From Fronts to the Seafloor: Understanding benthic functional diversity in the Macquarie Island Marine Park

About the research project

The recently expanded Macquarie Island Marine Park (MIMP) encompasses one of the world's most ecologically significant sub-Antarctic marine ecosystems, where Antarctic Circumpolar Current (ACC) fronts interact with complex seafloor habitats to shape biodiversity patterns across broad spatial scales. Despite its ecological significance, the distribution of seafloor biodiversity and its vulnerability to future climate change remain poorly understood.

This PhD project will investigate patterns of benthic community composition and functional diversity across the Macquarie Island Marine Park using seafloor imagery, habitat mapping and oceanographic data collected through a 2027 RV Investigator voyage and associated research program. The candidate will examine how functional traits and ecological groups vary across depth, habitat and Antarctic Circumpolar Current (ACC) frontal gradients, and use trait-based approaches to explore spatial variation in ecosystem function and biodiversity. These analyses will provide important ecological context for interpreting projected climate vulnerability and potential refugia, contributing to biodiversity conservation, ecosystem monitoring and climate-ready management of the Marine Park.

Research aims

1. Characterise spatial patterns in functional diversity and community composition across environmental and oceanographic gradients in the Macquarie Island Marine Park
2. Determine how functional traits influence species and community vulnerability to projected climate change.
3. Identify ecological indicators of resilience, persistence and ecosystem function in sub-Antarctic benthic communities.
4. Assess the distribution and ecological significance of potential climate refugia within the Marine Park.

Primary supervisor

Meet Associate Professor Nicole Hill

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.

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:

• Hons/ Msc degree in marine ecology or related field
• Demonstrated strong quantitative skills; including R coding and analysis.
• Proven high-level written and communication skills

Additional desirable selection criteria specific to this project:

• Familiarity with benthic systems

Application process

1. Select your project, and check that you meet the eligibility and selection criteria, including citizenship;
2. Contact Associate Professor Nicole Hill 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