Deciphering shell layers

Deciphering shell layers that chronicle marine ecosystem change across Australia

Degree type

PhD

Closing date

1 July 2023

Campus

Hobart

Citizenship requirement

Domestic

About the research project

This PhD project aims to generate critical information to identify and remediate the cumulative stressors affecting shallow water sediment habitats. The project will pioneer ecological reconstructions through reading date-validated shell chronicles embedded in sediment layers at sites across Tasmania. Following this, field surveys will be conducted across Tasmania and globally to characterise key threats. Finally, the project will quantify key species traits and stressors that are linked to high extinction risk.

Primary Supervisor

Meet Dr Beth Strain

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.

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

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 biology, ecology, or a related field of research
  • Demonstrated proficiency in written and verbal English language
  • Experience in analytical laboratory methods
  • Experience in ecological field work

Additional desirable selection criteria specific to this project:

  • Experience in quantitative methods with a thorough understanding of experimental design and statistics
  • Knowledge of benthic invertebrate taxonomy
  • Scientific diving qualifications

Application process

  1. Select your project, and check that you meet the eligibility and selection criteria, including citizenship;
  2. Contact Dr Beth Strain 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 July 2023.

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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