PhD: Sustainable Aviation Fuel from Marine Waste: Exploring an Innovative

Are you ready to turn marine waste into sustainable aviation fuel and help decarbonise global transport?Marine Bioproducts CRC, Adelaide University, and Fisheries Research and Development Corporation are offering an exciting PhD opportunity on transforming marine by-products into sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), supporting Australia’s transition to a circular, low-carbon economy.PhD title: Sustainable Aviation Fuel from Marine Waste: Exploring an Innovative Path to Circular SolutionsResearch degree: PhDScholarship: AU$60,000 per annumDuration: 3.5 yearsThis project explores how under-utilised marine animal by-products can be converted into sustainable aviation fuel using Hydroprocessed Esters and Fatty Acids (HEFA) technology. These by-products represent a significant and largely untapped resource for producing high-value sustainable fuels.The successful candidate will have a strong academic background in transportation, environmental science, energy systems, or a related discipline, with demonstrated expertise in economic modelling and simulation techniques. A strong interest in sustainable aviation fuel, the circular economy, or low-carbon energy systems is essential. Evidence of high-quality research performance will be highly regarded.Through this PhD, you will:- Identify and map marine by-product streams with potential for conversion into sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).- Evaluate the suitability of HEFA-based processing pathways Assess technical, economic, and sustainability considerations for scaling SAF production from marine resources.- Contribute to the development of circular solutions that transform waste into high-value energy products.- Engage with industry and research partners to support real-world application and impactIf you are motivated by innovation, sustainability, and real-world impact, and are interested in applied, industry-focused research, we encourage you to apply.Applications: Open to domestic and international candidatesLocation: Mawson Lakes Campus, with some travel to City East Campus, AdelaideApplications close: 22nd May 2026Interviews held for shortlisted applicants: May/June 2026Start date: July/ August 2026To apply, submit:1. A cover letter outlining relevant experience, skills, and motivation2. A CV including academic and professional credentials, GPA (or equivalent), and evidence of English language proficiency (if applicable)3. Contact details for at least two referees, plus any additional supporting documentsApplicants must meet the academic and enrolment requirements of Adelaide University.Applications should be sent to Prof Yahua (Shane) Zhang (School of Electrical and Mechanical Engineering) at shane.zhang@adelaide.edu.au.For further information, contact Dr Sarah Ugalde, Education and Communications Manager, Marine Bioproducts CRC, at sarah@mbcrc.com.Join us in shaping the future of sustainable fuels and circular marine industries!Job Type: Full-timePay: $60,000.00 per yearWork Location: In person