Research degrees
PhD
Scholarship in Environmental ChemistryThis project will require a significant amount of laboratory based research which will primarily be conducted in the Centre for Environmental Risk Assessment and Remediation (CERAR) laboratories at the University of South Australia. The project will also involve interaction with nanotechnologists and environmental scientists in external laboratories and a significant component of synchrotron-based research.
Environmental risk assessment of nanomaterials used for soil and groundwater remediation
Prof Enzo Lombi, Prof Ravi Naidu, and Dr Erica Donner
Recent decades have seen sustained growth in the use of nanotechnology for a wide range of applications. As a result, the release of manufactured nanomaterials to the environment is increasing. Manufactured nanomaterials can deliver major benefits to modern society but it is important to ensure that their use is environmentally sound. This PhD research project will focus on the risk assessment of nanomaterials designed for use in the remediation of contaminated soil and groundwater (e.g. nanoscale zero valent iron). Novel methodologies for quantifying the environmental mobility of these materials will be developed, and the bioavailability and toxicity of both the manufactured nanomaterials themselves and of the contaminants that become associated with them upon their use in contaminated environments will be assessed.
The successful applicant will receive $28,715 per annum for a maximum of 3 years to support their living expenses whilst undertaking PhD research on the project. This scholarship will be funded by CRC CARE
Relevant qualifications may include chemical sciences, environmental science, nanotechnology etc.
Closing date is 15 February 2012.
In the first instance, applicants should contact Dr Erica Donner, email erica.donner@unisa.edu.au
