Reproductive biology and spawning dynamics of Southern Calamari (Sepioteuthis australis): implications for managing short-lived species

About the research project

Many fisheries management strategies are designed for long-lived fish species, yet an increasing number of valuable fisheries target short-lived species whose populations can change rapidly from year to year. To manage these fisheries sustainably, we need a better understanding of how reproduction influences population productivity and recovery. This project will improve our understanding of the reproductive biology of southern calamari (Sepioteuthis australis) and develop practical tools to support sustainable fisheries management.

Southern calamari is an economically and socially important species that supports commercial and recreational fisheries throughout south-eastern Australia. Recent concerns about declining abundance in some regions have highlighted the need for improved biological information to support stock assessment and management.

The successful candidate will investigate how growth, reproduction, and spawning vary between individuals and throughout the spawning season. The project will examine key questions such as:

• How does reproductive output vary with age, size, and growth?
• Do southern calamari have the capacity to spawn repeatedly throughout the spawning season?
• Which spawning periods contribute most to future recruitment?
• How can reproductive information be used to develop biological reference points and improve spawning-closure strategies?

The research will involve analysing biological samples collected from southern calamari, including reproductive tissue and ageing structures. Laboratory-based techniques will be used to determine reproductive condition, spawning patterns, growth rates, and reproductive output. These biological data will then be incorporated into population models to develop management reference points and evaluate alternative spawning-closure strategies.

Opportunities and Training

This project provides an opportunity to work at the interface of marine ecology, fisheries science, and quantitative modelling. The student will receive training in:

• Reproductive biology and histological techniques
• Fisheries stock assessment concepts
• Statistical analysis and quantitative modelling
• Population dynamics and management strategy evaluation
• Scientific communication and publication

The project is based within the Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies (IMAS), University of Tasmania, and will contribute directly to research supporting fisheries management in Australia. The student will work closely with researchers and fisheries scientists with expertise in cephalopod biology, fisheries assessment, and marine resource management. Opportunities may be available to present research at scientific conferences and engage with industry and fisheries management stakeholders.

This project is ideal for students interested in marine biology, ecology, fisheries science, conservation, and applied quantitative research, and who wish to contribute to evidence-based management of an important Australian fishery resource.

Primary supervisor

Meet Doctor Ruth Sharples

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:

Applicants must meet the University of Tasmania Higher Degree by Research minimum entry requirements.

In addition, applicants should have:

• A background in marine biology, fisheries science, ecology, zoology, environmental science, quantitative biology, or a related discipline.
• Demonstrated interest in fisheries, marine ecology, population dynamics, quantitative analysis, or natural resource management.
• Strong analytical and quantitative skills, including experience with statistical analysis.
• The ability to undertake laboratory-based biological research and data analysis.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Applications are open to both domestic and international applicants.

Desirable, but not essential:

• Experience with fisheries science, reproductive biology, histology, population modelling, or quantitative ecological analyses.
• Experience using statistical software such as R.
• Experience working with biological datasets.

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:

Applicants must also demonstrate:

• A Bachelor Honours degree (First Class or Upper Second Class Honours) or equivalent qualification in marine biology, fisheries science, ecology, zoology, environmental science, quantitative biology, or a related discipline.
• Strong quantitative and analytical skills, including experience with statistical analysis and data interpretation.
• Demonstrated interest in marine ecology, fisheries science, population dynamics, or natural resource management.
• Capacity to undertake both laboratory-based and quantitative research.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative research team.

Additional desirable selection criteria specific to this project:

• Experience with statistical software such as R.
• Experience analysing biological or ecological datasets.
• Knowledge of fisheries science, reproductive biology, population modelling, or marine resource management.
• Experience with laboratory techniques, including biological sample processing or histological methods.

Application process

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