The aim of the Master of Philosophy (MPhil) program is to provide research training in a manner that fosters the development of independent research skills in candidates. On completion of the period of research, the student should possess the ability to formulate a significant problem, mastery of appropriate conceptual and methodological frameworks, and the capacity for articulate and critical analysis. Bioengineering The human genome project inspired the development of high throughput, low-cost omics technologies. We can now sequence a microbe in a morning and do a comprehensive molecular inventory (expressed genes, proteins, metabolites) in a week. Bioengineering exploits recent advances in the fields of biology, mathematics and physics to develop new treatments, therapies and devices for medical and environmental applications. Tissue Engineering and Synthetic Biology is the focus of research in this area at UQ Chemical engineering. Energy The common objective of energy research at UQ Chemical Engineering is to harness fundamental technological and scientific research to facilitate the transition towards a sustainable energy economy. Our aims are to improve fuel handling, fuel conversion and combustion methods, to increase energy conversion efficiency and minimise pollution and safety hazards in processes involving power generation and energy supply. Research at UQ Chemical Engineering focuses on hydrogen, solar, clean coal, biofuel, unconventional gas and energy storage. Materials Materials Engineering has an important role in current and emerging technologies, contributing to all areas of engineering through materials expertise including developing new materials, optimising existing and controlling disposal of materials. Key areas in material science at UQ Chemical Engineering include clean energy, health care, environmental and food science. Chemical Engineering Science Chemical Engineering Science focuses on the fundamental principles behind chemical engineering. This includes the development of chemical engineering knowledge and process through the application of other disciplines including biology, chemistry, physics, and applied mathematics. At UQ Chemical Engineering, research focuses on adsorption, surface science, thermodynamics, catalysts, separation, molecular simulation, process control and optimisation. Environmental Research conducted by the environmental engineering group is geared toward understanding the fundamental physical, chemical and biological principles of engineered and natural systems. At UQ Chemical Engineering, the research has a strong emphasis on practical applications as demonstrated by bench-scale experimentation, pilot- and field-scale demonstration projects, and computer modelling and simulations. Metallurgy and Minerals Processing Metallurgy and minerals processing is devoted to scientific, engineering, and economic aspects of the preparation, separation, extraction, and purification of ores, metals, and mineral products by both physical and chemical methods.