UNSW School of Chemical Engineering

25/06/2026

Congratulations to Dr Daisy Chu on being crowned the winner of the UNSW Founders Engineering Spinout Fellowship Showcase, as well as taking home the People's Choice Award for her startup, Aquabond. Aquabond is developing intelligent dosing technology to optimise water treatment processes, with the potential to deliver significant cost savings for the water industry.

The UNSW School of Chemical Engineering is incredibly proud of all three of our outstanding early-career researchers who participated in this year's UNSW Engineering Spinout Fellowship:

🔹 Dr Daisy Chu – Aquabond: Real time monitoring solution for effective and efficient water treatment (Mentor: Prof Greg Leslie)

🔹 Dr Yasemin Fadil – Ecofoam: Developing sustainable, scalable packaging solutions (Mentor: Prof Per Zetterlund)

🔹 Dr Xiaoxuan Luo – Gurung Fuel: Advancing the production of sustainable aviation fuel (e-SAF) to accelerate aviation decarbonisation (Mentors: A/Prof Rahman Daiyan and Prof Rose Amal)

It was truly inspiring to see the innovation, passion and entrepreneurial spirit showcased by all of this year's fellows. Transforming world-class research into real-world impact is never easy, and these researchers have demonstrated remarkable vision and determination throughout the program.

A heartfelt thank you to the dedicated mentors who generously shared their expertise and supported the fellows every step of the way, including Maddison McCoy, Linda Koschier, Prof Ian Gibson, and the many other mentors, coaches and organisers who contributed to the success of this outstanding program.

Congratulations once again to all the fellows! We look forward to seeing these exciting ventures continue to grow and create meaningful impact.

11/06/2026

Congratulations to Finley Wallace, a third-year student in the school of Chemical Engineering, who has been selected for a highly competitive national internship.

Chosen from 69 applicants across 11 Australian universities, Finley will join a team travelling to France this October to take part in hands-on microgravity research and international scientific collaboration. Through a series of Zero-G parabolic flights, he will conduct experiments in true microgravity conditions, gaining unique insights into how science is carried out in extreme environments.

The project will investigate photo thermal catalytic dry reforming methane, meaning that Finley will be contributing to research with exciting potential applications for more sustainable fuel and fertiliser production on Earth, as well as future space exploration missions!

24/05/2026

Congratulations to Prof Cyrille Boyer on being elected Fellow of the Australian Academy of Science—an outstanding and well‑deserved recognition of his leadership and impact in polymer science.

The School of Chemical Engineering at UNSW is proud to celebrate this significant achievement and contribution to Australian science.

10/05/2026

What does it really mean to build a successful research career?

For Professor Rose Amal AC, it goes far beyond publications and citation counts. During her recent Mentoring in Research session at Institut Teknologi Bandung, she shared a powerful message about the importance of mentoring, integrity, collaboration and creating research that makes a real difference to society.

Hosted by ’s Directorate of Research and Innovation, the session explored how researchers can build meaningful careers by supporting others, embracing interdisciplinary thinking and focusing on long-term impact, not just metrics. The discussion resonated strongly with attendees and has now been featured in the latest edition of 3P.

Professor Amal also reflected on how research at continues to evolve beyond the laboratory, from sustainable fuels to technologies addressing global environmental challenges, highlighting the growing connection between scientific discovery and real-world innovation.

We are proud to see Professor Amal representing the School of Chemical Engineering on the international stage and inspiring the next generation of researchers and innovators.

30/04/2026

This week we came together for our Academic Planning Day, a valuable opportunity to reflect, collaborate, and shape what’s ahead.

From curriculum innovation to student experience and research priorities, the day was filled with thoughtful discussion, fresh ideas, and a shared commitment to excellence across our School.

It was great to see such strong engagement from staff across the School, all working towards delivering impactful education and research in the years to come.

Here’s to building momentum and turning ideas into action!

28/04/2026

STEM Spotlight: Meet Mitchell Cook

From late-night study sessions to leading student initiatives, Mitchell Cook is making the most of his Chemical Engineering journey at . Now in his third year, he is combining a passion for problem-solving with a strong sense of community, both in and beyond the classroom.

What are you studying at UNSW and what inspired you to choose this degree?
I’m in my third year of a Bachelor of Chemical Engineering. My passion for solving real-world problems led me to engineering, and since I’ve always enjoyed chemistry, choosing Chemical Engineering felt like a natural fit.

What have been the most rewarding and challenging aspects of your studies so far?
There’s no mistaking it, Chemical Engineering is a challenging degree. It draws on maths, chemistry, physics, programming and more. Sometimes concepts don’t click straight away, but working through them with friends makes all the difference. That challenge is also what makes it rewarding, whether it’s celebrating a strong group project result or finally mastering a difficult concept in an exam.

What are your plans after graduation, and what industry or career area are you hoping to work in?
I’m interested in roles that involve getting into the detail of systems, particularly in modelling and optimisation. At the moment, I’m keeping an open mind and exploring different industries to help guide my decision when I graduate.

What key skills have you developed through your studies at UNSW?
Alongside technical skills like mass balances, process modelling and plant design, one of the most valuable things I’ve developed is the ability to work effectively in a team. Collaborating with different people has taught me how to communicate, compromise and take responsibility. And of course, knowing your way around Excel is always essential.

What has been the most meaningful part of the student community or social experience at UNSW?
The Chemical Engineering Undergraduate Society (CEUS) has been a huge part of my university experience. I’ve been involved since first year, currently serving as Secretary. It’s where I’ve made most of my friends, found great teammates, and built a real sense of belonging. Being able to give back and help create that same experience for others, like through our first-year camp, has been incredibly rewarding.

Why would you recommend studying Chemical Engineering at UNSW to a high school student considering engineering?
If you enjoy problem-solving and want to make a positive impact, Chemical Engineering gives you the tools to do just that. The degree opens doors to a wide range of industries, from water and energy to food and pharmaceuticals. Just as importantly, you graduate with a strong network of like-minded peers and a community that supports you throughout your journey.

27/04/2026

Researchers from the UNSW School of Chemical Engineering are contributing to an important new review in Comprehensive Reviews in Food Science and Food Safety, exploring how plant-based proteins can be better designed to meet the nutritional needs of senior adults.

Led by PhD researcher Kinza Mukhtar, the paper was recently featured in the Institute of Food Technologists newsletter, highlighting its relevance to global food innovation and ageing populations.

With the global population aged 60+ rapidly increasing, the demand for protein-rich, functional foods is more urgent than ever. This research highlights both the opportunity and complexity of using plant proteins—linking molecular structure and processing techniques to real-world outcomes like digestibility, texture, and nutrient availability.

Importantly, the review examines how targeted modification strategies—physical, chemical, and enzymatic—can improve plant proteins for ageing populations, while also navigating key trade-offs (such as balancing solubility, gelation, and bioactivity). It also connects food design to critical health challenges like dysphagia, sarcopenia, and protein malnutrition.

The result is an integrated framework for developing sustainable, plant-based foods that support health, functionality, and quality of life in senior adults.

We are especially proud to recognise the contributions of our School authors:

Cordelia Selomulya and Yong Wang

Kinza also has a second research paper published this week, further showcasing the strength of emerging research in this space.

This work highlights how chemical engineering is driving innovation at the intersection of food, health, and sustainability.

Read the featured article: https://ift.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/1541-4337.70461

Explore Kinza’s latest publication: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0963996926009087

The aging population presents an increasing need for protein-rich food that supports health, functionality, and quality of life in senior adults. Plant proteins, with their sustainability and nutriti...

19/04/2026

Access to safe drinking water is something many of us take for granted, but for some remote and Indigenous communities across Australia, it remains a real and ongoing challenge.

As part of this year’s Young Women in Engineering ( ) Pathways Program, the UNSW School of Chemical Engineering invited students to take on a meaningful, real-world problem: Safe Water for All, engineering solutions for drinking water in remote Australia.

Guided by Dr Helen Rutlidge, students explored how chemical engineering can help address water quality issues caused by contaminants such as nitrate, fluoride and iron, all while considering sustainability and culturally appropriate solutions. The challenge encouraged teams to think beyond the technical, and to reflect on the broader social impact of engineering.

At the program’s closing event, one of our Chemical Engineering teams was awarded third place in the pitch competition, a fantastic achievement and a testament to their thoughtful and creative approach.

Congratulations to the team, and thank you to everyone who supported the program. It’s inspiring to see the next generation of engineers engaging with challenges that truly matter.

13/04/2026

Meet Mayank Verma, a student from the School of Chemical Engineering, sharing his journey through the challenges, growth, and opportunities that come with the degree.

Q: What are you studying and what drew you to it?
I am studying Chemical Engineering at UNSW. What drew me to the degree was how naturally it combines problem-solving, science, and real-world impact. I have always been interested in both the technical and practical side of things, and Chemical Engineering stood out because it connects science with industries that shape everyday life. I also liked that it offered a balance of analytical thinking and broader opportunities in areas like business, leadership, and innovation.

Q: What has been most rewarding and most challenging?
One of the most rewarding parts has been seeing how much I have grown since first year. Concepts that once felt overwhelming gradually started to make sense, and it has been really satisfying to build my skills and confidence over time. I have also really valued the connections I have made with peers and academics.
One of the most challenging aspects has been learning how to work effectively in diverse teams. Group projects bring together different personalities and perspectives, which can be difficult to navigate, but it has taught me a lot about communication, adaptability, and working constructively with others.

Q: What are your plans after graduation?
After graduation, I hope to work in the chemical engineering industry and gain hands-on experience. I am especially interested in consulting, management, and the food and beverage space. I am excited by the opportunity to work on real-world problems and continue learning in a professional environment.

Q: What skills have you developed?
Through my studies, I have developed strong communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and adaptability skills. Engineering projects often involve technical challenges, tight deadlines, and collaboration with people from different backgrounds, so I have learnt how to communicate clearly, stay flexible, and work well under pressure.

Q: What does the student community mean to you?
The most meaningful part has been the sense of support and belonging. There is something special about going through a challenging degree alongside people who understand exactly what you are experiencing. Student societies have played a big role in creating a welcoming environment where friendships and support networks can grow.

Q: Why would you recommend Chemical Engineering at UNSW?
It is a degree that challenges you, but also helps you grow in so many ways. You learn how to think critically, solve complex problems, and develop skills that can be applied across many industries. What makes UNSW especially valuable is the strong student community, supportive environment, and opportunities to gain industry exposure.

08/04/2026

We are proud to spotlight Master of Engineering Science in Chemical Engineering student Vaibhav Lavani.

Driven by a curiosity for how things work and the intricate processes behind how everyday products are made, Vaibhav is building strong foundations across research, leadership and community impact.

What are you studying and what inspired you to choose this degree?
“I am currently completing a Master of Engineering Science in Chemical Engineering. I have always been fascinated by how things work and the processes behind how everyday products are made. I chose this degree to act as a ‘process engineer,’ solving complex problems and ensuring systems achieve the best possible efficiency and yield.”

What have been the most rewarding and challenging aspects of your studies so far?
“The most rewarding part is seeing theory come to life through real-world projects, like my thesis on aerosol dispersion or my research work on sustainable coatings. The challenge is definitely the balancing act of managing research and studies alongside leadership roles. It is a lot to handle, but I’ve found that staying busy and learning to manage different responsibilities is just a huge part of growing as an engineer.”

What are your plans after graduation, and what industry or career area are you hoping to work in?
“After graduation, I plan to work as a Graduate Process or Chemical Engineer in water management or sustainable industries, helping industries transition toward a circular economy where waste becomes a valuable source of energy and nutrients.”

What key skills have you developed through your studies at UNSW?
“I have gained a strong mix of technical and leadership skills, including advanced engineering design and simulation tools, hands-on lab work in nanomaterial synthesis and water treatment, as well as project management, strategic planning and communicating complex ideas.”

What has been the most meaningful part of the student community or social experience at UNSW?
“Serving as President of CERS UNSW and volunteering with showed me that uni is all about the people. Getting involved turns a busy campus into a real community. It’s rewarding to help create a space where everyone feels welcome, making the student experience so much more than just sitting in a lecture hall.”

Why would you recommend studying Chemical Engineering at UNSW to a high school student considering engineering?
“Chemical Engineering is one of the most versatile degrees, from food and polymers to battery technology and sustainable energy. At UNSW, you are not just learning theory, you are developing the skills to solve real global challenges.”