Wetland forest restoration: integrating ecological theory and restoration practice

Wetland forest restoration: integrating ecological theory and restoration practice University of Melbourne, Department of Forest and Ecosystem Science Project overviewA PhD project is available at the University of Melbourne's School of Ecosystem and Forest Sciences to work with A/Prof Chris Walsh, Dr Jane Catford and Dr Joe Greet. We are seeking a highly motivated candidate interested in developing understanding to overcome constraints to wetland forest restoration. Working with our partners Melbourne Water, Parks Victoria, Zoos Victoria and Greening Australia, the project would aim to quantify the interactive effects of flood regime, propagule availability, and competition for restoring degraded wetland forests. Grounded in ecological theory, and using landscape-scale surveys and an innovative field experiments, the project would aim to: determine the key constraints to restoring wetland forests; test and advance restoration theory; and inform management plans for restoring habitat for the endangered Helmeted Honeyeater and Leadbeater's Possum. The student would also be encouraged to develop innovative lines of enquiry that complement the project aims.The candidate should have a solid work ethic, a deep curiosity about vegetation ecology, proven ability to work independently and in a team and strong communication skills. Preference will be given to candidates with strong analytical and quantitative skills, and field experience conducting vegetation surveys and identifying plant species.EligibilityApplicants must possess a Bachelor's or equivalent degree with first-class Honours or Masters in ecology or related discipline. The candidate would need to successfully apply for a scholarship through the University of Melbourne (APA or MRS), which provides a tax-free annual stipend worth $25,849. With the support of our project partners, we will provide an additional $6000 p.a. top-up scholarship and funds to cover other research costs.To apply, please send a CV, academic transcript, contact details for two academic references, and a brief cover letter outlining your research interests and motivations for applying to greetj@unimelb.edu.au. Informal inquiries are also welcome. Review of applications will begin immediately, and short-listed candidates will be contacted to set up an interview. Ideally, the candidate would start mid-2016.Research groupThe successful applicant will be hosted within the Waterway Ecosystem Research Group (WERG), which currently comprises 9 postdoctoral fellows, 3 research assistants and 4 postgraduate students, and offers a friendly and stimulating research environment. The WERG are based within the lovely surrounds of the Burnley Campus, UoM.View this listing on the PhDSeek.com website at http://www.phdseek.com/phds/1343, « Back to latest PhD listingsLocationUniversity of Melbourne, Department of Forest and http://www.ischolarshipgrants.com/by-degree/phd-scholarships/wetland-forest-restoration-integrating-ecological-theory-and-restoration-practice-20160320/,