Improving nitrogen use in horticulture

About the research project

Nitrogen (N) fertilisers are essential for crop productivity but are also a major source of greenhouse gas emissions, environmental pollution, and inefficiencies in agricultural systems. Improving nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) is critical for achieving productive, climate-resilient horticultural systems with lower environmental impacts.

This PhD project will explore how different nutrient management strategies affect crop nitrogen use, physiological responses, and overall productivity in key vegetable crops grown under cool-climate conditions. The research will focus on understanding the plant-soil-nutrient dynamics underpinning NUE in real-world cropping systems, and how these can be optimised to reduce fertiliser inputs, minimise nitrogen losses, and support sustainable yields.

The candidate will conduct detailed field and controlled-environment experiments at the Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture's Vegetable Research Farm (TVRF) in Forth, Tasmania, integrating physiological measurements (e.g., photosynthetic performance, canopy traits, biomass allocation and measures of crop quality) with plant nutrient analysis and agronomic outcomes. Specific attention will be given to traits associated with nitrogen uptake, assimilation, and remobilisation, as well as crop responses to novel fertiliser types or application timings designed to improve synchrony between N supply and plant demand.

This project is complementary to a broader investigation of greenhouse gas emissions and mitigation strategies in Tasmanian horticulture, and part of a coordinated research program under the Zero Net Emissions (ZNE) Horticulture Demonstration Farm Project. The successful candidate will work alongside other researchers and industry collaborators to develop science-based solutions that support the dual goals of productivity and sustainability.

This project is ideal for candidates with an interest in plant physiology, crop nutrition, agronomy, or sustainable agriculture. Experience with plant or soil measurements, nutrient analysis, or data interpretation in a field or lab setting would be beneficial. The candidate will develop valuable interdisciplinary skills and contribute to a nationally significant research program supporting low-emission horticultural production.

Primary supervisor

Meet Doctor Tory Clarke

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.

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 domestic or international candidates
• Applicants need to be from a biological or agricultural sciences discipline
• English language score must meet minimum entry requirements
• Applicants must be able to undertake the project on-campus

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:

• Relevant degree in Agricultural or Biological Science
• Experience working with plants in field, glasshouse and/or laboratory based research
• Strong research and analytical skills
• Excellence in written and oral communication

Application process

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