Understanding social-ecological drivers of restoration success in seagrass (Heterozostera nigricaulis) habitats

About the research project

Seagrass meadows are among the world's most valuable coastal ecosystems, providing habitat for fisheries, supporting biodiversity, enhancing water quality, storing carbon, and delivering important cultural and recreational benefits. Despite their significance, seagrass habitats are declining globally due to human pressures and environmental change. Successful restoration requires not only ecological knowledge but also an understanding of the social factors that influence conservation outcomes. This interdisciplinary PhD project will investigate the social-ecological drivers of seagrass restoration success through a combination of comparative social research, community engagement studies, and restoration experiments.

The first chapter of the project will examine the ecological and social dimensions of fisheries associated with seagrass habitats in Australia and Chile. Through an established international collaboration with Dr Eva Anja Rothausler from Universidad Católica del Norte (Chile), the research will compare use of seagrass habitats for recreational and commercial fisheries in the two countries. The study will explore stakeholder perceptions, cultural values, and governance arrangements, identifying opportunities for improved management and conservation of seagrass-dependent fisheries.

The second chapter will focus on community participation in seagrass restoration initiatives in SE Tasmania. Restoration success often depends on public support and community stewardship, yet little is known about how involvement in restoration influences perceptions and behaviours. Using surveys, interviews, and participatory approaches, the project will investigate community knowledge, attitudes, and expectations before and after involvement in restoration activities. This research will provide insights into how restoration programs can foster long-term engagement and support for seagrass conservation.

The third chapter will involve an experimental investigation of seagrass restoration techniques, with a particular focus on sprig culturing and donor material quality. Experiments will assess how variation in sprig characteristics influences establishment, growth, and restoration outcomes. Findings will contribute to the development of more effective and scalable restoration methods.

Primary supervisor

Meet Doctor Beth Strain

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.

Additional Funding

The successful candidate will benefit from access to the newly established IMAS seagrass nursery facility. Additional support for the project may be provided through pending funding applications, including the invited Disney Foundation proposal, Reconnecting the Seafloor: Community Restoration of Seagrass Meadows for the Red Handfish ($214,820 requested), and a COALAR Seagrass Collaboration proposal currently being resubmitted ($50,000 requested). If successful, these grants will further support fieldwork, restoration experiments, community engagement activities, international collaboration, and student research opportunities.

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:

• Expertise in marine ecology and social science: A strong background in marine ecology and/or socio-ecology is critical for understanding the biological and ecological aspects of seagrass meadows 
• Basic lab skills: Experience with laboratory-based research and the ability to follow experimental protocols and maintain accurate records
• Data collection and analysis skills: Ability to collect, manage and analyse ecological and/or social science data using statistical and computational methods
• Project management: Project management skills to coordinate various aspects of the research, including experimental design, data collection, and analysis. This also involves managing timelines, resources, and team members effectively
• Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills to document research findings, prepare manuscripts, and present results to stakeholders

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:

• Expertise in marine biology and ecology: A strong background in marine biology and ecology is critical for understanding the biological and ecological aspects of seagrass meadows 
• Marine field-work experience, including ecological surveys, monitoring, sampling, or restoration activities in coastal environments
• Experience with aquaculture systems
• Experience conducting social science research, such as surveys, interviews, focus groups, participatory research, or stakeholder engagement
• Data collection and analysis skills: Ability to analyse observational data using statistical and computational methods
• Project management: Project management skills to coordinate various aspects of the research, including experimental design, data collection, and analysis. This also involves managing timelines, resources, and team members effectively
• Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills to document research findings, prepare manuscripts, and present results to stakeholders

Additional desirable selection criteria specific to this project:

• Expertise in marine biology and ecology fieldwork: Wading and snorkeling experience preferred 

Application process

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