Mechanistic responses of phosphorus-limited forests to CO2 enrichment

The Hawkesbury Institute for the Environment (HIE) is offering a PhD research scholarship, to examine the effects of phosphorus (P) × CO2 interactions on below-ground responses of forest ecosystems. The project will leverage new mechanistic knowledge in models of the global carbon cycle and its responses to climate change and rising CO2. Rising atmospheric CO2 poses a potential for significant changes to forest functioning in the future. The world's first ever mature forest free-air CO2 enrichment experiment, EucFACE, has continued over the past twelve years with the critical nutrient P identified as key to our understanding of forest responses to elevated CO2.

To directly address how P interacts with elevated CO2, we are seeking a highly-motivated candidate in the field of global change ecology and biogeochemistry for a 3-year PhD program of research to commence in 2025. The successful candidate will conduct research in the EucFACE experiment at WSU Hawkesbury Campus to investigate soil processes altered by P addition in combination with elevated CO2. This work will support and interact with simulation modelling work by our project team to help close the gap on P × CO2 interactions in forest ecosystems. The student will undertake measurements and data analysis based on the response of the mature eucalypt forest ecosystem to experimental manipulation. They will work with an ecosystem process model to explore the mechanistic basis for the responses observed.

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 will take a key role 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. HIE is a leading centre recognised globally for it's contributions to terrestrial ecology and global change.

WHAT DOES THE SCHOLARSHIP PROVIDE?

• Domestic candidates will receive a tax-free stipend of $32,192 (AUD) per annum for up to 3 years to support living costs, supported by the Research Training Program (RTP) Fee Offset.
• International candidates will receive a tax-free stipend of $32,192 (AUD) per annum for up to 3 years to support living costs. Those with a strong track record will be eligible for a tuition fee waiver.
• International candidates are required to hold an Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) insurance policy for the duration of their study in Australia. This cost is not covered by the scholarship.
• Support for conference attendance, fieldwork and additional costs as approved by Institute.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

We welcome applicants from a range of backgrounds, who are keen to apply their skills to key issues in the global carbon cycle and plant-soil interactions to address knowledge gaps related to ecosystems response to future climates. In particular, the project is suitable for candidates with strong interests in biogeochemistry, soil science and/or simulation models.

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 Master’s degree, or (iv) equivalent overseas qualifications.
• demonstrate strong academic performance in subjects relevant to soil science, biogeochemistry and ecology with a concrete interest in climate change/rising CO2.
• Strong academic performance in quantitative subjects such as mathematical statistics, programming, coding or data analysis is an advantage.
• demonstrate a willingness to undertake field-based research and develop analytical techniques.
• be willing to learn simulation modelling approaches relevant to global change.
• 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://tinyurl.com/3swbbef4

Follow the step-by-step instructions on the how to apply for a project scholarship page.

• 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; Assoc Prof. Catriona Macdonald: c.macdonald@westernsydney.edu.au

For questions and advice about the scholarship application process, please submit your scholarship enquiry:

• Currently enrolled WSU HDR candidate, please submit your enquiry here
• Not currently enrolled WSU HDR candidate, please submit your enquiry here

Use the email subject line: Application PS2024_125_HIE

Closing date: 30 September 2024

*Applications close at 11.59pm Australian Eastern Daylight Time (AEDT).