PhD Scholarships

Macquarie University

Two PhD Scholarships in Forest Modelling

Two full-time PhD scholarships are available in the Forests and Climate Change Group, Department of Biological Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia.

(1) Elevated CO2 Impacts on Vegetation: from Experiments to Models (ref 2010092)

This project aims to bridge the gap between experiments and models of the impacts of rising atmospheric CO2 concentration on vegetation. Working with data from leading experiments on CO2 enrichment worldwide, the student will learn and apply cutting-edge data synthesis techniques to help develop a new generation of evidence-based ecosystem models that incorporate the best experimental understanding of CO2 effects on vegetation.

(2) Forest Ecosystem Water Use: Does Species Diversity Matter? (ref LP0992238)

This project will investigate how biodiversity of forest ecosystems affects their water use and susceptibility to drought. Using data from experimental forest regeneration plantings in western Sydney, this PhD student will develop mathematical models linking plant species traits to forest stand water use and productivity.

These projects would suit either a graduate in biology or ecology with strong quantitative skills, or a graduate in mathematics, statistics, computing, or physics with an interest in plant ecology. Applicants should have a strong academic record with Honours (First Class) or equivalent.

Further information on these scholarships is available at
http://www.hdr.mq.edu.au/information_about/scholarships

Prospective applicants should contact the PI, Dr Belinda Medlyn, with details of relevant experience, a CV and an academic transcript. Email: bmedlyn(at)bio.mq.edu.au, telephone: +61 (0)2 9850 8897. Note the closing date for applications: 28/2/10.