Download Download PDF Flier PDF, 256.92 KB

DETERMINING THE ACCLIMATION CAPACITY OF AUSTRALIAN RAINFOREST TREES
GROWING IN WARM AND COOL CLIMATES
The Hawkesbury Institute for the Environment (HIE) at Western
Sydney University is a research leader in ecosystem function
and environmental responses to climate change with unique
world-class research facilities and over 50 scientists.
We are seeking a highly motivated PhD candidate for a project
in the field of plant ecophysiology and climate change. The PhD
candidate is expected to commence around October 2016.
The PhD candidate’s work will form a complementary research
stream to an exciting new ARC-supported project: “How will
Australian rainforest trees cope with climate warming?.” This
project aims to compare and contrast the temperature
acclimation capacity of photosynthesis and respiration in
rainforest trees growing in cool and warm climates.
The study will include research at field sites and laboratory
studies in controlled-environment glasshouses in testing
whether species in warmer climates have a reduced capacity to
physiologically adjust compared to species in cool climates. As
plant metabolic responses to warming currently represent one of
the largest uncertainties in Earth System models, understanding
acclimation capacity is crucial to assess tree responses to future
climate warming and predict future species distribution ranges.
Applicants should be enthusiastic and highly motivated to
undertake further study at an advanced level. A good
background in plant physiology and plant ecology and interest in
climate change research are required. A valid driver’s license,
ability to travel and work in field sites is required.
The student will be based at HIE at Western Sydney University
on the Hawkesbury Campus in Richmond, NSW and will join a
large and diverse cohort of scientists at all career levels. The
student will learn a variety of eco-physiological measuring
techniques to assess plant metabolism and growth as well as
developing useful analytical skills.
The student will be advised by Dr. Kristine Crous and work in
collaboration with other colleagues at WSU.
WHAT DOES THE SCHOLARSHIP PROVIDE?
» Domestic students will receive a tax free stipend of $30,406
per annum and a funded place in the doctoral degree.
» International students will receive a tax free stipend of
$30,406 per annum. Those with a strong track record may
receive a fee waiver.
» Funding is available for project costs and conference travel.
CRITERIA
The successful applicant should:
» demonstrate excellent academic performance in one or more
of the following areas: plant physiology or plant ecology
» hold qualifications and experience equal to an Australian
First Class Bachelor Honours degree or equivalent overseas
qualifications and be enthusiastic and highly motivated to
undertake further study at an advanced level
» have an interest and degree of familiarity with climate change
impacts on ecosystem processes, applications of stable
isotopes to their study and modelling approaches
» International applicants must demonstrate a high level of
proficiency in the English language. Please refer to the English
language requirements at www.westernsydney.edu.au/
international/home/admissions/entry_requirements
HOW TO APPLY
» Applicants should discuss their eligibility and interests with Dr
Kristine Crous +61 (02) 4570 1125 or via email at
[email protected]
» Contact the Graduate Research School at
[email protected].
» Please submit an application form, CV, names and contact
information of two referees, and a one-page document stating
how your research interests and background align with the
project’s aims.
Closing date 3 June 2016.
» The application form can be downloaded from the web:
www.westernsydney.edu.au/
graduate_research_school/grs/scholarships/
current_scholarships