Prof B Choat
No more applications being accepted
Funded PhD Project (Students Worldwide)
About the Project
ABOUT THE PROJECT
The Hawkesbury Institute for the Environment (HIE) at the University of Western Sydney, Australia, is seeking a PhD candidate to work on an Australian Research Council (ARC) project in the field of plant eco-physiology. The PhD candidate is anticipated to commence in late 2014 or first semester 2015.
The PhD candidate’s work is under the auspices of an exciting new ARC-supported project “Limits to the resilience of Australian forests and woodlands to drought”. The student will undertake extensive fieldwork within the Australian Supersite Network at a range of sites around Australia.
The central aim of this project is to determine how different forest types across Australia will respond to drought in the context of climate change.
The key aims of the project include establishing the physiological thresholds of woody plant species to drought and elucidating the physiological mechanisms by which plants recover from drought stress.
The project will involve field measurement of plant hydraulic characteristics and laboratory analysis of xylem anatomical traits. There will also be opportunities to examine xylem function with advanced non-invasive imaging techniques at International synchrotron facilities.
The successful applicant will be expected to conduct fieldwork as part of a team of International researchers. Candidates must demonstrate a willingness to work at remote locations under field environments that range from tropical rainforest to cool temperate forest and desert woodlands.
A strong knowledge of plant biology, enthusiastic attitude and self-motivation are required.
The student will be advised by Dr Brendan Choat and work in collaboration with other colleagues at the Hawkesbury Institute for the Environment (HIE).
CRITERIA
The successful applicant should:
» demonstrate excellent academic performance related to the research proposed
» hold qualifications and experience equal to an Australian First Class Bachelor Honours degree
» be enthusiastic and highly motivated to undertake further study at an advanced level
» preferably have a background including plant ecology or plant physiology, experience or an interest in climate change related research, and knowledge of statistical techniques.
Knowledge and experience with quantitative data analyses would be an advantage.
International applicants must also demonstrate a high level of proficiency in the English language. Please refer to the English language requirements at
www.uws.edu.au/international/admissions/english_language_requirement
WHAT DOES THE SCHOLARSHIP PROVIDE?
» Domestic students will receive a tax free stipend of $35,392 per annum and a funded place in the doctoral degree.
» International students will receive a tax free stipend of $35,392 per annum. Those with a strong track record may receive a fee waiver.
» Funding is available for project costs and conference travel.
NEED MORE INFORMATION?
» Applicants can discuss their eligibility and interests with Dr Brendan Choat [Email Address Removed]
» Contact the Office of Research Services to discuss enrolment and scholarships at [Email Address Removed]
HOW TO APPLY
Submit an application form and CV (including two referees) by 30 May 2014.
The application form can be downloaded from the web:
www.uws.edu.au/research/scholarships