The University of Queensland

Research centre to tackle global pollution with ‘green' plastic

A new University of Queensland-led training centre is set to become a hub for world-leading research in ‘green' plastic.

The AUD 13 million Australian Research Council (ARC) Industrial Transformation Training Centre for Bioplastics and Biocomposites, based at UQ's School of Chemical Engineering, aims to make large-scale plastic pollution a problem of the past.

Scientists at the training centre will be working to develop new and innovative bio-derived and bio-degradable plastics, whose widespread use could lessen the environmental impact of the global plastics industry. Environmental plastic pollution is a major issue which has become more universally recognised in recent years. More than ten million tonnes of plastic end up in the ocean each year, and this is starting to have a measurably detrimental effect on the marine ecosystem.

Biodegradable plastics with composite natural fibre structures look to be crucial in mitigating this effect in years to come, while meeting the demands of the packaging and product industries on which society depends.

''Urgent change is needed'' says Centre director, Associate Professor Steven Pratt, who will be guiding research activities at the new centre.

''It's an exciting prospect to work toward manufacturing a commercially available plastic with exceptional properties but without the legacy of accumulation in the environment.''

The university's teachers are the most highly awarded in Australia. This is a testament to the innovative and professional teaching approach taken by the institution. UQ supports and celebrates innovative teaching and learning practices that engage and inspire its students. Many of UQ's highly qualified academic staff are recognised internationally as leaders in their fields, and have extensive experience as academic practitioners, industry professionals, and education specialists. Their experience makes them expert communicators who are able to effectively tutor students from all backgrounds and walks of life.

Due to this successful approach to teaching, students completing their studies at UQ will feel confident that they'll graduate with a skillset to succeed in a modern, competitive graduate market.

The university is home to six faculties, and eight internationally recognised multidisciplinary research institutes along with other research and educational sites across Queensland. These include marine research stations at Heron and North Stradbroke (Minjerribah) Islands, a mineral research centre, seismograph station, veterinary and agricultural science teaching and research centres at Gatton, UQ Business School, social science research at Long Pocket, teaching hospitals, health centres and other medical research facilities. UQ's research, delivered by an interdisciplinary research community of more than 2,500 scientists, social scientists and engineers, has a global impact.

Faculties:

• Humanities and Social Sciences
• Engineering, Architecture and Information Technology
• Medicine
• Business, Economics and Law
• Science
• Health and Behavioural Sciences

Research institutes:

• Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology (AIBN)
• Global Change Institute (GCI)
• Institute for Molecular Bioscience (IMB)
• Institute for Social Science Research (ISSR)
• Mater Research Institute – UQ (MRI-UQ)
• Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation (QAAFI)
• Queensland Brain Institute (QBI)
• Sustainable Minerals Institute (SMI)

UQ has step-by-step instructions on how to complete applications on its website. Students can choose their program, find out about entry requirements and academic and English language pathways, fees, and more.

Applicants to UQ can submit their application to the university directly or via an approved UQ agent, according to their preferences. Applicants can contact UQ admissions staff at any point during the application process, by phone or email.

Many international students often work with an approved UQ agent, who can help them with their decisions, provide advice, and assist with completing and submitting their application to The University of Queensland.

Here are a few reasons to apply to UQ, as given by an international student:

Urvi Mistry, India

UQ International Student Ambassador

Master of Pharmaceutical Industry Practice

''I enjoy everything about studying at UQ. Friendly teachers, faculty support, opportunities for self-development and life experiences make for the perfect blend of everything needed for personal growth and development. UQ also has a strong international culture. I've made friends from diverse backgrounds which has added to my experience. UQ is among the most highly esteemed universities in Australia and has a very ambitious research and learning environment.''

A more detailed breakdown of cost of living estimates for students at The University of Queensland can be found on UQ's website.

The University of Queensland offers competitive scholarships to help high achieving students fund their tertiary education. Students can visit the UQ Scholarships webpage for the latest scholarships available.

Students can access and apply for field-of-study scholarships at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels through UQ faculties, private sector organisations, industry partners or schools. Some of the available scholarships are designed for honours students, and grants may also be available to assist students with the cost of travelling to international conferences.

The university also offers a range of Higher Degree by Research (HDR) scholarships, providing up to AUD 40 million in funding support each year for the living and tuition expenses of HDR students.

The University of Queensland offers students a leading campus experience globally, with urban and regional locations across the sunshine state. UQ's campuses are thoughtfully designed with impressive architecture, excellent campus safety and a relaxing atmosphere. The university is home to advanced academic facilities which students can use to excel in their studies.

UQ students have access to world-class facilities, unique resources and exceptional learning environments. The university has:

• One of the fastest and most advanced information networks in the world
• Modern teaching spaces that enable the use of the latest technology
• Eight internationally recognised research institutes
• One of the best research libraries in Australia
• World-class sporting facilities including an Olympic-size pool, athletics track, a fitness centre, multiple fields and courts, and a tennis centre.

St Lucia campus, UQ's main campus, is a vibrant mix of historical sandstone buildings, modern architecture, lush parklands and lakes. It is a city within a city with all the facilities students need to study and live, including food and retail outlets, libraries, entertainment, fitness facilities and healthcare.

UQ Gatton, the university's rural campus, combines the rural traditions of its Queensland Agricultural College heritage with innovative research and teaching facilities in agriculture, animal science, veterinary science and the environment.

UQ's Herston campus, is in the heart of Brisbane's health district. It is home to the Medicine and Public Health schools, the UQ Centre for Clinical Research, Oral Health Centre and the research activities of the School of Nursing and Midwifery. Supported by a broad network of health partners, UQ Herston shares premises with several medical centres, services and institutes, allowing students and visitors to interact with leading health researchers, academics and professionals.