Photo by Andrew Haysom.

Intensive fox baiting has been in place in Booderee National Park for over 20 years. While most small and medium sized mammal species initially benefitted from control of introduced foxes, some small mammal species declined again soon after, and have remained at low densities despite ongoing predator control. One potential explanation for this secondary decline is that elevated populations of larger bodied herbivores, such as the Swamp Wallaby and Brushtail Possum are suppressing populations of smaller mammals via direct competition and/or alterations to vegetation structure and habitat quality.    

The PhD project would investigate interactions between swamp wallabies and smaller mammals, using existing wallaby exlosure sites to explore potential pathways for interactions, including changes to habitat structure, food availability, interference competition and others.

Applicants are strongly encouraged to contact Claire Foster to discuss the project. The PhD scholar will be supervised by Prof. David Lindenmayer, Dr. Claire Foster and Dr. Nicholas Dexter (Parks Australia).

The Fenner School includes some of the Australia’s leading ecologists and conservation scientists. The student will be based within Professor Lindenmayer’s Research Group. Research within the group addresses a diverse range of topics, with a particular focus addressing applied land management and conservation questions. Past PhD graduates have a strong record of employment in academic, government and NGO sectors.

The successful applicant will be supported to apply for a Research Training Scheme Scholarship at the Australian National University. An additional top-up stipend may be available for the right candidate. Operational funding will be available for fieldwork expenses.

Candidate requirements

Bachelors degree with first-class honours, or a research Masters degree from a recognised university. Selection is based on academic merit and the candidate’s research proposal. Successful candidates will have a background in ecology, environmental science or similar.

Domestic students (Australian citizens, Australian permanent residents, New Zealand citizens) must obtain and maintain a PhD scholarship stipend at The Australian National University (current rate: AU$36,652 p.a. tax free; see below). This opportunity is not currently available for international students. The candidate would be expected to commence their doctoral program in early 2025.

Research at The Australian National University

In the latest World University Rankings, The Australian National University was the top institution in Australia for environmental research. The Fenner School of Environment and 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.

Application process and closing dates

Interested individuals are invited to discuss the project with Dr Claire Foster prior to application. Applicants should submit a CV, copy of academic transcripts, and a one-page statement of possible research directions to Claire by 18 October 2024.

Please email Claire.foster@anu.edu.au

The preferred applicant will then be supported to apply for a PhD stipend at The Australian National University (closing date 31 October 2024). For scholarship details visit here.

Queries regarding scholarship matters can be directed to Katie Liesinger hdr.coordinator.fses@anu.edu.au