Degree type
PhD
Closing date
1 February 2025
Campus
Hobart
Citizenship requirement
Domestic / International
About the research project
This PhD project explores the impact of agro-ecological programming in Tasmanian farming systems, focussing on three key agrisystem resilience goals: improving on-farm biodiversity, enhancing personal and community well-being for farming families, and fostering sustained farmer engagement with Landcare and/or similar programs. Through a mixed-methods approach, the research aims to generate actionable insights that support ecological health, farmer satisfaction and community resilience.
The project may consist of longitudinal fieldwork involving in-depth interviews with farmers and ecological data collection on program-participating and control farms. Outcomes will inform strategies to strengthen agricultural sustainability and improve the alignment of programming with farmer needs and ecological goals.
The following possible research questions could be considered:
- What motivates farmers to engage with agro-ecological programs, and how can initiatives better meet their needs and values?
- How does participation in agro-ecological programs impact farmers' fulfillment and resilience to climate and economic pressures?
- Does agro-ecological programming enhance on-farm biodiversity and ecosystem function and how does it contribute to climate resilience?
Explore more Climate Change projects
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 $33,511 per annum (2025 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:
- Background in in ecology, agricultural science, environmental science, rural sociology or a related discipline
- Demonstrated experience in conducting fieldwork, especially in rural or agricultural settings
- Skills in qualitative research methods, including interviews or ethnographic approaches
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in rural communities
- Well-developed written and oral communication skills
Additional desirable selection criteria specific to this project:
- Previous experience with biodiversity or ecological data collection and analysis
- Knowledge of or familiarity with Tasmanian agricultural systems or similar contexts
- Experience working directly with farmers or agricultural stakeholders
- Statistical analysis skills and familiarity with ecological or sociological software/tools
- A genuine interest in agricultural sustainability, community resilience and biodiversity conservation
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 February 2025.
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.
Apply now Explore other projects
Why the University of Tasmania?
Worldwide reputation for research excellence
Quality supervision and support
