We are looking for a PhD candidate to investigate the effects of large herbivores (invasive deer, macropods) on above and belowground ecosystems, including soil properties and microbial communities. 

Large herbivores can be important drivers of the structure and function of ecosystems, and so changes in their populations, through control programs, changes in predator populations, or other disturbances, have the potential to cause widespread changes in ecosystem dynamics. This project will use established large herbivore exclosures to investigate the effects of large herbivore removal on plant communities, soil properties and microbial communities. The study will also investigate how environmental factors, such as rainfall and fire history modify the effects of herbivore removal. 

The project will include a combination of field data collection and laboratory work (including genetic analysis of soil microbes), with possibility for glasshouse experiments, depending on the interests of the student. Field work will be primarily based in Tasmania. 

The successful applicant will be supported to apply for a Research Training Program (RTP) Scholarship at the Australian National University. An additional top-up stipend ($8000 per year) will be available for the first 2.5 years of study, subject to securing an RTP Scholarship. Operational funding is available for fieldwork and laboratory expenses.

Applicants are strongly encouraged to contact Claire Foster to discuss the project. The PhD scholar will be supervised by Dr. Claire Foster and Dr Elle Bowd (ANU), and Dr Elizabeth Wandrag (UTAS) and Prof. Jane Catford (ANU).

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.

This opportunity is currently only available to domestic students (Australian citizens, Australian permanent residents, New Zealand citizens).The selected student must obtain and maintain a PhD scholarship stipend at The Australian National University (current rate: AU$39 069 p.a. tax free for 3.5 years; see below). The candidate would be expected to commence their doctoral program by the end of August 2026.

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 includes some of the Australia’s leading ecologists and conservation scientists, and has a large, dynamic community of PhD students. Students 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. Past PhD graduates have a strong record of employment in academic, government and NGO sectors.

Closing dates

The closing date for applications for a PhD stipend scholarship at The Australian National University is the 15^th April 2026 (round 2). See https://study.anu.edu.au/scholarships/find-scholarship/australian-government-research-training-program-rtp-stipend

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

Application process

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 27^th March 2026.

Please email any queries relating to this opportunity to Claire.foster@anu.edu.au 

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