Australia has the highest rate of mammal extinction of any continent on the planet. This has reduced biodiversity, and compromised many important ecological processes. What is the best way to re-build depauperate mammal communities with multi-species reintroductions? What effects do multi-species reintroductions have on recipient ecosystems?
This PhD will be part of the Australian Research Council-funded Bringing Back Biodiversity project, which is experimentally restoring three Australian small mammals to Mulligans Flat Woodland Sanctaury: (1) the Eastern Chestnut Mouse (Pseudomys gracilicaudatus), (2) the Yellow-footed Antechinus (Antechinus flavipes) and (3) augmenting a population of reintroduced New Holland Mouse (Pseudomys novaehollandiae). This is part of a highly successful project that has already reintroduced a number of species into this Sanctuary, such as the Eastern Bettong (Bettongia gaimardi) and Eastern Quoll (Dasyurus viverrinus).
The aim of this project will be to investigate the reintroduction biology of these three native small mammals to inform future reintroductions. Key to this will be understanding the ecological and behavioural shifts following translocation to a novel environment. We are seeking applications from a highly qualified and motivated candidate. This is a major collaborative research project between the ACT Government, Australian National University and the James Cook University, and is part of the long-term Mulligans Flat - Goorooyarroo Woodland Experiment.
SUMMARY
VALUE
$8000 per annum top-up for 3 years
1 on offer
Payments made fortnightly
Payments made for 3 years
Student types
Domestic, ProspectiveStudent levels
Postgraduate researchNumber of scholarships awarded
1 on offerSelection bases
Academic meritOngoing eligibility
Continuation based on maintaining base stipend scholarshipsThe successful candidate will have a background and interests in genetics, conservation biology, zoology, ecology or similar. Specialist skills relevant to the subject of the PhD project, including experience in genetics and/or population modelling, will be a distinct advantage.
First class Honours (or equivalent academic qualifications) is a prerequisite for appointment. The successful candidate must secure an Australian Government Research Training Program PhD stipend scholarship ($27,082 AUD tax free (2017 rate for 3 years). Upon confirmation of the scholarship, an $8,000 per annum top-up scholarship (for 3 years) will be awarded. Operating funds are also available as part of the broader project.
The successful candidate must secure an Australian Government Research Training Program PhD stipend scholarship ($27,082 AUD tax free (2017 rate for 3 years). Upon confirmation of the scholarship, an $8,000 per annum top-up scholarship (for 3 years) will be awarded. Operating funds are also available as part of the broader project.
Interested individuals are invited to submit an expression of interest stating their interests and ideas in this area of research, transcript (s) and their CV to either Associate Professor Sam BanksorProfessor Adrian Manning. Applicants should be citizens of New Zealand or Australia (or Australian permanent residents). An expert supervisory panel that matches the skills of the successful applicant will be appointed.
Applications for this Scholarship are now open and will close when the position has been filled
Mulligans Flat -Goorooyarroo Woodland Experiment Information Website