Determining the Acclimation Capacity of Australian Rainforest Trees Growing in Warm And Cool Climates

The Hawkesbury Institute for the Environment (HIE) at Western Sydney University is a research leader in ecosystem function and environmental responses to climate change with unique world-class research facilities and over 50 scientists.

We are seeking a highly motivated PhD candidate for a project in the field of plant ecophysiology and climate change. The PhD candidate is expected to commence around October 2016.

The PhD candidate’s work will form a complementary research stream to an exciting new ARC-supported project: “How will Australian rainforest trees cope with climate warming?.” This project aims to compare and contrast the temperature acclimation capacity of photosynthesis and respiration in rainforest trees growing in cool and warm climates.

The study will include research at field sites and laboratory studies in controlled-environment glasshouses in testing whether species in warmer climates have a reduced capacity to physiologically adjust compared to species in cool climates. As plant metabolic responses to warming currently represent one of the largest uncertainties in Earth System models, understanding acclimation capacity is crucial to assess tree responses to future climate warming and predict future species distribution ranges.

Applicants should be enthusiastic and highly motivated to undertake further study at an advanced level. A good background in plant physiology and plant ecology and interest in climate change research are required. A valid driver’s license, ability to travel and work in field sites is required.

The student will be based at HIE at Western Sydney University on the Hawkesbury Campus in Richmond, NSW and will join a large and diverse cohort of scientists at all career levels. The student will learn a variety of eco-physiological measuring techniques to assess plant metabolism and growth as well as developing useful analytical skills.

The student will be advised by Dr. Kristine Crous and work in collaboration with other colleagues at WSU.

CRITERIA
The successful applicant should:
» demonstrate excellent academic performance in one or more of the following areas: plant physiology or plant ecology
» hold qualifications and experience equal to an Australian First Class Bachelor Honours degree or equivalent overseas qualifications and be enthusiastic and highly motivated to undertake further study at an advanced level
» have an interest and degree of familiarity with climate change impacts on ecosystem processes, applications of stable isotopes to their study and modelling approaches
» International applicants must demonstrate a high level of proficiency in the English language. Please refer to the English language requirements at www.westernsydney.edu.au/ international/home/admissions/entry_requirements

HOW TO APPLY
» Applicants should discuss their eligibility and interests with Dr Kristine Crous +61 (02) 4570 1125 or via email at [Email Address Removed]
» Contact the Graduate Research School at [Email Address Removed].
» Please submit an application form, CV, names and contact information of two referees, and a one-page document stating how your research interests and background align with the project’s aims.

Closing date 3 June 2016.

» The application form can be downloaded from the web: www.westernsydney.edu.au/graduate_research_school/grs/scholarships/current_scholarships