Degree type
PhD
Closing date
1 October 2024
Campus
Hobart
Citizenship requirement
Domestic / International
About the research project
Are you passionate about landscape ecology and cutting-edge remote sensing technology? Join our dynamic research team in a PhD project that will push the boundaries of ecological conservation in Tasmania. This project focuses on the detection and mapping of Tasmania's ancient and unique conifer species—Huon Pine, King Billy Pine, and Pencil Pine—using advanced remote sensing techniques.
These palaeoendemic trees are not only ecological treasures, dating back millions of years, but they also play a vital role in the biodiversity and heritage of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area. However, their slow growth and vulnerability to fire make them difficult to protect, particularly as traditional mapping methods lack precision. Your research will address this gap by developing and applying deep learning algorithms to ultrahigh-resolution RGB, multispectral, hyperspectral, and LiDAR data. These innovative techniques will enable the accurate identification and monitoring of these iconic species across Tasmania's rugged landscapes.
This project is a collaboration between the University of Tasmania and the Department of Natural Resources and Environment Tasmania (NRE Tas), ensuring that your work will have real-world impact on conservation efforts. You'll have access to state-of-the-art airborne remote sensing data and support from ecological experts within both the university and NRE Tas.
If you are driven by a desire to contribute to the conservation of ancient ecosystems through technology and have a background in landscape ecology, remote sensing, or machine learning, we encourage you to apply. This project offers a unique opportunity to blend your passion for the environment with exciting technological advancements, making a tangible difference in the preservation of Tasmania's natural heritage.
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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.
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:
- Academic qualifications: A strong background in a relevant field, such as remote sensing, landscape ecology, geography, environmental science, or geospatial analytics, with a completed Honours or Master's degree that includes a research thesis and/or scientific publication, demonstrating aptitude for research
- Technical skills: Proficiency in remote sensing technologies, including experience with ultrahigh-resolution RGB, multispectral, hyperspectral, and/or LiDAR data acquisition and analysis
- Fieldwork experience: Proven experience in conducting ecological or environmental fieldwork, including data collection and field data management
- Programming and data analysis: Experience in programming (e.g., Python, R) and applying deep learning or machine learning techniques to spatial or environmental datasets
- Communication and collaboration: Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary research team and engage with external stakeholders
Additional desirable selection criteria specific to this project:
- Experience in ecological conservation: Prior experience in conservation projects, particularly related to vegetation or landscape management
- Advanced geospatial skills: Familiarity with GIS software (e.g., QGIS, ArcGIS) and advanced geospatial analytics techniques
- Familiarity with Tasmanian ecosystems: Knowledge of Tasmania's unique landscapes and vegetation communities, especially ancient and endemic tree species
- Project management experience: Skills in managing research projects, including fieldwork coordination and stakeholder engagement
Application process
- Select your project, and check that you meet the eligibility and selection criteria, including citizenship;
- Contact Prof Arko Lucieer 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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