An exciting opportunity is now available for a PhD candidate to undertake a 
research project on a future, low-emission ironmaking technology – the Electric 
Smelting Furnace (ESF). Based at the University of Wollongong (UOW) in the 
School of Mechanical, Materials, Mechatronic and Biomedical Engineering.

The specific research aim is to develop and validate computational fluid dynamic 
models to simulate and better understand operating conditions in the ESF. The 
research is part of the ESF program which includes complex physical experiments 
and numerical studies. The PhD candidate will work within a team of UOW 
investigators and their industrial partner investigators, and be trained to 
undertake high-quality, cutting-edge numerical modelling of multi-phase and 
multi-physics phenomena in the ESF.  

There will be ample opportunity for the PhD candidate to work in both industrial 
and academic environments, and hence, develop industry-related project 
management skills. The professional training and personal development through 
this project and the university’s overall mentoring scheme, will help prepare 
the candidate for a career in academia or industry.

Selection criteria
Essential
• Academic qualification. Applicants should hold an honours (or equivalent) 
undergraduate degree, or a Masters degree, in a closely related discipline, or 
the equivalent combination of professional experience and academic 
qualifications
• High level written and verbal communication skills in English, presenting 
research work and outcomes to both the industrial and academic communities
Highly Desirable
• Knowledge in either CFD, metallurgical process, or numerical process 
simulation
• Experience in one or more areas: numerical analysis, fluid dynamics, 
computational methods, materials engineering, or thermo-physics.
• Good computer skill, and ability to work collaboratively as part of a multi-
disciplinary team
• (Desirable but not essential) Familiarity with CFD software or CFD programming

Scholarship amount: Successful candidates will receive a tax-free stipend of 
up to $AUD 45,000 per annum for the duration of the award.

Duration: 3.5 years.

Application process
• Applicants should submit a cover letter detailing relevant experience and 
research interest; CV with names and addresses of two referees; and academic 
transcripts.
• We seek applicants from diverse backgrounds, reflecting all facets of prior 
experience or history.
• The EOI should be sent via email to xuefeng@uow.edu.au AND rayl@uow.edu.au.

Application closing date: The position will close once the appropriate candidate 
has been recruited.