Predictive network modelling of Tasmanian Lake Ecosystems

About the research project

Lakes in the Central Plateau region in Tasmania are diverse and ecologically significant, exhibiting high degrees of species endemism. They also provide key ecosystem services, including hydropower generation, irrigation, and recreational fisheries. However, these critical ecosystems face growing threats from changes in water-level regime and increasing frequency of extreme temperatures with climate change. Moreover, management of these systems become more complex when biodiversity conservation goals come into conflict with ecosystem service provision.

Network-based models, which conceptualise ecological communities as interconnected systems of species, environmental variables, and energy flows, are powerful tools for optimising trade-offs between conservation and ecosystem service provision, particularly under a rapidly changing climate. Yet, these approaches are constrained by lack of empirical data on population dynamics, trophic interactions, and environmental fluctuations in many threatened ecosystems. This project will close key data gaps and deliver robust, predictive models that can be embedded in adaptive-management frameworks to safeguard these unique inland waters.

The project aims to:

1. Deliver dynamic models of population dynamics and species interactions from systematic surveys of lake communities
2. Empirically test and refine model predictions through targeted lake‐ and mesocosm-scale manipulative experiments.
3. Generate decision-support scenarios identifying optimal trade-offs between biodiversity outcomes and ecosystem service provision.

This research project will be conducted in close collaboration with Inland Fisheries Service Tasmania, Hydro Tasmania, and Anglers Alliance Tasmania, providing scope to incorporate citizen science data streams and translate research findings into decision-support tools with major stakeholders.

Primary supervisor

Meet Doctor Jia Huan Liew

Funding

The successful applicant will receive a scholarship which provides:

• a living allowance stipend co-funded with Inland Fisheries Service Tasmania, Hydro Tasmania, and Anglers Alliance 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:

• Applicants must be able to undertake the project on a full-time basis and on-campus.
• Applicants must have been awarded (or shortly be awarded) a First Class Honours degree or hold equivalent qualifications or relevant and substantial research experience in ecology, biology, environmental science or related disciplines.
• English language score must meet minimum entry requirements.

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 research and analytical skills (including familiarity with the R coding language, or similar).
• Ability to conduct fieldwork independently.
• Ability to work as part of an interdisciplinary team.
• Current driver’s license.

Additional desirable selection criteria specific to this project:

• Excellent written and verbal scientific communication skills.
• Experience working with multiple stakeholders.
• Fish and freshwater invertebrate identification skills.
• Experience with stable isotope analysis.

Application process

1. Select your project, and check that you meet the eligibility and selection criteria, including citizenship;
2. Contact Doctor Jia Huan Liew 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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