We seek a highly motivated student to undertake field research in northern Australia and conduct phylogeographic and biogeographic analyses of Adansonia gregorii (Boab) and Vachellia/Acacia farnesiana (Mimosa bush) using molecular evidence. The broader ARC-Discovery Project, titled 'Movements of Baobab and Mimosa bush across the Indian Ocean into pre-British Australia' seeks to solve the riddles of how and when the mimosa bush and the baobab arrived and spread in northern Australia.
The project uses an ambitious trans-disciplinary historical approach that combines archival research, molecular genetic analysis, and oral history. It aims to provide new insights into northern Australia’s place in historic Indian Ocean networks of exchange, create new knowledge about the environmental history of Australia, and help environmental practitioners make informed decisions about biodiversity management. The research project is led by Associate Professors Priya Rangan and Christian Kull of Monash University and Dr Dan Murphy of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Melbourne.
Scholarship Tenure
2 years (part-time study not available). Scholarships are open to both Australia/New Zealand and international applicants.
International students should note that the scholarship does not cover foreign-student tuition fees, and interested applicants are strongly advised to refer to websites below for more information. Candidates will be required to meet Monash entry requirements which may include English language skills.
Each Masters student will be awarded a scholarship stipend of $22,500 per annum plus field research travel expenses.
Student Requirements
Candidates who have achieved Honours 1 or 2A or equivalent, an enthusiastic interest with a background in biological sciences or related disciplines with some knowledge of/experience in molecular biology. Given the interdisciplinary nature of the research project, the candidate must be open to working across disciplinary boundaries. Previous field research experience would be an advantage.
Supervisor/Contact
The scholarship holder will be supervised by the project leaders, with genetic work taking place at the Royal Botanic Gardens under the supervision of Dr. Daniel Murphy and a post-doctoral scholar.
Applications
Should include: 1) an introductory letter stating why the applicant wants to pursue this research topic and details of relevant research experience, 2) a current Curriculum Vitae, 3) copy of academic record, 4) names of two referees and their contact details, and 5) list of any publications.
Enquiries to
Dr. Priya Rangan on +61 3 9905 5300
Haripriya.Rangan@monash.edu
Grant
Faculty / Portfolio:
School of Geography and Environmental Science
Faculty of Arts
Location:
Clayton campus
Scholarship Tenure:
Two years full-time
Scholarship Value:
$22,500 per annum
Masters by Research Scholarship Environmental Science 2010, Australia
