Geotechnical tools for urban landslides

About the research project

Determining reliable stratigraphies and soil properties play a fundamental role in characterising geotechnical sites. A cost-effective, unified approach is needed to perform these two tasks simultaneously to reduce overall uncertainty in site characterisation.  

In Tasmania, slope failure and landslides pose ongoing risks to infrastructure, as evidenced by recent slope hazards in urban settings such as Legana and Beauty Point. The project explores the use of combined geotechnical insitu tests (Cone Penetration Testing) and non-destructive geophysical tests (Multichannel Analysis of Surface Waves) to mitigate urban landslide risk. These two methods will be used to quantify spatially variable soil properties in slopes susceptible to failure. CPT offers high-resolution point-based measurements, while MASW provides broader spatial coverage indicative of soil stiffness and stratigraphy.  

By integrating these two complementary techniques, the project aims to generate a detailed understanding of subsurface variability both vertically and laterally across slope profiles. The quantified geotechnical spatial variability will be incorporated into numerical slope stability models, such as the Random Finite Element Method, to examine how soil variability influences slope failure mechanisms and deformation patterns.

This PhD project is part of a major research initiative funded by the National Emergency Management Agency through the Disaster Ready Fund in collaboration, in collaboration with Mineral Resources Tasmania.

Alternate location

Some site investigation work may be required (Southern and Northern Tasmania) over short periods of time (approximately 1 - 2 days at a time).

Primary supervisor

Meet Doctor Ashley Dyson

Funding

The successful applicant will receive a scholarship which 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

If successful, applicants will also receive a Disaster Ready Fund Grant top-up scholarship of $5,000 per annum for 3.5 years. This scholarship is funded from Disaster Ready Fund Grant.

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/ International/ Onshore applicants from a geotechnical background only

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:

• A strong understanding of insitu geotechnical data, physical data and soil constitutive behaviour
• Strong academic background in geotechnical engineering and capability to work independently
• A solid knowledge of numerical modelling methods for slope stability analysis

Additional desirable selection criteria specific to this project:

• Knowledge of statistical processes for geotechnical risk

Application process

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