Conservation and Genetics of Eucalypts in Endangered Woodlands

Project Information

We are seeking a motivated, independent and adventurous PhD candidate to explore the conservation and genetics of the dominant woodland Eucalyptus species of Threatened Ecological Communities in the New England Tablelands Bioregion. This project is based in Dr Rose Andrew’s Molecular Ecology Lab in the School of Environmental and Rural Science.

Eucalypt woodlands are diverse ecological communities that are threatened by fragmentation, drought and invasive species. Conservation of these communities involves management of remnants existing on traveling stock reserves and private lands, which are a foundation for natural regeneration and restoration. The population biology and genetics of woodland remnants are integral to effective conservation strategies to increase the extent and viability of these threatened ecological communities in the face of continuing global environmental change.

This project addresses the conservation genetics and ecology of woodland eucalypt species that are local to the University of New England. You will gain experience in applied conservation and an opportunity to contribute to conservation of our unique woodlands. You can work with researchers and government agency staff to help save endangered / critically endangered woodlands and develop project management and research skills whilst embedded within a team with smart and passionate mentors. You will join a dynamic and diverse group of researchers that encourages collaboration and outreach. We encourage applicants from gender diverse, LGBTQIA+, persons with disabilities, all backgrounds and ethnicity.

Selection of applicants will be based on merit. The successful candidate will:

  • have Honours or MSc or relevant research experience in plant ecology and/or population genetics;
  • be interested in conservation and evolution;
  • be comfortable collecting and/or learning to identify plants;
  • have basic fitness and willingness to work in remote areas;
  • have strong foundational skills and interest in developing knowledge of statistics, scientific writing, and communication;
  • have the capacity to work both independently and as part of a team;
  • be proficient in spoken and written English; and
  • have a current driver’s license.

Scholarship Information

The Research Training Program (RTP) Domestic Scholarship for conducting this research is valued at $35,411 per annum (2024 rate) tax-free and paid in fortnightly installments.

The scholarship is tenable for three years and six months (3.5) full-time for a doctoral degree. The duration of an RTP stipend scholarship cannot be extended.

For more information regarding the Research Training Program (RTP) and the scholarship terms and conditions please visit the following website.

There is also a $10,000 per year top up scholarship funded by the NSW Environmental Trust for three years.

How to Apply

To apply for this scholarship, applicants must complete and submit a candidature and scholarship application. All required supporting documentation as mentioned in the application form including the following:

  • Include in your application a cover letter and a CV detailing the reasons for their interest in the project;
  • Skills and qualifications that will facilitate the project.

For more information on submitting a candidature application please see our web page on how to apply/enrol for candidature.

General Enquiries

Contact: Associate Professor Rose Andrew

Email: rose.andrew@une.edu.au

Scholarship ID: S23-02