About the Project
The Hawkesbury Institute for the Environment (HIE) is a research institute within Western Sydney University. HIE has rapidly become a research leader in environmental and ecological research, with a strong reputation for delivering research outcomes of the highest quality. HIE houses a team of over 50 academic research scientists and over 50 PhD students with access to a unique suite of world-class research facilities.
This PhD project will include research at field sites and in controlled-environment facilities exploring the availability and quality of floral resources across different seasons, and factors influencing pollinator choice of foraging plants. This will include assessment of candidate species for on-farm floral resource enhancement and the impact of climate change manipulations on floral resource quality and attractiveness to bees. The project is suitable for a candidate with strong interests and preferably research experience in subjects such as ecology, conservation, insect behaviour and/or botany.
Applicants should be enthusiastic and highly motivated to undertake further study at an advanced level. A strong background in one or more of the relevant subject areas listed above and a strong interest in the research issues are required. A valid driver’s licence, and willingness to travel and work in offcampus field sites are also essential.
The student will be based at HIE at the University’s 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 field and laboratory techniques to sample and analyze plant traits and communities, and assess pollinator use of floral resources. The PhD program will also develop the candidate’s statistical, analytical and communication skills, and will involve collaboration with the wider Pollination Project team and our industry partners.
What does the Scholarship provide? » Domestic students will receive a tax free stipend of $26,682 per annum and a funded place in the doctoral degree.
» International students will receive a tax free stipend of $26,682 per annum. Those with a strong track record may receive a fee waiver.
» Funding is available for project costs and conference travel.
Criteria We welcome applicants from a range of backgrounds, who are keen to apply their skills to key issues in environmental biology. In particular, the project is suitable for candidates with strong interests and previous experience in ecology, botany and/or insect behaviour. The successful applicant should:
» hold qualifications and experience equal to an Australian First Class Bachelor Honours degree, coursework Masters with at least a 25% research component , Research Masters degree, or equivalent overseas qualifications » demonstrate strong academic performance in subjects relevant to ecology, animal behaviour and entomology
» have an understanding of the importance of pollination services and threats to pollinator populations » be willing to learn, modern sampling and analytical techniques applicable to insect community ecology (e.g. microsocopy and DNA Barcoding), pollination (e.g. pollen analysis), and insect behavior (e.g. controlled field experiments)
» be enthusiastic and highly motivated to undertake further study at an advanced level
» International applicants must also 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 Prof James Cook [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 align with the project’s aims
Closing date: 21 July 2017
» The application form can be downloaded: www.westernsydney.edu.au/graduate_research_school/grs/scholarships/current_scholarships
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