A fully-funded PhD position in tree root systems is available based in the School of Biological Sciences at Te Herenga Waka - Victoria University of Wellington in partnership with Scion within the Tree Root Microbiome Programme. The role is fully funded with a stipend of $40,000 per year for three years.
The research will investigate approaches to developing more accurate estimates of tree root surface area and biomass by root type in different tree ages of Pinus radiata. This knowledge would facilitate clearer assessments of tree root allometry and as such provide the background framework for modelling tree productivity and carbon balance and tree-root-microbiome ecology. While there is good knowledge on above ground tree allometry and biomass for some trees, much less known about the root systems. Yet, this knowledge will underpin our ability to predict tree growth and the flow of multiple ecosystem services from forests. The project would include tree biomass sampling, root measurements, and analysis
The position is open to national and international candidates with Honours and/or Masters Degrees in a relevant discipline with experience in plant and/or tree root systems and/or the plant-soil interface. The ideal candidate will be self-motivated, collaborative, have good communication and problem-solving skills (ideally evidence of publishing or in prep publications from past research), and analytical skills, ideally within programming languages such as R. A full drivers licence is preferred.
Prior to undertaking this scholarship, successful applicants will have to meet the entry requirements to undertake PhDs at Te Herenga Waka - Victoria University of Wellington which can be found here https://www.wgtn.ac.nz/fgr and have received a conditional offer of admission.
Applications will be accepted up to 1st December 2023 (NZDT). Start dates will be discussed in interviews. Please send a cover letter, CV, and academic transcripts to Dr. Nicola Day [Email Address Removed]. The successful PhD student will be co-supervised by Nicola Day (VUW) and Loretta Garrett (Scion).