Are you fascinated by how ecosystems function and respond to change? We are looking for a PhD candidate to commence in 2025 to investigate the ecological processes shaping Australia's widespread Mulga woodlands. These ecosystems are increasingly important for carbon farming and drawing down atmospheric CO2. Working with Assoc. Prof. Daniel Falster (UNSW) and industry partner Climate Friendly, you'll contribute to a 5-year Australian Research Council Linkage Project, advancing ecological forecasting and informing sustainable land management.

This PhD project will investigate the climate- and trait-driven dynamics of mulga (Acacia aneura), exploring how plant functional traits mediate tree growth, survival, and competitive interactions in response to environmental factors. The research will be conducted using permanent growth plots in western NSW and a rich dataset, integrating historical growth from dendrochronology, contemporary forest structure data, and real-time growth measurements alongside plant trait data. Working closely with other team members, you will help execute fieldwork in remote locations and develop quantitative skills in data analysis and modelling ecosystem dynamics.

We are seeking a highly motivated and quantitatively skilled candidate with a strong foundation in plant ecology, functional ecology, plant physiology, or a related discipline. Essential skills include a demonstrated aptitude for fieldwork in challenging environments and strong data analysis skills, including proficiency in R or similar statistical software. Experience with mechanistic ecological modelling is desirable but not essential. Candidates need to obtain a post-graduate research scholarship at UNSW (unsw.edu.au/research/hdr/application. standard amount is $38,438 p.a. tax free) and will also receive an annual top-up scholarship of $5,000 for the first 3 years.

Ideally, a suitable candidate would be identified by April 29, in time to apply for a UNSW PhD scholarship by Friday 9 May, to start their PhD in August/September 2025. Later start times will also be considered.