This project investigates how biological conditioning environments influence carbon evolution behaviour during thermochemical conversion of waste-derived systems. The research challenges conventional assumptions surrounding thermal carbon evolution by exploring whether precursor organisation developed during biological processing can influence downstream carbon assembly behaviour during thermochemical transformation.
The project will combine biological conditioning, thermochemical conversion, advanced carbon characterisation, and thermal analysis to establish new insights into structure–function relationships governing carbon evolution in waste conversion systems.
The research sits at the intersection of:
• thermochemical conversion,
• carbon materials science,
• waste valorisation,
• non-equilibrium materials evolution,
• and sustainable process engineering.
The outcomes of this project are expected to contribute toward advanced waste conversion technologies and next-generation carbon materials research.
Aim
The aim of this project is to investigate the influence of biologically conditioned precursor organisation on carbon evolution behaviour during thermochemical waste conversion.
Objectives
The project will address the following objectives:
- Generate biologically conditioned precursor systems from waste-derived materials.
- Investigate how precursor organisation influences thermochemical carbon evolution behaviour.
- Examine relationships between precursor structure and thermal transformation pathways.
- Develop predictive understanding of carbon assembly behaviour in thermochemical waste conversion systems.
Significance
Thermochemical conversion of waste-derived materials offers a promising route for resource recovery, carbon material production, and circular economy development. However, current understanding of carbon evolution during these processes remains limited, particularly in relation to how precursor history influences final carbon structure and properties. This gap restricts the ability to design predictable and high-value carbon outputs from waste streams.
This project introduces a novel hypothesis that biologically induced precursor organisation can significantly influence downstream carbon evolution behaviour during thermochemical conversion. By linking biological conditioning with thermal transformation pathways, the research challenges conventional assumptions that carbon formation is governed primarily by operating conditions such as temperature and heating rate. Instead, it proposes that precursor structure plays a defining role in non-equilibrium carbon assembly.
The study is significant because it integrates biological processing, thermochemical conversion, and carbon materials science to develop a new mechanistic understanding of structure–function relationships in waste-derived systems. This could lead to improved predictive capability for carbon formation pathways and more controlled synthesis of functional carbon materials.
From an application perspective, the outcomes may enable more efficient waste valorisation strategies and support the production of tailored carbon materials for energy, environmental, and industrial applications. The research aligns with global priorities in circular economy development, waste reduction, and sustainable resource utilisation.
Overall, the project is expected to generate new fundamental insights into carbon evolution mechanisms while advancing next-generation waste-to-carbon conversion technologies.
Ideal Candidate
The preferred applicant will have a strong background in Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Environmental Engineering, or a closely related discipline, with demonstrated interest in thermochemical processes, waste-to-energy systems, or carbon materials. Prior exposure to laboratory-based experimental work, thermal analysis (e.g., TGA/DSC), or materials characterisation techniques (e.g., SEM, XRD, BET) will be highly advantageous. The candidate should possess strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret complex datasets. Experience in biological systems, waste processing, or reaction engineering is desirable. Excellent written and oral communication skills, together with the ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary research environment, are essential. Additionally, the applicants should meet the eligibility criteria for entry into a PhD program at Curtin University.
This project is open to International and Domestic applicants.
Internship
This internship offers hands-on research experience in advanced thermochemical waste conversion, carbon materials, and sustainable resource recovery. The intern will contribute to experimental and analytical studies investigating how precursor conditioning influences carbon evolution during thermochemical processes. Activities may include biological and thermal processing of waste-derived materials, material characterisation, data analysis, and interpretation of structure–property relationships.
Scholarship
If you are identified as the preferred candidate for this project, you may be considered for an RTP scholarship.
Enquires and How to Apply
For enquires about this opportunity contact Professor Hari Vuthaluru at H.Vuthaluru@curtin.edu.au
To formally apply submit an Expression of Interest to Professor Hari Vuthaluru during the Central Scholarship round (July 1st – July 31st 2026)