Kate Nguyen

RMIT University is recruiting two PhD candidates to join the RMIT Fire Group / IFFE team in Melbourne, Australia. The projects sit at the intersection of materials science , chemical engineering , mechanical engineering , civil/fire engineering , and energy-storage research. Project 1: Solvolysis-Based Recycling and Circular Processing of Composite Materials focuses on developing advanced solvolysis processes for recycling thermoset fibre-reinforced composites from the renewable energy sector, including wind and tidal turbine components. The work includes resin degradation, recovery of high-quality carbon and glass fibres, process scale-up, material re-use, and circular-economy applications. Project 2: Battery Fire Safety and Nonflammable Electrolytes focuses on designing and characterising nonflammable and fire-safe liquid electrolytes, gel electrolytes, and solid-state electrolyte systems for safer lithium-ion and next-generation batteries. Research topics include electrolyte stability, SEI/CEI formation, thermal runaway, gas release, and cell- and pack-level fire testing. The team welcomes applicants with backgrounds in materials science , polymer engineering , composite materials , chemical engineering , mechanical/civil/fire engineering , electrochemistry , battery materials , electrolyte design , thermal analysis , or related disciplines. The opportunity is based at RMIT University, City Campus, Melbourne, Australia . Funding includes a competitive RMIT HDR stipend plus tuition fee support , subject to eligibility and selection. Interested applicants should contact Dr Thomas Loh or Dr Wei Wang with a CV including publication list, academic transcripts, a brief cover letter describing research interests and preferred project, and evidence of English proficiency if available. This is a strong fit for students interested in sustainable materials, polymer/composite recycling, battery safety, electrolyte engineering, and fire-safe energy technologies for a net-zero future.