[Aqualist] PhD scholarship in fluvial geomorphology

[Barrows, Timothy]

PhD scholarship in fluvial geomorphology, seed ecology and riparian vegetation management
Location: Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
Every year in Australia millions of dollars are invested in riparian revegetation. The success, and cost effectiveness of these revegetation strategies can be enhanced by combining geomorphic and ecological knowledge to maximise the success of native seedling establishment from the soil seed bank. As the conservation of biodiversity becomes integral to environmental management it is important to understand seed bank dynamics and better utilise these seed resources in river rehabilitation projects.
A Macquarie University Research Excellence Scholarship (MQRES) is available for study towards a Doctor of Philosophy through a recently awarded ARC Linkage Grant. The project partners, the Hunter-Central Rivers Catchment Management Authority and the NSW Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water are providing significant in-kind support to the candidate.
The PhD candidate has an opportunity to develop the project in the context of links between sediment and seed transport and storage in riparian corridors. In collaboration with industry partners, new field techniques will be designed for promoting germination and establishment of native seeds in the riparian zone.
The PhD candidate will have a first class Honours or Masters degree (or equivalent) in fluvial geomorphology, hydrology, plant ecology, aquatic ecology or botany. Candidates who have skills in interdisciplinary fields or research publications will be considered favourably. The candidate will also have field experience in fluvial environments and computer-based modeling skills.
The 2010 MQRES full-time stipend rate is $22,500 pa tax exempt for 3.5 years. Macquarie University will advise the successful applicant of entitlements at the time of scholarship offer.
For closing date on applications please contact Dr Kirstie Fryirs or Dr Michelle Leishman by email.
Applicants will need to complete a candidature/scholarship application form and arrange for two academic referee reports to be submitted to the Higher Degree Research Office. Forms can be downloaded from http://www.hdr.mq.edu.au/information_about/forms. You must supply all supporting documentation including an example of your written work, e.g. the literature review (or equivalent) of an Honours or Masters dissertation.
Enquiries about the research project/proposal should be made to Dr Kirstie Fryirs, kirstie.fryirs at mq.edu.au<mailto:kirstie.fryirs at mq.edu.au> telephone +61 (2) 9850 8367 or Dr Michelle Leishman michelle.leishman at mq.edu.au<mailto:michelle.leishman at mq.edu.au> telephone +61 (2) 9850 9180.
Please quote the allocation reference number 2010221 on your application form.

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Dr Kirstie Fryirs
Senior Lecturer
Department of Environment and Geography
Discipline of Environmental Science
Macquarie University
North Ryde, NSW, 2109
Australia
email: kirstie.fryirs at mq.edu.au<mailto:kirstie.fryirs at mq.edu.au>
http://www.envsci.mq.edu.au/staff/kf/index.html
http://www.riverstyles.com