Seagrass Restoration – Development of methods for the recovery of intertidal seagrass meadows

PhD opportunity – Deakin University (Queenscliff Marine Research Station)

Industry partner: Melbourne Water

Start Date: As soon as a suitable candidate is found

Overview: As key ecosystem engineers, seagrasses provide a range of important ecosystem services including nutrient cycling, carbon sequestration, coastal protection, and providing a structurally complex habitat to a variety of vertebrate and invertebrate species.

Given these important roles, there has been increasing concern about the rapid declines seagrass populations are now experiencing globally.

Proposed research project: This project will develop restoration and recovery methodology for intertidal seagrass meadows in Western Port, Australia. The program will use a combination of field- based trials and nursery experiments to develop the appropriate methodologies needed for seagrass habitat restoration in Western Port.

About you: The candidate should have a strong academic background in ecological theory, GIS and experience in field ecology. They will need to demonstrate strong writing and quantitative analysis skills and be highly self-motivated. The project is funded for three years; the successful student will be competitive for, and encouraged to apply for, additional internal and external funding sources.

How to apply: Interested applicants are asked to complete and send the HDR expression of interest form to Dr Craig Sherman (craig.sherman@deakin.edu.au). Successful candidates will then be invited to proceed with a formal application.

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