Alban and Barbara Lynch Award

About the Alban and Barbara Lynch Award

Established in 2022 in memory of Emeritus Professor Alban Lynch and his wife Barbara in recognition of their immense contribution to The University of Queensland and the Julius Kruttschnitt Mineral Research Centre. The purpose of the award is to support the development of an exceptional student facing financial need or disadvantage.

Recommending authority

Director, Sustainable Minerals Institute on the advice of the Director, Julius Kruttschnitt Mineral Research Centre.

Eligibility

The award is open to Higher Degree by Research (HDR) candidates studying at The University of Queensland's Sustainable Minerals Institute.

Selection Process

Applicants will be ranked on the basis of the following criteria:

academic achievement
explanation of how the award will be used for enhancing the student's skills and capabilities
demonstration of the value of the award to the development of the student
budget and cost outline

Other Provisions

The student should demonstrate the capacity to help advance improved practices in the industry to aid in adopting superior technology, processes, environmental and water management to help improve the efficiency and reduce the negative impacts of mining whilst still advancing this critical industry globally.
Consideration will be given to a student from a low socio-economic background, from regional Australia or an international student.
Additional consideration will be given to students who have contributed to the life of the Julius Kruttschnitt Mineral Research Centre (JKMRC).

Nature of the award

The value of the award is up to $1,000 for one year.

Entry requirements

Students should be nominated for the award by their advisors. Please complete the nomination form to include:

Details of the student’s research topic
The student’s academic achievement
The potential impact of the student's research topic
Explanation of how the award will be used and how it will benefit the student
Other relevant information as noted in the 'Other Provisions' section

Apply for the award

Nominations are now open for 2026.

Please complete the nomination form and return to smi.admin@uq.edu.au by Friday, 29 May 2026.

The award will be presented at the SMI Memorial Awards Day on Friday, 3 July 2026 and the winning entrant will be invited to deliver a presentation on their research.

Nomination form

About Alban and Barbara Lynch

Emeritus Professor Alban Lynch was the founding director of the Julius Kruttschnitt Minerals Research Centre at The University of Queensland. His immense and enduring contributions transformed minerals industry research and postgraduate training nationally and internationally. Alban also developed essential tools for designing and operating mineral processing plants that remain in use today.

Barbara Lynch, Alban’s wife, played an important role in the life of the JKMRC providing outstanding support to students and their families through her time and her compassion.

Barbara passed away in 2016, and Alban passed away in 2021. This award is maintained through the donations of their family and friends in memory of their committment to education.