Cultural acceptance of geomorphic landform construction in post-closure mine site planning

About the research project

This PhD project examines the cultural acceptance of geomorphic landform construction in post‑closure mine site planning, integrating geoscientific and geoengineering approaches within the Australian context. Advances in geomorphic rehabilitation and mine landform engineering seek to emulate natural landscape processes when constructing closure landforms, with a view to achieve long‑term physical stability, erosion resistance, and ecological function. Despite their technical sophistication, these engineered landforms are embedded within culturally meaningful landscapes, where perceptions of legitimacy, naturalness, and care strongly influence their social acceptance.

The project will investigate how geomorphic design principles—such as drainage network evolution, materials characterisation, slope stability modelling, and long‑term landscape performance—intersect with cultural values, particularly those of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island communities, alongside view of regulators, other community groups, and industry practitioners. A mixed‑methods approach will be used in this research. You will conduct in-situ or modelled geomorphic analyses informed by landform design rationale, geophysical and hydrographic data, and performance monitoring outputs. You will then conduct qualitative research, including interviews, participatory workshops, and case study research related to existing or proposed landform designs in mine closure proposals or plans.

The research will develop an integrative framework linking geomorphology, geoengineering, and cultural landscape values. The project aims to inform closure practices through the design of culturally appropriate and environmentally sound, geoengineered landforms.

Primary supervisor

Meet Doctor Melinda McHenry

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 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.

Additional Funding

Successful applicant eligible for funded research travel, accomodation and meals while visiting a selection of mine-sites and key locations across Australia to conduct in-person research and field work.

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:

• Applications are open to candidates with a background in geomorphology, environmental cultural studies, geoscience or geoengineering.
• Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander and other First Nations people are especially encouraged to apply.

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:

• Past training or experience in undertaking focus group, interview or other human-centred research work.
• Willingness to travel to remote locations and comply with mine-site regulations and induction requirements.

Additional desirable selection criteria specific to this project:

• Experience with the extractive industries, especially closure regulations.
• Experience with geoengineering techniques and approaches.

Application process

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

Apply nowExplore other projects