RESEARCH FELLOW FOR THE CRC-P PROJECT (SUSTAINABLE HIGH PURITY ALUMINA PRODUCTION)
SCHOOL OF ENGINEERING
JOONDALUP CAMPUS
$101,332 TO $108,498 PA (LEVEL A)
FULL TIME, FIXED TERM - 2 YEARS

Overview
This is an exciting opportunity for a Research Fellow with a Ph.D. degree in chemical engineering or materials science to join our research team at Mineral Recovery Research Centre (MRRC), School of Engineering, Edith Cowan University, Joondalup, Western Australia. The successful candidate will contribute to an industry-focused Cooperative Research Centres Project (CRC-P) on the sustainable production of High Purity Alumina (HPA), led by Associate Professor Amir Razmjou in collaboration with industry partners.

We are seeking applicants with demonstrated experience in membrane technology, mineral processing, materials characterisation, or chemical separation technologies, and a strong track record of independent research and collaboration in multidisciplinary and international environments. In addition to research duties, the Research Fellow will also contribute to teaching and support for undergraduate Chemical Engineering units, helping to build the next generation of process engineers.

Key responsibilities will include:

• Design, fabricate, and optimise membranes for separation and purification systems for the production of high-purity alumina from mineral resources.
• Contribute to the scale-up of novel membrane systems and chemical processes from lab-scale to pilot-scale.
• Perform advanced characterisation of materials, including membranes and alumina products.
• Conduct experimental and theoretical work on membrane performance, filtration efficiency, and ion-selective separation.
• Publish high-quality research outputs in peer-reviewed journals and contribute to the development of intellectual property.
• Support grant writing, collaborative projects, and industry reports related to the HPA production process.
• Mentor junior researchers and contribute actively to the project’s research culture and industry engagement.
• Provide teaching support in Chemical Engineering units, including tutorials and lab demonstrations.

Selection Criteria:

• A Ph.D. degree in chemical engineering or materials science.
• Evidence of at least 5 recognised publications in the last 5 years.
• Active involvement in relevant projects with industry professions.
• Effective interpersonal, oral and written communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Strong background in membrane processes (e.g., MD, MCr, NF, etc.) for mineral recovery and water/wastewater treatment.
• Demonstrated ability to conduct high-level research independently and in multidisciplinary teams.
• Strong communication and academic writing skills, including experience with grant proposals and industry reporting.
• Proficiency in using analytical instruments for materials characterisation (e.g., SEM/EDX, XRD, AFM, etc.).
• Willingness and capability to contribute to teaching in undergraduate Chemical Engineering courses.
• International working experience in multidisciplinary teams.
• Experience in group management and mentoring students and research assistants.
• Priority will be given to Australian citizens or permanent residents to apply for this role.

Benefits & Remuneration
This fixed-term, full-time position attracts remuneration of $101,332 to $108,498 pa (LEVEL A), plus a 17% University superannuation contribution.

ECU supports a healthy work/life balance for staff. Flexible working arrangements may be negotiated to suit personal circumstances. Edith Cowan University offers an award-winning Health and Wellness Program and a wide range of staff benefits, including discounts across health, entertainment, travel, and more. Visit our website: Employment Opportunities Overview.

Contact
Questions about this scholarship can be directed to Associate professor Amir Razmjou at [email protected].

How to Apply
Please follow this link to begin your application: Employment Opportunities Overview.

Please upload your resume along with a statement addressing the selection criteria.

Closing Date:
Applications close on Friday 20 June 2025 at 11:30pm AWST.

PLEASE NOTE: APPLICATIONS WILL ONLY BE ACCEPTED FROM CANDIDATES WHO HAVE EITHER PERMANENT RESIDENCY OR AUSTRALIAN CITIZENSHIP.

ECU is a diverse and inclusive workplace reflecting the differences in society. Specific strategies and initiatives are in place to address underrepresentation of specific groups. Applications are encouraged from suitably qualified people from all backgrounds. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are strongly encouraged to apply.