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ProfessorStuart Thickett

ARC Future Fellowship

Chemistry

Orcid identifier0000-0002-8168-3856 (opens in a new tab)⁠
  • ARC Future Fellowship
    Chemistry
  • +61 3 6226 2783 (Work)
  • School of Natural Sciences, Chemistry, 304 Chemistry Building, Sandy Bay Campus, TAS

RESEARCH SUMMARy

Research Themes


Stuart is a polymer and materials chemist whose research aligns to the University’s research theme of Resources and Sustainability. His interests are centred on polymer and materials chemistry, with a specific focus on the control of structure-property relationships of polymers through understanding the underlying kinetics and mechanism of polymer synthesis. 

 

His group has pioneered the development of bio-derived polymers from wood waste sourced locally from Tasmanian timber, to develop sustainable alternatives to polymers prepared from non-renewable feedstocks such as petroleum and crude oil. These bio-derived polymers are able to be degraded under mild alkaline conditions, potentially contributing to polymer recycling pathways. The thermal and mechanical properties of these polymers can be readily tuned based on simple, scalable chemical modification. This work was subject to an Australian provisional patent (2023) and PCT (2024), with work ongoing for applications in heterogeneous polymerization.

 

Stuart was awarded a future fellowship from the Australian Research Council in 2022 for the development of low-waste polymer synthesis technologies. He is developing polymerization methods through the use of "deep eutectic solvents" that remove the need for traditional organic, hazardous solvents. This methodology has shown to be transferrable to applications in 3d printing, soft actuators, self-assembly, and stimuli-responsive materials.

 

Stuart also works on the design of polymer nanoparticles that have applications in protective surface coatings, electrically conductive materials, and controlled uptake and release. Stuart also works in the area of photopolymerization, where light can be used to prepare bespoke polymer materials via techniques such as 3D printing. He collaborates with analytical chemists and material scientists to enable polymeric objects to be printed with high level of control and precision. He has a strong background of research collaboration with industrial partners in diverse areas (latex paints, functional surfaces, 3D printing).

 

Areas of Expertise
Polymer synthesis and characterization
Heterogeneous polymerization
Synthesis and applications of nanoparticles and self-assembly
Controlled radical polymerization
Photopolymerization and 3D Printing
Polymer thin films and surfaces



Collaboration Network
Stuart has active research collaborations here at the University of Tasmania, as well as other Universities across Australia and internationally. Here at The University of Tasmania he works with other researchers in the areas of photoredox catalysis (Prof Alex Bissember) and 3D printing (Prof Michael Breadmore and Dr Fernando Alejandro) in order to develop new methods to control the synthesis of polymeric materials. Stuart also works closely with Prof Jason Smith on the design of monomers from bio-derived compounds and subsequent polymerization.

 

Stuart continues to collaborate extensively with academics nationally and internationally for the design of polymer nanoparticle dispersions for waterborne coatings, conductive materials for novel energy storage technologies, vat photopolymerization, and functional materials from 3D printing.

Awards

 

2025 RACI Polymer Division Citation for services to polymer science in Australia

2024 College of Sciences and Engineering Trailblazing Discovery Research Award

2023 Pioneering Investigator in Polymer Chemistry, Royal Society of Chemistry (UK)

2019 Pioneering Investigator in Polymer Chemistry, Royal Society of Chemistry (UK)

Current projects


Colloidal nanocomposite synthesis via polymerization induced self-assembly
Novel polymer synthesis based on bio-derived monomers
Tailored resin chemistry for applications in stereolithographic 3D printing
Porous polymer monoliths for application in separation science
Graphene-polymer composite materials
Crosslinked polymeric gels using environmentally benign solvents
Controlled photopolymerization using transition metal photocatalysis

For further information, head to http://www.softmatterchem.info

Research Supervision


Stuart is an experienced research supervisor, and has successfully supervised / co-supervised over 30 PhD, Masters and Honours students and  to completion at The University of Tasmania, University of Sydney, UNSW Sydney and The University of South Australia (correct as of 04/2026). Stuart has also supervised mutiple undergraduate research projects including Deans' Summer Research students here at UTAS. Stuart welcomes potential applicants for postgraduate study under his supervision; a strong background in polymer and physical chemistry is recommended.

FUNDED PROJECTS

  • CONSULTANCY/CONTRACT RESEARCH
    ARC College of Experts 2026
    1 Oct 2025 - 31 Dec 2028
    People funded by this grant:
    • Thickett S
    Project Total: $0; I would like to nominate to join the ARC College of Experts for 2026. As a national leader in polymer and materials chemistry, my research track record and expertise in leading research grants in the priority area 'Macromolecular and Materials Chemistry' makes me well suited as a representative from the University of Tasmania to join the college. Funded by: Australian Research Council ($15,000); University of Tasmania.
  • GRANT
    Bio-derived polymer synthesis
    28 Feb 2025 - 27 Feb 2029
    People funded by this grant:
    • Sheers H,
    • Thickett S,
    • Smith J,
    • Stanfield M
    Project Total: $119,952; Synthetic polymers, commonly referred to as plastics, are ubiquitous in modern society. Featuring many desirable properties such as being highly durable, versatile and affordable, synthetic polymers have rapidly disseminated across the world becoming indispensable. However, over 90% of plastics are derived from fossil fuels. Considering the detrimental effects caused by non-renewable feedstocks to the environment and to human health as well as instability regarding the long-term supply of petrochemicals, the need for the plastic industry to decouple its dependence on finite fossil-based feedstocks is critical. Aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals by working towards increasing balance in resource exploration and decreasing dependencies on non-renewable resources, the synthesis of polymers from biomass presents an opportunity to facilitate this transition. Boasting large biomass reserves attributable to the nations large timber and agricultural sectors, Australia is well-positioned to be a world leader in the development of bio-derived polymers. My project aims to utilise natural platform molecules extracted from Tasmanian waste timber to be used as precursors for the synthesis of bio-derived polymers. These new bio-derived materials will be strategically designed for high-value applications. Having the physical, thermal and mechanical properties to compete with state-of-the-art fossil fuel derived products. The research I will undertake is anticipated to attract commercial and industrial interest from Australian manufacturers due to focusing on the synthesis of bio-based acrylates, a key component in paints, adhesives and surface coatings. I will also endeavour to investigate the end-of-life use of these materials to ensure they dont contribute to increased microplastic pollution in Australia. Funded by: Westpac Banking Corporation - Grant-Scholarship ($119,952); University of Tasmania.
  • CONSULTANCY/CONTRACT RESEARCH
    Bio-based monomers for next-generation surface coatings
    Dulux1 Jan 2024 - 31 Dec 2024
    People funded by this grant:
    • Thickett S,
    • Stanfield M,
    • Smith J
    Project Total: $0; There is growing regulatory requirements in the paints, adhesives and surface coating sectors to move away from petroleum-derived feedstocks for polymer synthesis and replace them with sustainable, bio-based alternatives. In this project we will investigate the synthesis of bio-derived acrylic monomers, as well as their polymerization and characterisation, in-line with performance requirements from the industry partner. Funded by: Dulux; University of Tasmania.
  • GRANT
    Faster, greener, stronger: a new approach to synthesis of polymer materials
    Australian Research Council1 Jun 2023 - 30 May 2028
    People funded by this grant:
    • Thickett S
    Project Total: $942,570; The project will investigate new approaches towards polymer material synthesis in the complete absence of hazardous solvents, with the aim of creating materials that have superior physical or chemical properties compared to those prepared using existing methods. This project is significant for driving advances in material design and characterization using simple starting materials and environmentally sustainable conditions. Expected outcomes include the production of unique nanomaterials, hydrogels and polymer monoliths with targeted applications, in addition to advances in 3D printing. This project will significantly benefit the sustainable material manufacturing industry into the future. Funded by: Australian Research Council - Fellowship-Future ($942,570); University of Tasmania ($676,838).
  • GRANT
    Marine Bioproducts Cooperative Research Centre
    4 May 2022 - 31 Dec 2031
    People funded by this grant:
    • Zhang W,
    • Johnson C,
    • Hurd C,
    • Bolch C,
    • MacLeod C
    Project Total: $59,000,000; The objective of the MB-CRC is to transform Australia's emerging marine bioproducts sector into a globally competitive industry. The focus will be on the industry and market-driven innovations to improve both the supply chain and value chain to deliver economies of scale and competitive capacity for Australia to access high value markets across the globe. Strategic alignment: From Tasmania and for Tasmania: A revolution in use of sustainable marine resources, the use of innovative bioprocessing technologies and the exploitation of local Tasmanian bioproducts with a global impact Human Health and nutrition: Marine derived products will improve human health and nutrition Economic performance: Create regional competitive advantage for the marine bioproducts sector and new businesses through the industry problems we solve. Lift the economic performance of the State on manufacturing and bioresources usage. Environmental sustainability: providing aquaculture and agriculture industries with different market options Educational attainment: Students will be strongly involved in the development of the projects, aligned with Tasmania as a STEM State to collaborate with industry, business and government to translate knowledge into practical and productive outcomes. Funded by: Department of Industry, Innovation and Science - CRC Programme; Marine Bioproducts CRC; University of Tasmania ($2,500,000).
  • GRANT
    Boosting research capability to develop value-added products for the food and wood industries in regional areas.
    17 Sep 2021 - 29 Feb 2028
    People funded by this grant:
    • Paull B,
    • Nolan G,
    • O'Reilly-Wapstra J,
    • Stanley R,
    • Smith J
    Project Total: $4,015,643; Food and wood products are areas of strategic growth for Tasmania and regional Australia, contributing $1.6 billion and $615 million, respectively, to the annual Tasmanian economy. A thriving and sustainable sector requires continued innovation to locally value-add and diversify products and markets. Innovation is underpinned by research strengths and a workforce sector connected to advances in technology and trained graduates. The University of Tasmania (UTas) is committed, through its strategic plan, to deliver impactful research to help Tasmania prosper, and to have influence nationally and globally. Through collaborations, this three-year project will increase research and development activity at UTas to support value-adding in niche food and wood products in regional areas. The delivery of the project will build cross-disciplinary, integrated collaborations at UTas, and together with long-term external partnerships and collaborations, will maximise the benefits of interdisciplinary approaches to delivering impactful research for the regions Funded by: Department of Education, Skills and Employment - Grant-Regional Research Collaboration ($4,005,643); Forico Pty Ltd ($10,000); University of Tasmania ($314,418).
  • CONSULTANCY/CONTRACT RESEARCH
    Developing sustainable biodegradable packaging from wood fibre and kelp polysaccharides
    Norske-Skog (Australasia) Pty Ltd21 Sep 2020 - 31 Dec 2022
    People funded by this grant:
    • Smith J,
    • Johnson C,
    • Thickett S
    Project Total: $58,779; The project ultimately seeks to develop sustainable, biodegradable and moisture-proof packaging, with application as food packaging a priority. The approach is to chemically cross-link kelp-derived polysaccharides with wood fibre. The UTAS team together with a private polymer chemist have developed several protocols to achieve cross linking through chemical modification of the kelp polysaccharides and/or wood fibre. Further development of this technology by the UTAS team is underway. For the purposes of this document, this group - including the private polymer chemist - will be referred to as the 'UTAS team'. Initial work will focus on coating of a paper matrix with kelp polysaccharides, but it is intended that a later stage of the study will seek to include the kelp polysaccharides in the matrix of the paper. Funded by: Norske-Skog (Australasia) Pty Ltd; University of Tasmania.
  • GRANT
    Hierarchical Assembly of Graphene Oxide Nanoparticles as Bionic Interfaces
    Australian Research Council1 Jan 2019 - 31 Dec 2022
    People funded by this grant:
    • Setterlund P,
    • Iyer KS,
    • Harvey A,
    • Hodgetts S,
    • Thickett S
    Project Total: $382,000; This project aims to develop a highly controlled fabrication strategy for electrically conductive polymer/graphene nanoparticles organized in large area patterns as part of an electrically stimulable regenerative bionic platform for regulation of the behaviours of various cells in tissue engineering. The project expects to generate new knowledge in the areas of hybrid polymer nanoparticle synthesis and nanotechnology as well as cell guidance and regeneration. The intended outcomes will have a significant impact on large scale production of carbon-organic biocompatible implants, providing significant benefits in creating a future bioengineering platform for improved health. Funded by: Australian Research Council - Grant-Discovery Projects; University of New South Wales; University of Tasmania.
  • GRANT
    A high speed, high fidelity 3D printer for fabricating microfluidic devices
    Australian Research Council17 Jul 2017 - 31 Dec 2021
    People funded by this grant:
    • Breadmore M,
    • Guijt R,
    • Thickett S,
    • Paull B,
    • Lin C
    Project Total: $930,198; The University of Tasmania and Young Optics Inc will develop a novel 3D printer offering the highest resolution available and fastest printing speed for the single-step manufacturing of complex microfluidic devices. New resins developed to exploit the inert liquid interface layer printing approach will provide unprecedented capability to create micron sized channels interconnected in 3D space and fabricate Lab-on-a-Chip systems that cannot be generated by any current fabrication approach. This novel high speed, high fidelity 3D printer and the new resins to be developed will lead to more effective manufacturing approaches for portable chemical devices and promote complex chemical analysis into the knowledge immediacy culture of today. Funded by: Australian Research Council - Grant-Linkage Projects ($630,000); Young Optics Inc ($300,198); University of Tasmania.
  • GRANT
    Ring-Opening Polymerization in Emulsion
    University of Tasmania1 Jan 2016 - 31 Dec 2016
    People funded by this grant:
    • Thickett S
    Project Total: $14,920; Funded by: University of Tasmania - Grant-Research Enhancement (REGS); University of Tasmania ($14,920).
  • GRANT
    Biomimetic templating radical polymerisation in nanoreactors
    Australian Research Council16 Feb 2015 - 30 Mar 2017
    People funded by this grant:
    • Sutterlund P,
    • O'Reilly R,
    • Thickett S
    Project Total: $360,000; The aim is to develop methodology for synthesis of polymer with hitherto inaccessible control of the microstructure by free radical means, that is the molecular weight distribution and monomer sequences. This will be achieved by combining the two concepts of (i) biomimetic templated radical polymerisation and (ii) polymerisation in nanoreactors in the form of submicron-sized micelles or droplets. Scale-up of the methodology will be developed based on an environmentally friendly approach whereby miniemulsions are generated using carbon dioxide. Increased ability to control the polymer microstructure will enable advanced design of functional polymers with far-reaching applications in materials science, nanotechnology and nanomedicine. Funded by: Australian Research Council - Grant-Discovery Projects; University of Tasmania.
  • GRANT
    Polymer nanoparticles with gradient morphology for environmentally friendly aqueous coatings applications
    Australian Research Council16 Feb 2015 - 30 Mar 2017
    People funded by this grant:
    • Sutterlund P,
    • Thickett S,
    • Brinkhuis R
    Project Total: $330,913; The commercial and practical importance of coatings (paints) in today's society can hardly be overstated. With the ongoing drive towards more environmentally friendly coating systems, there is a strong desire to replace traditionally employed solvent-based coatings with entirely waterborne systems. Waterborne coatings are a key measure by which the coating industry can meet requirements to reduce emission of Volatile Organic Compounds. However, maximum performance can to date not be achieved using waterborne coatings, which in turn limits applications. The overall aim of the present proposal is to develop environmentally friendly high-performance waterborne coatings that will enable replacement of currently employed solvent-based systems. Funded by: Australian Research Council - Grant-Linkage Projects Round 1; University of Tasmania.
  • GRANT
    Micropatterned polymer film coatings for the capture of water directly from the atmosphere
    Australian Research Council19 Jan 2015 - 30 Mar 2017
    People funded by this grant:
    • Neto C,
    • Minett A,
    • Harris A,
    • Thickett S
    Project Total: $325,000; The project will produce micropatterned surface coatings that collect large amounts of water from the atmosphere Funded by: Australian Research Council - Grant-Linkage Projects Round 1; University of Tasmania.
  • NON-UTAS AFFILIATED
    Micropatterned Polymer Film Coatings for the Capture of Water Directly from the Atmosphere
    Australian Research Council1 Jan 2013 - 31 Dec 2014
    People funded by this grant:
    • Neto C,
    • Harris A,
    • Thickett S,
    • Porter B,
    • Minett A
    Project Total: $667,280; Funded by: Australian Research Council