*Hawkesbury Institute for the Environment* University of Western Sydney Locked Bag 1797 Penrith NSW 2751 Australia www.uws.edu.au/hawkesburyinstitute
Two PhD scholarships are available for active, dynamic individuals with expertise and interests in soil microbiology, carbon and greenhouse gas analyses, molecular microbial ecology and biodiversity-ecosystem function relations. SCHOLARSHIP 1 – MICROBIAL MODULATORS OF SOIL CARBON STORAGE This project focuses on the impact of microbial communities on soil aggregate size and their role in soil carbon storage. Supervisors: A/Prof Brajesh Singh and Prof Ian Anderson. SCHOLARSHIP 2 – ECOLOGICAL THEORY TO EXPLAIN MICROBIAL REGULATION OF SOIL FUNCTION This project will address the question of whether ecological theory developed for plants and animals explains microbial regulation of soil function. Supervisors: A/Prof Brajesh Singh and Prof Peter Reich. Each project will use a combination of cutting edge theoretical framework, functional assays and state-of-the-art molecular and metagenomic approaches. Candidates will be provided with extensive training in appropriate methodologies, in addition to statistics, scientific writing and presentation skills. CRITERIA The successful applicant should: » demonstrate excellent academic performance in a field related to the proposed research » hold qualifications and/or experience equivalent to an Australian First Class Bachelor Honours degree » be highly motivated to undertake further study at an advanced level » demonstrate the ability to organise and work independently International applicants must also demonstrate a high level of proficiency in the English language. Please refer to the University’s web site for information about the English language Requirements: ( http://www.uws.edu.au/international/admissions/english_language_requirement) WHAT DOES THE SCHOLARSHIP PROVIDE? » Tax free stipend of $34,653 per annum and a funded place in the doctoral degree. International candidates with a strong track record may be offered a tuition fee waiver. » Funding is also available for project costs and conference travel. NEED MORE INFORMATION? » Applicants should discuss their research aspirations and eligibility with Associate Professor Brajesh Singh before applying: [email protected], phone +61 2 4570 1329 » Contact the Office of Research Services to discuss enrollment and scholarships: [email protected] phone +61 2 4736 0966 » Browse the web for more information about the Hawkesbury Institute for the Environment: http://www.uws.edu.au/hie HOW TO APPLY » Submit an application form, CV and one page research proposal that fits with the broad aims of the project as outlined above by the closing date. The application form can be downloaded from the web: http://www.uws.edu.au/research/scholarships APPLICATIONS CLOSE: 30 May 2013 HAWKESBURY INSTITUTE FOR THE ENVIRONMENT PVR2774 23/4/12 Postgraduate Research Awards
