Computational Modelling for Plasma Research Translation

Summary

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Project will focus on developing computational models to understand, predict, and optimise plasma surface treatment processes for scale-up from laboratory systems to pilot and industrial platforms.

Research Areas:

Fluid Dynamics, Computational Modelling, Plasma

Supervisor

Professor Marcela Bilek.

Research location

Biomedical Engineering

Synopsis

Our research has identified a number of novel surface treatments and demonstrated that they can provide significant value across a range of biomedical and industrial applications. Current research is focussed on developing scaled up plasma systems to translate these research achievements into real-world products and services for positive impact. Applications include next generation cell culture platforms, medical diagnostic kits, and medical implants. These plasma treatments can be conducted with either low, or atmospheric pressure plasma systems, and can create plasma polymerised nanoparticles (PPN) of great interest for pharmaceutical applications. Candidates will conduct research in collaboration with industry partners, such as Culturon (https://www.culturon.com.au/), translation organisations, such as the SMART CRC (https://smartcrc.com.au/), and complementary research organisations.

The successful candidate will develop computational models to provide deeper understanding of the plasma behaviour and make robust predictions for scale up experiments to guide hardware modifications. Considerations include gas flow dynamics, electric fields, gas composition, parasitic discharges, optimisation of system geometries, plasma density analysis, deposition rates, tuning the chemical composition of coatings, complex surface geometries, treatment consistency etc. Computational modelling when validated by comparison with experimental studies provides a highly efficient way of exploring and optimising designs and operational parameters.

The successful candidate will help bring cutting edge technology to patients, customers, and businesses for global benefit.

Offering:

The successful candidate will be awarded a scholarship for 3.5 years at the RTP stipend rate (currently $41,753 in 2025) subject to satisfactory academic performance. International applicants will receive a tuition fee scholarship for up to 3.5 years.

Successful candidates must have:

• Must have a Honours degree (First Class or First Class Honours Equivalent) or a Master's degree with a substantial research component
• Demonstrated computational modelling & simulation experience with fluid dynamics and/or electric/magnetic fields. Direct experience modelling plasma is an advantage.
• Proficiency with modelling software and techniques, such as COMSOL, and finite element modelling.
• Experience with validating models with experimental data.
• Sufficient proficiency in physics, engineering, and surface science to understand and design appropriate simulations and models.
• Proficiency in scientific writing and oral communication.
• The capacity to work proactively and professionally within a team.
• Preferably some experience with complex computational modelling / plasma systems / 3D printing / surface science.
• Preferably experience working with industry partners
• Preferably experience working on multidisciplinary/interdisciplinary projects, ideally biomedical, or clinical. 

How to Apply:

To apply, please email marcela.bilek@sydney.edu.au the following:

• CV
• Transcripts

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Opportunity ID

The opportunity ID for this research opportunity is 3684

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