Impact of increased drought frequency and climate change on UK Ericoid plant communities: comparison with Australia and potential adaptation strategies

Hawkesbury Institute for the Environment at Western Sydney University is offering a unique PhD Scholarship opportunity in conjunction with the University of Hertfordshire under a Dual Award partnership. The partnership means that you can study for a PhD within both universities, gaining incredible experience, mentoring opportunities and professional development recognised by both universities.

We have three project opportunities to choose from, allowing you to explore your area of interest alongside the world’s most respected research scientists. The following project is available please make contact with the academic to request more information or apply:

Ericoid-dominated plant communities are dominated by a worldwide group of closely related families, Ericales, that thrive on free-draining, acidic soils that are very low in plant nutrients. Such sites are often subject to summer droughts in the distinctive heathland community that pose a threat to biodiversity. Given the prominence of heathlands in UK agricultural landscapes and parklands in the greater Sydney basin, we seek a student to examine the impact of drought on particular species with Ericoiddominated plant communities in Sydney and Hertfordshire to understand how some withstand periodic droughts whilst others are eliminated by recurrent, severe drought. The work ultimately will use evidence from Sydney heathlands can help shape UK heathland management and adaptation to climate change.

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 will receive a fee waiver. Funding is available for project costs and conference travel.

CRITERIA
hold qualifications and experience equal to one of the following (i) an Australian First Class Bachelor Honours degree, (ii) coursework Masters with at least a 25% research component , (iii) a Research Masters degree or (iv) equivalent overseas qualifications. » 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
Discuss eligibility and interests with the contact nominated » 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: 8 October 2017
» The application form can be downloaded: https://www.westernsydney.edu.au/graduate_research_school/grs/scholarships/current_scholarships