The project will focus on the cost of habitat clearing on koalas: testing cost-effective technologies to minimise its impact. This includes where koalas were receiving regular veterinary examinations and welfare checks, to further validate our non-invasive methods. To do this, we will first compare the health picture obtained from invasive and non-invasive data streams. Secondly, we will investigate and quantify the impact of an infrastructure project on the movement and health of koalas.

This position offers the opportunity to analyse a unique and multi-layered dataset on a wild koala population. Specifically, the dataset includes:

• Koala location and habitat data
• Koala spatial movement data from GPS collars
• Koala health data from high-quality samples, veterinary examinations and welfare checks for prior and post Chlamydia treatments and vaccinations
• A large non-invasive dataset for genetics and disease prior, during and post infrastructure development

Genotyping data for koala and Chlamydia, along with molecular tools to detect Chlamydial disease using cost effective technologies (i.e., next generation sequencing)

The ideal candidate will have the ability to work in a diverse team, be supportive and foster a positive work environment, and adhere to our team values including high work ethics, integrity, inclusivity, diversity, equity, accountability, kindness

Eligibility

• Be accepted into a Higher Degrees by Research program at the University of the Sunshine Coast

Selection criteria

• Criterion 1: Academic Achievement
• Criterion 2: Research Capability

Eligible programs

Doctor of Philosophy

Number available

1

Value

1. Tuition offset for 3 years with the possibility of a 6-month extension in approved circumstances. (minimum total value A$66,000)
2. Living stipend of A$33,446.56 (2023 UniSC research rate) per annum tax-free, paid in fortnightly instalments. The rate is indexed annually commensurate with the RTP base stipend rate. 3 years coverage with the possibility of a 6-month extension in approved circumstances.

Application

This will be a two-stage application process:

Stage 1 - Expression of Interest: 

Contact Riana Gardiner, email: rgardine@usc.edu.au 

• Download and complete the UniSC Research Scholarship (UniSCRS) application form.
• Email your Expression of Interest (EOI) to the contact person and attach:
  • UniSCRS application form
  • Cover letter
  • Current CV
• The scholarship panel will review the EOI. If shortlisted, you will be invited for interview.
• The preferred applicant will be invited to formally apply for HDR program and Scholarship.

Stage 2 - Formal application (only if you have been invited to apply)

• Read the important information on How to Apply for a HDR Program at UniSC.
• Submit your UniSCRS application form as a supporting document when submitting your HDR Program application.

Note: Scholarship offer is subject to applicant meeting the eligibility requirements for entry into a higher degree by research program at UniSC.