Biological amendments can improve soil/ plant health and crop performance and provide resilience against abiotic and biotic stresses. This project will assess (1) soil/ plant functionality based on key taxa or functional groups that contribute to ecosystem/ host services across contrasting landscapes and management practices at different spatial (local, regional and national) scales. (2) Establishment of new soil health indicators to assess positive impact of biological amendments on soil and host functions. A mechanistic understanding of biological input impacts on soil/ plant biology will enable transferability of knowledge across a spectrum that complement chemical fertilisers. The project will identify principles of effective combinations of biological and chemical fertilisers and determine the underlying mechanisms involved.
The Hawkesbury Institute for the Environment (HIE) within Western Sydney University is seeking a highly-motivated candidate for a 3-year PhD program of research to commence in 2022 in the field of soil/ plant biology and ecosystem functions. The successful candidate will conduct research to provide national level data on impact of biological inputs on soil/ plant biology and functions. The PhD candidate will join a vibrant research team with opportunities to interact with a group of world-class collaborators in an inter-disciplinary environment. The candidate is also expected to take leading roles in disseminating research results through scientific publications and conference presentations. The PhD program is based at the Hawkesbury Campus of Western Sydney University in Richmond, New South Wales, Australia.
ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA
We welcome applicants from a range of backgrounds who are keen to apply their skills to the project topic. The successful applicant should:
- hold qualifications and experience equal to one of the following (i) an Australian First Class Bachelor (Honours) degree, (ii) coursework Masters with at least 25% research component, (iii) Research Masters degree, or (iv) equivalent international qualifications.
- demonstrate strong academic performance in soil and plant microbiology.
- demonstrate a willingness to undertake field-based research in remote areas.
- be enthusiastic and highly motivated to undertake further study at an advanced level.
- possess excellent written and verbal communication skills.
International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency.
HOW TO APPLY
Complete the application via the link: https://bit.ly/3P5Ukkw
Follow the step-by-step instructions on the how to apply for a project scholarship.
- Note: You do not need to complete 'Step 5: Submit an online application for admission' when applying for this scholarship. You must complete 'Step 6: Submit an online application for a project scholarship'.
Incomplete applications or applications that do not conform to the above requirements will not be considered.
For questions and advice about the research project, please contact the Lead Researcher; Professor Brajesh Singh: [Email Address Removed]
For questions and advice about the application process, please contact the Graduate Research School: [Email Address Removed].
Use the email subject line: Application PS2022_050_HIE
Closing date: 31 August 2022
*Applications close at 11.59pm Australian Eastern Standard Time (AEST).