This project aims to develop advanced, integrated approaches for the recovery of rare earth elements (REEs) from Australian mine waste streams, including tailings storage facilities. By combining mineralogical characterisation with innovative extraction and separation technologies, the research will identify technically viable and economically scalable pathways for REE recovery from low-grade and complex waste materials. The project addresses a critical national priority by contributing to the diversification of Australia’s rare earth supply chain while reducing environmental liabilities associated with mine waste. Outcomes will provide a framework for sustainable resource recovery, supporting the transition towards circular mining practices and strengthening Australia’s position in the global critical minerals sector.
Aim
- To characterise and quantify rare earth element (REE) potential in Australian mine waste streams, with a focus on tailings storage facilities and low-grade residues.
- To develop and optimise integrated extraction and separation pathways for efficient recovery of REEs from complex and low-grade waste materials.
- To evaluate the technical, economic, and environmental performance of proposed recovery strategies, enabling scalable and sustainable implementation.
- To establish a framework for circular resource recovery from mine wastes, supporting Australia’s critical minerals strategy and reducing long-term environmental liabilities.
Objectives
- Resource characterisation and targeting: Conduct detailed mineralogical, geochemical, and spatial characterisation of selected Australian mine waste streams to identify and prioritise REE-bearing materials with recovery potential.
- Process development and optimisation: Design and optimise integrated extraction flowsheets (e.g., hydrometallurgical, bioleaching, and hybrid approaches) tailored to low-grade and complex tailings matrices.
- Separation and purification of REEs: Develop efficient downstream processing techniques (e.g., solvent extraction, ion exchange) to achieve selective recovery and production of high-purity rare earth products.
- Geotechnical and environmental performance assessment: Evaluate the impact of extraction processes on tailings stability, water quality, and long-term environmental risks, ensuring alignment with sustainable closure practices.
- Techno-economic and scalability analysis: Assess the economic feasibility, process scalability, and lifecycle performance of the proposed recovery strategies under realistic industry conditions.
- Framework development for implementation: Integrate technical, environmental, and economic outcomes into a decision-making framework to support industry adoption of REE recovery from mine wastes.
Significance
This project addresses a critical gap in the sustainable supply of rare earth elements (REEs) by targeting underutilised mine waste streams as an alternative resource. Unlike conventional approaches that rely on primary mining, this research advances a circular resource paradigm by integrating resource recovery with waste management and mine closure strategies. The project is novel in its combined focus on mineralogical complexity, process optimisation, and system-level evaluation, enabling the development of scalable and site-specific recovery solutions for low-grade and heterogeneous tailings. The outcomes will have a significant national and international impact. At a national level, the research directly supports Australia’s Critical Minerals Strategy by contributing to the diversification and security of REE supply chains. At an industry level, it provides technically viable pathways to convert environmental liabilities into economic assets, reducing long-term closure costs and risks. Environmentally, the project contributes to minimising the footprint of mining by reducing the need for new extraction and improving the management of legacy waste. By delivering an integrated technical and decision-making framework, this research will position Australia at the forefront of sustainable and circular mining practices, with strong potential for translation into industry applications and policy development.
Ideal Candidate
We seek a highly motivated PhD candidate with a strong background in mining engineering, metallurgy, chemical engineering, or a related field. Experience in mineral processing, geochemistry, or tailings management is desirable. The candidate should demonstrate strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to conduct experimental research and interpret complex data. Familiarity with hydrometallurgical processes or materials characterisation is advantageous. The applicant must be capable of working independently and collaboratively, with excellent communication skills and a strong interest in sustainable mining and critical minerals research. 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
Through this project you will also have an internship opportunity. The project has strong potential for industry engagement, with ongoing discussions with mining and resources companies interested in rare earth recovery from mine wastes. It is anticipated that the HDR candidate will undertake an industry placement focused on applying developed methodologies to real-world tailings and waste streams. This will provide valuable exposure to operational environments, facilitate access to industry data and materials, and support the translation of research outcomes into practical applications aligned with current industry needs.
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 Dr Roohollah Shirani Faradonbeh at Roohollah.Shiranifaradonbeh@curtin.edu.au
To formally apply submit an Expression of Interest to Dr Roohollah Shirani Faradonbeh during the Central Scholarship round (July 1st – July 31st 2026)