Quest for Sustainable Electrochemical Energy Storage System

It is well recognized that energy generated from renewable sources instead of burning fossil fuels reduces greenhouse gas emissions. Developing reliable energy storage systems plays an essential role in boosting renewable energy utilisation. Among all electrical energy storage technologies, rechargeable batteries are the best choice owing to their high energy

density, flexible and lightweight design, and longer lifespan. Recently, aqueous rechargeable batteries have attracted significant research interest due to the increasing demand for safer and cheaper energy storage batteries. Among the aqueous batteries, aqueous Zn-ion batteries are cost-effective and safe for operation and maintenance because of using low-cost electrode materials and neutral aqueous electrolytes.

This project aims to develop high performance aqueous zinc-ion batteries for grid scale renewable energy storage. Rechargeable zinc-ion battery is a promising electrochemical energy storage technology owing to its high safety, low-cost and environmental friendliness. By developing high-capacity cathode materials, dendrite-free zinc metal anodes and advanced electrolytes, this project expects to achieve practical aqueous zinc-ion batteries with high energy density, long cycle life and cost-effectiveness. The deployment of zinc-ion batteries will enable integration of renewable energies and stabilisation of electricity networks. This project will provide excellent training opportunities in the areas of energy materials, electrochemistry and battery technology.

Applicants must be a domestic student - either Australian permanent residents or New Zealand citizens. To be eligible for this applicantion, applicants must have completed a UTS recognised degree in

• MSc Research or MSc Coursework with a research thesis of at least 6 months,

• or Bachelor Honours degree with 1st Class, or 2nd Class Division 1, or division 1 honours, or an equivalent or higher qualification,

• or submitted other evidence of general and professional qualifications that demonstrates potential to pursue graduate research studies.

Selection criteria includes research potential, research experience, quality of the research proposal, alignment with the UTS Research Strategy and the strategic goals of the field of specialisation, and the Faculty's ability to offer appropriate supervision in the applicant's chosen field.

Applicants should send their CV, list of publications, and selection criteria to contact person’s email address by the closing date. Shortlisted candidates will be advised with further details.

For further Information on UTS Graduate Research applications please follow application essentials in this link.

Please contact the following person for further information.

Name: Guoxiu Wang

Email: [email protected]

The University of Technology Sydney is Australia’s Top Young University and ranked within the Top 200 universities worldwide. UTS has a growing reputation for highly applied research that leaves a lasting positive impact on the world in which we live. Its vibrant campus is located in the center of Sydney, with easy access to all amenities and transport that is ideally suited for PhD student living.

The Future Battery Industries Cooperative Research Centre is enabling the growth of battery industries to power Australia’s future. We bring together industry, researchers, governments and the community to ensure Australia plays a leading role in the global battery revolution. Our work is critical in making our industries more competitive by harnessing the research skills and industry expertise required to create new economic opportunities.

$32,500 per year (RTP Stipend rate, indexed annually); additional funds ($7.5k) during the course of the PhD for travel and other PhD-related expenses.

3.5 years

Open

Open.

14/03/2023

01/11/2023