Intelligent Eco-Astronomy: Using Machine Learning and Astronomical Telescope Data to Map and Protect Tasmania’s Dark Skies and Atmospheric Health

About the research project

Tasmania hosts some of the world’s most pristine night skies and most fragile island ecosystems, yet both are increasingly threatened by expanding artificial light, atmospheric degradation, and rapid climate change. At the same time, astronomical observatories continuously monitor sky brightness, atmospheric transparency, extinction, cloud layers, and aerosol content. These measurements represent a uniquely sensitive, under-used environmental dataset, capable of revealing subtle changes in human impact and atmospheric health long before they become visible through conventional monitoring. Harnessing this information to quantify ecological pressure and safeguard dark-sky environments is a major emerging challenge at the interface of astronomy, ecology, and climate science.

This PhD project will address that challenge by developing advanced machine-learning methodologies to analyse long-term astronomical data from the University of Tasmania (UTAS) robotic telescopes. The student will combine sky-brightness measurements, atmospheric transparency curves, and cloud statistics with satellite-based light-pollution maps and publicly available climate and ecological datasets. Using techniques such as time-series modelling, anomaly detection, and spatial ML classification, the candidate will identify trends in artificial light expansion, detect shifts in atmospheric composition linked to smoke or aerosol events, and quantify pressures on nocturnal ecosystems.

A key innovation will be the creation of a new environmental monitoring framework: Tasmania’s first Dark Sky and Atmospheric Health Index. By integrating ML-driven environmental indicators with GIS-based ecological sensitivity layers, the student will produce spatially resolved vulnerability maps and predictive models of future sky quality under different development and climate scenarios. This index will serve as a scientific tool for conservation agencies, policy makers, and dark-sky advocates, enabling evidence-based protection of Tasmania’s night environment.

Beyond regional monitoring, the project has a strong strategic dimension. By coordinating sky measurements from UTAS telescopes with national and international environmental datasets, and by building links with ecological and atmospheric research groups, the student will contribute to the foundation of a Southern Hemisphere eco-astronomy network. This framework will position UTAS as a leader in dark-sky and environmental monitoring, support the establishment of dark-sky reserves, and provide pathways for future extensions into smoke detection, marine light pollution impacts, and climate–fire interactions.

Environmental impact: The project will open new avenues in eco-astronomy, demonstrating how astronomical instruments can support climate resilience and biodiversity protection. At the same time, it will establish the methodological and organisational foundations for UTAS, and Tasmania, to play a leading role in environmental monitoring and dark-sky conservation over the coming decade.

Primary supervisor

Meet Doctor Karelle Siellez

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 funded by University of Tasmania of $34,315 per annum 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)

A tuition fee offset may be offered to eligible international applicants following competitive assessment 

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 for 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.

Additional eligibility criteria specific to this project/scholarship:

• Candidates should hold a strong undergraduate degree with Honours (or equivalent) in physics, astronomy, computer science, or a related discipline.
• A demonstrated background in quantitative methods and data analysis is required.
• Applicants must also meet the University’s minimum entry requirements for Higher Degree by Research, including English language proficiency

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:

• Strong academic performance in physics, astrophysics, computer science, or a closely related field.
• Proficiency in scientific programming (e.g. Python, C/C++, or similar) and familiarity with machine learning or statistical modelling.
• Demonstrated ability to work with large datasets and apply quantitative methods to research questions.
• Strong written and oral communication skills, with the capacity to present research clearly to both technical and general audiences.
• Capacity to work independently, as well as within an international, collaborative team environment.

Additional desirable selection criteria specific to this project:

• Prior experience in machine learning frameworks
• Knowledge of astrophysics, gravitational waves, or time-domain astronomy, particularly experience with telescope operations or transient surveys.
• Familiarity with high-performance computing or cloud platforms for large-scale data processing.
• Experience working in an interdisciplinary context, linking physics and data science.
• Evidence of engagement in international collaborations or research projects.
• Strong interest in Climate change and interest in climate change law.

Application process

1. Select your project, and check that you meet the eligibility and selection criteria, including citizenship;
2. Contact Doctor Karelle Siellez 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 October 2026.

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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