Solve global problems through material design with a PhD or Masters at the Deakin Institute for Frontier Materials.
Do you want to solve some of the world’s biggest challenges? Have you got a background in engineering, chemistry, metallurgy, textile science, applied science or molecular modelling?
At the Deakin Institute for Frontier Materials our research is uncovering cleaner, safer energy; tackling the war on waste; reducing the harmful impacts of industries on our environment; and potentially saving billions of dollars for the global economy.
We are always on the lookout for high-quality Higher Degree by Research (HDR) candidates who are curious problem solvers with a passion for research. Higher degrees by research are fee-free for domestic candidates.
By completing a higher degree by research at Deakin Institute for Frontier Materials, you will:
- Unlock higher earning potential — Deakin postgraduates earn 36% higher salaries than undergraduates
- New career opportunities — not available to those without an HDR degree
- Attain skills valued by every employer — we’re the #1 ranked university in Australia for graduate employment
- Become an expert in your field of work — we’re in the top 1% of universities for global research impact, meaning you’ll contribute to a field you’re passionate about
- Access a globally connected research community — via our network of 500+ leading organisations across 65 countries
- Access world-class facilities — enhancing your skills development
- Study at a world-leading university — Deakin is ranked in the top 1% of universities globally
PhD candidates who receive a Deakin University Postgraduate Research Scholarship (DUPRS) get:
- A stipend of $35,550 per annum tax exempt (2025 rate)
- A stipend of $37,450 per annum tax exempt (2026 rate)
- Full tuition fee waiver for up to 4 years
- Relocation allowance (for students arriving from interstate or overseas) from $500 to $1,500 (for single to family)
- And, for international students only, Single Overseas Student Health Cover policy for the duration of the student visa
Available Higher Degree by Research (HDR) Scholarships
Rapid Prototyping and Manufacture of Metal Bipolar Plates for Hydrogen Fuel Cells and Electrolysers
Are you interested in helping accelerate the development of next-generation hydrogen technologies?
We are offering a fully funded PhD opportunity to develop a new manufacturing approach for the rapid prototyping and production of metal bipolar plates for fuel cell and electrolyser applications. Bipolar plates are critical components that strongly influence performance, durability, cost, and manufacturability, yet rapid development and low-volume prototyping of these parts remains a major challenge.
This project will address that challenge by combining advanced sheet metal forming, rapid tooling, experimental characterisation, and computational modelling to develop new methods for producing high-quality bipolar plate components. The research will be jointly supported by the Deakin Institute for Frontier Materials and the Deakin Hydrogen Hub, providing a unique opportunity to work across advanced manufacturing and hydrogen technology development.This project is ideal for candidates seeking to build expertise at the intersection of advanced manufacturing and hydrogen energy systems through industry-relevant, high-impact research.
To learn more contact:
Professor Matthias Weiss
Associate Professor Michael Pereira
Advancing sustainable aluminium can recycling
Aluminium beverage cans are a cornerstone of sustainable packaging—lightweight, highly recyclable, and used worldwide. Yet their manufacture still depends on two separate alloy systems for the body and lid, a dual‑alloy approach that complicates production, scrap handling, and recycling.
This PhD project, part of the Baosteel Group Co. Australia Joint Research and Development Centre (BAJC), tackles a critical sustainability and manufacturing challenge: designing a better‑optimised aluminium alloy that reduces material usage and moves can production closer to a single‑alloy solution for both body and lid applications.
Why complete this PhD?
- Work on a project combining physical metallurgy, alloy design and sustainable manufacturing
- Contribute to the development of next-generation aluminium alloys for high-volume industrial
applications - Be part of a project with strong industry relevance and translational potential
- Help address a major sustainability challenge in the packaging sector
Who should apply?
Are you currently residing in Australia? Have you completed your Masters and ready to embark on a career in research?
We welcome applications from motivated candidates in Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, Metallurgy, Physics, or related disciplines, particularly those interested in metal forming, microstructure– property relationships, advanced characterisation, and sustainable materials.
To learn more: Thomas Dorin, thomas.dorin@deakin.edu.au
Frequently asked questions – Completing a PhD
What degrees are available?
Can I get a scholarship?
Australian Government and Deakin funded scholarships are available to help pay for course fees and living costs, and a number of our projects come with externally funded scholarships.
Learn more about Higher Degrees by Research (HDR) at Deakin including entry requirements, here.
How do I apply?
If you are interested in becoming a HDR candidate with IFM, please visit the how-to apply webpage. Want to learn more about your potential supervisors?
How long will it take?
At Deakin, students are expected to complete their PhD in three years (full-time study). However, because life happens and research does not always go to plan, some people need a little longer. When you enrol, your maximum candidature date is set at four years (full-time study).
Can you complete a PhD in less time?
The minimum period of candidature for a PhD is two years. However, it is very uncommon due to the volume and quality of work required to satisfy the requirements of the degree. It takes time to become an expert in your field after all!
If you are looking to undertake a similar program in just two years, consider a Master by Research at IFM (in Engineering or Science) instead. Completing a Master can be a great way to expand your research skills before committing to a PhD. It is also possible to transfer from a Master to a PhD during your candidature.
How is the degree examined?
The length of a standard PhD thesis (or dissertation) at Deakin is around 80,000 words.
What is PhD Xtra
Deakin students benefit from an individual learning plan and additional training opportunities as part of the Researcher Development Academy program.
