PhD Project - Linking plant-pollinator network structure to plant reproductive function in Australia

This project is open to application from both domestic and international applicants.

Applicants must meet the eligibility criteria for entrance into a PhD at the ANU. A bachelor's degree with first-class honours or a research master's degree from a recognised university is a prerequisite.

All applicants with an interest in pollination ecology are encouraged to apply. Although not essential it is beneficial that the applicant has some of the following desirable attributes:

• Skills and experience in statistical analysis using R software.
• Experience in scientific writing.
• An interest in conducting extensive fieldwork in remote locations.
• Experience in identifying taxa in the field or laboratory with experience in plant and insect identification viewed partially favourably.
• Experience conducting field and or laboratory experiments.
• Experience conducting molecular work would be beneficial.

Tasks include:

• Fieldwork to collect data on plant-pollinator interactions and conduct pollinator dependency and pollen limitation experiments.
• Laboratory based work for the identification and curation of pollen, plant, and insect specimens using a range of methods including microscopes, identification keys and molecular techniques e.g., metabarcoding.
• Data analysis and statistical evaluation using R software.
• Writing a thesis in accordance with own skills and interests.
• Publishing scientific journal articles.

We offer 1 fully funded PhD stipend of AUD $28,597/year, tax free, for 3 years funded by a Discovery Award (DECRA) and the FSES. Additional top-ups may be available.