Degree type
PhD
Closing date
1 October 2024
Campus
Hobart
Citizenship requirement
Domestic / International
About the research project
This PhD research is aligned with project 2.1 'Enabling best practice adaptation' of the NESP2 Climate Systems Hub. This project aims to contribute to the improvement of Australia's adaptive capacity and resilience to climate change. Research will focus on identifying effective strategies for building adaptive capacity and resilience at different spatial and temporal scales in Australia and enhancing the uptake and implementation of climate adaptation measures by different sectors, including government, industry, and communities.
The research will involve close collaboration with stakeholders, Indigenous partners (where appropriate), scientists, and knowledge brokers. The research will contribute to improving our understanding of the social and economic enablers of adaptation measures in Australia and/or insights into the most effective approaches to undertaking adaptation at specific scales. This might include consideration of different approaches. For example, mainstreaming climate adaptation considerations into policy and planning frameworks, risk assessment style management frameworks and pathways approaches. The project aims to advance our understanding of how to effectively manage the impacts of climate change in Australia and build a more resilient and adaptive society.
During this PhD research project you could be:
Assessing the effectiveness of climate adaptation approaches. The project might focus on the risk assessment approach and determine its effectiveness or suitability in different sectors and or regions. For example, does the risk assessment approach which has come for business, translate to the conservation setting. The research could involve a combination of literature and document analysis, participatory approaches, case studies, and qualitative evaluation. The research could also explore the potential of alternative or innovative adaptation measures, such as nature-based solutions, to enhance resilience and reduce vulnerability. The results of the research would provide valuable insights into the most effective approaches for planning and implementing climate change adaptation and management, informing policy and decision-making at different levels of government.
Possible PhD research questions could include:
- What are the most effective strategies for improving adaptive outcomes at different spatial and temporal scales in Australia?
- How can we enhance the uptake and implementation of climate adaptation measures by different sectors, including government, industry, and communities?
- What are the most important enablers to achieve effective cross-sectoral collaboration in climate adaptation planning and implementation?
- Is mainstreaming climate adaptation considerations into policy and planning frameworks a critical enabler of adaptation success across different levels of government?
- How can we improve our understanding of the social and economic impacts of climate change and associated adaptation measures in Australia?
- How can we improve the integration of climate adaptation considerations into natural resource management and conservation practices in Australia?
- What are the most effective approaches for managing trade-offs and conflicts between climate adaptation and other development objectives in Australia?
Depending on your specific interests and expertise, there may be other related research questions that could be pursued as well. Please contact the primary supervisor/s to discuss.
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Primary Supervisor
Funding
Applicants will be considered for a Research Training Program (RTP) scholarship or Tasmania Graduate Research Scholarship (TGRS) which, if successful, provides:
- a living allowance stipend of $32,192 per annum (2024 rate, indexed annually) for 3.5 years
- a relocation allowance of up to $2,000
- a tuition fees offset covering the cost of tuition fees for up to four years (domestic applicants only)
If successful, international applicants will receive a University of Tasmania Fees Offset for up to four years.
As part of the application process you may indicate if you do not wish to be considered for scholarship funding.
Other funding opportunities and fees
For further information regarding other scholarships on offer, and the various fees of undertaking a research degree, please visit Scholarships and fees.
Eligibility
Applicants should review the Higher Degree by Research minimum entry requirements.
Ensure your eligibility for the scholarship round by referring to our Key Dates.
Additional eligibility criteria specific to this project/scholarship:
- Applicants must be able to undertake the project on-campus
Selection Criteria
The project is competitively assessed and awarded. Selection is based on academic merit and suitability to the project as determined by the College.
Additional essential selection criteria specific to this project:
- Ability to design and implement research projects, collect, and analyse data, and write up research findings in a clear and concise manner.
- Ability to work across different disciplines and collaborate effectively with stakeholders from a range of backgrounds, including scientists, policymakers, and community members.
- Ability to engage with stakeholders, including community members and policymakers, and translate complex scientific concepts into accessible and actionable information.
- Problem-solving and critical thinking skills to identify research gaps and develop innovative solutions to address complex climate adaptation challenges.
- Flexible and adaptable to changing research conditions and ability to manage their time effectively to complete the project on time.
Additional desirable selection criteria specific to this project:
- Familiarity with concepts and principles of climate change adaptation.
Application process
- Select your project, and check that you meet the eligibility and selection criteria, including citizenship;
- Contact Dr Kathleen Beyer to discuss your suitability and the project's requirements; and
- In your application:
- Copy and paste the title of the project from this advertisement into your application. If you don’t correctly do this your application may be rejected.
- Submit a signed supervisory support form, a CV including contact details of 2 referees and your project research proposal.
- Apply prior to 1 October 2024.
Full details of the application process can be found under the 'How to apply' section at Research degrees.
Following the closing date applications will be assessed within the College. Applicants should expect to receive notification of the outcome by email by the advertised outcome date.
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