phase transformations, SEM/EBSD, XRD, thermal analysis, modelling or scientific programming is desirable. Note: Applicants who already hold a PhD degree will not be considered. How to apply Before submitting an Expression of Interest, please email Dr Yuxiang Wu at yuxiang.wu@monash.edu with your CV, academic transcripts and a brief description of your research interests.