Freezing tolerance in conifers

Degree type

PhD

Closing date

27 March 2023

Campus

Hobart

Citizenship requirement

Domestic/International

About the research project

This project will investigate the evolution and physiology of freezing tolerance in conifers. Conifers range from tropical rainforest to near the northernmost parts of Eurasia and North America. They therefore range in habitat from places that are never exposed to frost, to places that are impacted by extreme freezing. The past and current distribution and ecology of different families and genera of conifers suggest that the evolution of freezing tolerance has played a major role in the history of these plants.

The project will identify patterns and processes in the evolution of this important group of plants through the integrated use of experimental studies of freezing tolerance and phylogenetic trait analysis in a diverse array of conifers.

Primary Supervisor

Meet Prof Greg Jordan

Funding

Applicants will be considered for a Research Training Program (RTP) scholarship or Tasmania Graduate Research Scholarship (TGRS) which, if successful, provides:

  • a living allowance stipend of $31,500 per annum (2023 rate, indexed annually) for 3.5 years
  • a relocation allowance of up to $2,000
  • a tuition fees offset covering the cost of tuition fees for up to four years (domestic applicants only)

If successful, international applicants will receive a University of Tasmania Fees Offset for up to four years.

As part of the application process you may indicate if you do not wish to be considered for scholarship funding.

Eligibility

Applicants should review the Higher Degree by Research minimum entry requirements.

Additional eligibility criteria specific to this project/scholarship:

  • Applicants must be able to undertake the project on-campus

Selection Criteria

The project is competitively assessed and awarded.  Selection is based on academic merit and suitability to the project as determined by the College.

Additional essential selection criteria specific to this project:

  • First class honours (or equivalent) in plant science

Additional desirable selection criteria specific to this project:

  • Practical experience in plant science
  • Experience in field work
  • Statistical knowledge, including use of R

Application process

There is a three-step application process:

  1. Select your project, and check you meet the eligibility and selection criteria;
  2. Contact the Primary Supervisor, Prof Greg Jordan to discuss your suitability and the project's requirements; and
  3. Submit an application by the closing date listed above.
    • Copy and paste the title of the project from this advertisement into your application. If you don’t correctly do this your application may be rejected.
    • As part of your application, you will be required to submit a covering letter, a CV including 2 x referees and your project research proposal.

Following the application closing date applications will be assessed within the College. Applicants should expect to receive notification of the outcome by email by the advertised outcome date.

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