Mathematical modelling in erosion management for coastal and marine ecosystems
We are currently looking for a PhD candidate to develop novel mathematical models that will contribute to decision support tools for erosion control. The primary focus of this role is to support on-ground management of erosion through the development of novel mathematical solutions to quantify the potential benefit of interventions on erosion.
This opportunity is part of a broader Australian Research Council Industry Fellowship ‘A new catchment gully erosion model for a healthier Great Barrier Reef' led by Dr Melanie Roberts and in collaboration with the Department of Environment and Science and the Queensland Water Modelling Network.
Success in this role requires collaboration with the Department of Environment and Science, and Natural Resource Management groups.
This project will provide the opportunity to work closely with industry, gaining critical skills in engagement and outreach while honing your skills as an application specialist. Collaboration with Queensland Government and the applied focus of this project provides an avenue for lasting impact and genuine change as a result of your research. Through engagement with the Queensland Water Modelling Network, you will be connected to a state-wide network of PhD candidates, early career researchers, and practioners working at all levels across research, consulting, government and related industries. You will have access to targeted professional development programs through Griffith University, Australian Rivers Institute and the Queensland Water Modelling Network and will collaborate with leading experts in this field.
Scholarship details
The successful applicant will join Dr Melanie Roberts’ team at the Gold Coast campus. Dr Roberts leads a team applying mathematics to solve complex environmental challenges, with a particular focus on improving land management to protect coastal waters. The team seeks to develop novel solutions that solve industry identified challenges.
This project is a collaboration with Queensland Water Modelling Network and the Department of Environment and Science, including industry supervision and co-location with the Department of Environment and Science at the EcoSciences Precinct in Dutton Park 1 day per week.
The successful applicant will be based at the Gold Coast Campus in Southport with the School of Environment and Science and the Australian Rivers Institute.
The Australian Rivers Institute (ARI) is a world leader in research and education on rivers, coasts and catchments. It was formed in 2006 to provide a creative and collaborative environment that fosters the next generation of ecosystem scientists, supports sustainability, and promotes conservation of the world's natural resources. ARI combines outstanding scholarship with contributions to society that address environmental challenges aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals, including water security, biodiversity, pollution and catchment resilience.
ARI undertakes research to national and international standards, supporting interdisciplinary studies and promoting a diverse and inclusive research environment. The Institute attract external funding from competitive, philanthropic and industry sources, and partner with industry, government, and the broader scientific community to extend our research impact.
The Institute has over 180 staff and postgraduate students across the University's Nathan and Gold Coast campuses and hosts the International Water Centre, Coastal Management Research Centre and the Sustainable Water Future Programme. ECRs are valued for their contribution to research excellence and capacity, and the Institute aims to provide dedicated career support and mentoring for early-career researchers.
The selection of applicants for the award of higher degree research scholarships at Griffith University involves consideration of your academic merit and research background. To be successful within this role, you will be able to work independently and in collaboration with partners. You will have evidence of a passion for safeguarding the environment, with a strong desire to undertake research in applied mathematical modelling.
- Expressions of interest are welcome from domestic and international applicants.
- Applicants must have completed, or expect to complete, a bachelors degree with honours equivalent to first class honours or a Masters degree (AQF Level 9) incorporating a significant research component of a standard comparable to a bachelor honours degree or be regarded by Griffith University as having an equivalent level of attainment in accordance with Schedule One of the HDR Scholarship Procedure. For further information on the eligibility requirements for the program refer here.
In addition to the eligibility criteria, the following skills and experience are desired
- Undergraduate (honours) or Masters studies in applied mathematics, environmental science, engineering, computer science or a related degree
- Demonstrated capacity in applied mathematical modelling
- Previous experience with environmental applications, in particular erosion and erosion management
- Prior experience working in, or collaboration with, industry, government or not-for-profits
International applicants should ensure that English Language Proficiency requirements for the program are met before formally applying. Applicants to research programs will need to show they meet:
- A minimum overall band score of 6.5 on the IELTS (Academic) with no band score less than 6.0 OR
- A minimum score of 575 on the paper-based TOEFL including a score of no less than 5.0 on the TWE OR
- A score of 79 on the internet-based (iBT) TOEFL with no sub-score less than 19
The 2023 Griffith University Postgraduate Research Scholarship has an annual stipend of $32,192 (indexed) for a period of up to three years of full-time study. Please see the GUPRS Conditions of Award for more information.
An annual top up scholarship of $7,000 (fixed rate) is also available for the successful candidate. The top up scholarship is available for a period of three years full-time study.
A successful International applicant will also be awarded a Griffith University International Postgraduate Research Scholarship to cover tuition fees for up to three years. Please see the GUIPRS Conditions of Award for more information.
As a scholarship holder, you will study with a University that ranks among the top 2% worldwide and spans across campuses in South East Queensland. At Griffith University, we’ve worked hard to create a culture that will challenge you to be curious, creative and courageous. We also support the professional and personal development of all our HDR candidates and invest in the skills of our people. Griffith University values diversity, inclusion and flexibility and we encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, and people of all backgrounds to apply. Griffith's strategic goals are to also increase the proportion of women in senior academic and administrative roles and in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics and Medicine (STEMM).
For project related enquiries please contact:
Dr Melanie Roberts
Email: m.roberts2@griffith.edu.au
For administration enquiries please contact:
Griffith Graduate Research School
Email: hdr-scholarship@griffith.edu.au
Please do not select the “APPLY” button. All expressions of interest must be submitted to m.roberts2@griffith.edu.au containing:
- Statement addressing your suitability for the project/scholarship
- Research proposal (maximum 1 page)
- Evidence that you have completed a program with the required grades as detailed in the about you section
- A curriculum vitae (CV) using the Griffith CV template.
- Names of two referees
The closing date for expressions of interest is: Currently closed
The preferred applicant will then be invited to apply for the program and scholarship on-line
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