Environmental market mechanisms

Markets for nature - lessons from water, fisheries and carbon

Degree type

PhD

Closing date

1 June 2024

Campus

Hobart

Citizenship requirement

Domestic

About the research project

Use of market-based approaches for biodiversity and nature conservation is increasing. Biodiversity offsetting is widespread and is likely to form a key element of Australia's proposed nature repair market framework. Despite their prominence, there is very little evidence that these schemes are successful in halting or reversing biodiversity decline. Schemes that establish tradeable property rights in water, fish, and carbon credits have arguably enjoyed more success. This project will investigate the features of these market-based natural resource regimes that distinguish them from markets for biodiversity and ecosystems. The aim of the project is to identify whether and how biodiversity-focussed market mechanisms can form a useful part of Australia's legal framework for nature conservation.

Primary Supervisor

Meet Prof Jan McDonald

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 $32,192 per annum (2024 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.

Other funding opportunities and fees

For further information regarding other scholarships on offer, and the various fees of undertaking a research degree, please visit our Scholarships and fees on research degrees page.

Eligibility

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

Ensure your eligibility for the scholarship round by referring to our Key Dates.

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:

  • Honours degree in Law
  • Strong background in environmental law or demonstrated ability to acquire same

Additional desirable selection criteria specific to this project:

  • High levels of written and oral English

Application process

  1. Select your project, and check that you meet the eligibility and selection criteria, including citizenship;
  2. Contact Prof Jan McDonald to discuss your suitability and the project's requirements; and
  3. In your application:
    • 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.
    • Submit a signed supervisory support form, a CV including contact details of 2 referees and your project research proposal.
  4. Apply prior to 1 June 2024.

Full details of the application process can be found under the 'How to apply' section of the Research Degrees website.

Following the 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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