Facebook icon Forward icon

The University of Newcastle - Upper Hunter

Delivering Innovation, Research and Programs to Benefit Regions

Learning by Doing at its Best Through Doctoral Training Centres

One of many significant initiatives facilitated by the University of Newcastle’s Newcastle institute for Energy and Resources (NIER) in conjunction with the Office of Graduate Research, Doctoral Training Centres (DTCs) bring students, academics, and industry together to create new knowledge and drive industry focussed solutions across a variety of globally important sectors, with an emphasis on industry-embedded experience and transferable skills training.

DTC collaborators work together to solve global challenges by developing new technologies, teaching and learning initiatives, policy concepts, cultural ideas, and commercial innovations. PhD candidates within the DTC undertake research in direct collaboration with industry partners, and are supported by multidisciplinary, solutions-focused academic teams to enhance knowledge, outcomes, and skillsets.

DTC candidates Elif Ergun (pic: left) and Lauren Bradney (pic: right), have had the opportunity to work from the University’s Upper Hunter facility in Muswellbrook, whilst conducting research at local mine sites for the “Tailings to Topsoil”, research program in partnership with Muswellbrook Shire Council, Bengalla Mining Company, Jord International, MACH Energy and Australian Coal Association Research Program.

The Tailings to Topsoil project is providing an alternative solution to tailings disposal in mining operations by transforming suitable tailings into a soil additive. It is envisaged that the tailings-soil mixtures will be used for developing high-performance biomass feedstocks and will also improve mine rehabilitation and agricultural production. The flow-on benefits of the project include the creation of additional pathways for agribusiness on mined land, improving fertility through carbon availability, and improved water retention on marginal lands. In the future, it is envisaged the Tailings to Topsoil program could be a platform for creating employment opportunities and regional economic growth.

Through the project, Elif has explored ways to achieve a successful, cost-effective technology to identify in real-time the valuable characteristics of coal mine tailings for farmable topsoil addition, while Lauren has focused on evaluating these tailings in their ability to support germination, plant growth and further improving the qualities of tailings as a soil additive through modification.

As DTC candidates, Elif and Lauren are provided with additional professional training opportunities, site visits led by industry experts, and industry engagement events designed to develop flexible and transferable work-ready skills that will help boost employability and add to their overall student experience.

Click here for more information on the Doctoral Training Centres...

Voice of Real Australia: Community Energy

In 2020, we shared with you a story of Ethan Hamilton, who was at that time in his final year studying a Bachelor of Communication majoring in News and Digital Media at the University of Newcastle, his finished industry portfolio on the podcast, and published feature article on Renewable Energy in Newcastle and the Hunter.

A few months ago, Ethan contacted us to share terrific news that he has taken on postgraduate study with the University in order to pursue his ideal career via a Bachelor of Communication (Honours). Through the University, he has also undertaken an internship with the Voice of Real Australia, a podcast by Australian Community Media (ACM) based out of the Newcastle Herald.

As a result, he has had a podcast episode and accompanying feature published by several ACM newspapers. The stories are centred on Community Energy projects and feature projects in Gloucester and Canberra. In this newsletter, we are delighted to share with you Ethan’s podcast and the published feature article:

Congratulations on your achievements, Ethan!

Study here. Make an impact. Every path welcome. Every student celebrated. Click here to browse degrees by study areamore...

NIER Annual Report 2020-2021

As the Newcastle Institute for Energy and Resources (NIER) passes the milestone of ten years of operations, they are proud to present the 2020-2021 Annual Report.

In collaboration with 19 hosted research centres and groups and 173 active industry partners, NIER is supporting the sustainable use of the world's resources and strengthening regional resilience through world-class research, industry collaboration, research education and innovative solutions.

With their partners and within their local and global regions, they are committed to advancing their contributions to sectors underpinning social, environmental and economic prosperity - energy, resources, food and water - and to helping meet the vital resource needs of future generations.

Click here to see some of NIER's achievements from the past financial year...

NewH2 Launches Website

It is exciting to share with you the news that NewH2 has just launched a fresh website, containing news, events and resources for stakeholders in the emerging hydrogen industry.

The Cluster forms part of H2TCA: Hydrogen Technology Cluster Australia - a nationwide network to foster a multi-billion dollar, globally competitive hydrogen technology industry for Australia.

Hosted at the Newcastle Institute for Energy and Resources (NIER), NewH2 is supporting the emerging hydrogen economy in NSW by facilitating connections and knowledge sharing throughout the state and beyond. They are currently working hard to reshape and reschedule planned events to an online format focused on fostering skills, capability and commercialisation opportunities put on hold due to COVID.

Visit the new website here...

Discounted Graduate Certificate Short Courses

We are currently offering government subsidised places on many of our high-quality graduate certificates. You're eligible for a discount of up to 80% on course fees and you may also qualify for HECS-HELP meaning there will be no upfront course fees.

Our graduate certificates are designed to allow you to further advance your current career or embark on a new one. Upon completion, the graduate certificate can be used as a pathway and provide up to 40 credits into relevant Master’s degrees.

Looking to upskill or reskill? Now is the time! Click here to check out eligible degrees and find out more...

2022 QS World Rankings

In a challenging year, the University of Newcastle has maintained its position among the world’s Top 200 universities in the prestigious 2022 QS World University Rankings, released in June 2021. 

The University of Newcastle rank of 197 is unchanged from last year, demonstrating impressive stability in a volatile year. The QS World University Ranking follows recent success in the THE Impact Rankings, which saw the University of Newcastle ranked number one in the world for partnering for a more sustainable future.

Click here to explore our wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate and research degrees, as well as our enabling programs and diplomas, and enjoy the exciting career opportunities ahead...

Celebrating Rich Diversity That Makes up our University Community

This week, from 23-27 August, we are celebrating the University of Newcastle Pride Week and the rich diversity that makes up our University community! 

Pride means something different to every one of us. Click here to hear from our colleagues on what this means to them... :)

If you're planning on studying in 2022, then don't miss our Open Days Online.

Open Days are an exciting way to start your journey to study at the University of Newcastle. It’s a great chance for prospective students, their friends and families to check out the university, speak with current students and academics, and find out all they need to know about uni life.

So many of our students have shared just how important Open Days were in helping inform their direction.

Click here to find out more about 2021 Open Days Online...

Join the Dots - Cleantech

  • Date: 25 August 2021
  • Time: 5PM - 7PM

For August's Join the Dots, we will be diving into the cleantech sector. Hear from founders and business leaders as they share how they're harnessing technology to dramatically reduce environmental impact. These short presentations are followed by networking to help attendees join the dots for potential collaboration.

Please note that we are aiming for a hybrid in-person and online event, but will pivot to all online if required.

Event is free to attend but registration is essential. Click here to find out more...

Startup Stories - Jacqueline Garrett (GGWP Academy)

  • Date: 1 September 2021
  • Time: 8AM - 9AM

GGWP Academy helps gamers enhance monetisation and engagement in content creation through its iOS and Android apps. The platform teaches players an array of lessons ranging from branding to social media management, to build an audience and make money.

Join us for Startup Stories and hear from this local superstar as she shares her rapid journey founding GGWP Academy and what’s next on their exciting trajectory.

Event is free to attend but registration is essential. Click here to find out more...

STEM Stories: Navigating diverse career pathways

Date: 1 September 2021  l  Time: 8AM - 9AM  l  Delivery mode: Online via Zoom

The road to career success is sometimes thought to be linear and obvious, but when opportunities arise, circumstances change, or personal priorities shift: how do you decide the right path to follow? 

In the next HunterWiSE Network Event, STEM Stories: Navigating diverse career pathways, hosts Dr Jessica Allen and Dr Elena Levchenko from the University of Newcastle will explore this question with a panel of women who have pursued their STEM careers down very different pathways. Panellists Dr Riya Aggarwal, Dr Madeleine Dupont, Dr Lizzy Lowe and Dr Kim Van Netten will share their diverse experiences and the decisions they made along the way.

Register now...

Energy Innovation X-Change 2021 Conferences

  • Date: 15-16 September 2021
  • Delivery mode: Online                             
  • Tickets: Registration for this unmissable event is FREE

The conference focus on energy productivity innovations to help you on your path to net zero emissions. There will be two simultaneous streams of presentations: one looking at innovations being implemented right now and how to make the case for them in your organisation.

The other stream will be presented by RACE for 2030 and will look at the innovations needed in coming years to deliver on net zero targets and the RACE programs focussing on the research and development to deliver these innovations.

Click here for more information...

Urban Thinkers Campus 2021

The webinar series with the objectives outlined from the event will be collated for global dissemination through the World Urban Campaign mechanisms. Separate statements of the findings will be prepared for a media release to key local, state and federal authorities.

Click here to view a full program...

New Futures Hackathon for Water Security

Date: 15-16 October 2021

New Futures Hackathon for Water Security will bring together multidisciplinary minds to explore the barriers around water use, pollution and disaster and generate solutions to build a sustainable world. Meet new people, be exposed to fresh ideas, learn new skills and build creative, original work.

Click here to find out more...

The 'Lucky Country'

Join esteemed social psychologist Hugh Mackay AO, Professor Catharine Coleborne and their panel of emerging and established experts in thoughtful debate, questions and analysis of what a kind, loving and advancing community looks like in our country, and the barriers we face as a society.

This event occurred on Tuesday 1 June 2021

Watch the lecture here...

In Conversation with Dr Alan Finkel AO

Join Dr Alan Finkel AO and Dr Jessica Allen as they discuss the vast opportunities available through low emissions technology, provide insights into government and technology directions, and explore how regional industries might respond.

This event occurred on Wednesday 26 May 2021

Watch the lecture here...

Building Resilience

Join Shane Fitzsimmons, Commissioner of Resilience NSW, and Lord Mayor Cr Nuatali Nelmes and their panel of experts as they discuss sustainable development issues, design and policy directions both within our direct communities and in our neighbouring regions - locally and globally.

This event occurred on Wednesday 21 April 2021

Watch the lecture here...

Alumni Insight Series

Drawing on the impressive expertise within the University of Newcastle global alumni community, the series provides you with inspirational, educational and relevant content to spark both your professional and personal interest.

We are bringing our experts to you - Click here to find out more...