PhD project: Post-fire recovery of fauna in Namadgi National Park
Post-fire recovery of fauna in Namadgi National Park
We have an exciting PhD opportunity to participate in post-fire recovery of fauna at The Australian National University in collaboration with the Conservation Research Unit in the ACT Government.
The successful candidate will test whether artificial habitat refuges can aid the recovery of small mammals and reptiles in the presence of introduced predators and herbivores within fire-affected areas of Namadgi National Park.
The successful candidate will lead the design and deployment of artificial habitat refuges and will monitor their effectiveness for small mammals and reptiles using a range of survey techniques. A scholarship top-up, fieldwork accommodation in Namadgi National Park, use of a 4WD vehicle for fieldwork, labour to assist deployment of the refuges and necessary equipment such as camera traps will be provided.
Candidate requirements
A bachelor’s degree in environmental science, ecology or zoology with first-class honours or a research master’s degree from a recognised university is a prerequisite. A high grade point average, peer-reviewed publications and relevant experience are an advantage.
The successful candidate must obtain and maintain a domestic PhD scholarship stipend at The Australian National University (2020 rate: AU$28,092 per annum tax free). The successful applicant will also receive a stipend top-up of $7,000 per annum for 3 years plus a $7200 allowance over the life of the program for attending conferences, etc. Applicants must be an Australian or New Zealand citizen or an Australian permanent resident. Candidates are expected to commence in early 2021 and must be based in Canberra.
Application process and closing dates
Interested domestic candidates are invited to discuss the project with Professor Philip Gibbons (02 6125 2562) and must submit a CV, academic transcript plus a one page statement indicating what they understand to be the key research question for this project and an approach that would answer this research question by 16 October 2020 to philip.gibbons@anu.edu.au.
The successful applicant will be invited to apply for a PhD stipend scholarship at The Australian National University. The closing date for applications is 31 October 2020. See http://www.anu.edu.au/students/scholarships/australian-government-research-training-program-agrtp-stipend-scholarship. Queries regarding scholarship matters can be directed to Kate Liesinger at hdr.coordinator.fses@anu.edu.au.
Research at the Australian National University
In the latest World University Rankings, The Australian National University was the top-ranked institution in Australia for environmental research. The Fenner School of Environment & Society has a large, dynamic community of PhD students who are provided with high quality office facilities, computer and statistical support, and access to field equipment, laboratory facilities and a fleet of 4WD vehicles. Students are encouraged to collaborate widely and attend national and international conferences.