"Postdoctoral Research Fellow - Ion Exchange in Hydrometallurgy"

PRIMARY DETAIL

Postdoctoral research role applying ion exchange to clean hydrometallurgy, partnering with a DeepTech startup to advance critical minerals processing.

• Salary package: Level A Step 6 (PhD Awarded Rate) $109,272 p.a., plus 17% employer’s superannuation and annual leave loading.
• Appointment Type: Full-time (35 hours per week), fixed term appointment up to 18 months
• Build your academic networks and further your career
• Faculty of Science & Engineering at Macquarie University, Wallumattagal Campus, Dharug Land, North Ryde

THE ROLE

An exciting opportunity for a postdoctoral research fellow exists in the School of Natural Sciences at Macquarie University and Loop Hydrometallurgy. This project will be undertaken alongside Loop Hydrometallurgy, a fast-growing startup operating out of the Macquarie University DeepTech Incubator. Loop is developing clean minerals processing technology to unlock Australia’s vast critical minerals resources. We are seeking a qualified postdoctoral research fellow to join a team with an international reputation for producing high quality research outcomes in the area of hydrometallurgy.

The successful candidate will undertake an 18-month research project for the application of ion exchange technology to a unique hydrometallurgical process. This could include (but not necessarily be limited to identification/development of:

• suitable ion exchange resins for the extraction of target metals from process liquors;
• suitable washing and elution protocols;
• recovery processes for the metal(s) from the IX eluates;
• multi-cycle load-wash-elution performance;
• IX resin rejuvenation;
• scale up from laboratory size for commercial application.

We very much look forward to hearing from applicants who have demonstrated excellence in their past research, have several of the technical skills required to match the demands of this project, and who are keen to engage in a project that involves collaboration with academic and industry partners.

About Us

The Faculty of Science and Engineering is a young and dynamic faculty driven by the spirit of discovery. Here we nurture the next generation of science and technology innovators. From a handful of students on the University’s first day, the Faculty now serves over 8,000 students across all our courses.

The School of Natural Sciences at Macquarie University was established on 1 January 2022 through the amalgamation of the Departments of Biological Sciences, Molecular Sciences, and Earth and Environmental Sciences. The School is the largest in the Faculty of Science and Engineering and is a vibrant community of educators, researchers and students working across a wide range of biological, biomolecular, biomedical, chemical, environmental and geoscience disciplines.

How to Apply

To be considered for this position, applicants must address the selection criteria below in a separate document and attach their CV (which includes a list of two referees), a statement of research interests and achievements.

Essential Selection Criteria

• A PhD in inorganic chemistry or a related discipline and/or relevant experience with combination of qualifications and skills;
• A track record in self-managed research;
• Previous experience in ion exchange process development;
• Previous experience with chloride hydrometallurgy;
• Demonstrated capacity to work independently and as part of a team;
• Excellent oral and written communication skills; and
• Possess an ability for analytical thinking and independent problem solving.

Note: Applicants must have valid work rights in Australia for the duration of the employment

Specific role enquiries: Dave Sammut at dave@loophydromet.com.au

For general enquiries: A/Prof. Koushik Venkatesan at koushik.venkatesan@mq.edu.au

Submission of Applications Open Until: Thursday 8 January 2026 at 11:59 p.m. (AEDT)