Feral cats in the Australian Anthropocene
We are currently looking for a PhD candidate to join our research team in the examination of feral cat distribution in Australia using ancient DNA (aDNA) techniques. The primary focus of this role is to investigate the impact of feral cats on the Australian ecosystem during the Anthropocene, the current geological age characterised by significant human impact on the planet. This project includes analysing aDNA from cat remains obtained from various archaeological and palaeontological sites across Australia to reconstruct the historical distribution and genetic diversity of feral cats. Success in this role requires collaboration with interdisciplinary experts in archaeology, genetics, and palaeoecology, as well as with Indigenous communities to ensure the ethical and respectful use of cultural heritage materials.
This project will be undertaken through the Australian Research Centre for Human Evolution (ARCHE), with cross supervision from the Griffith Centre for Social and Cultural Research (GCSCR) and the Department of Archaeology, Max Planck Institute of Geoanthropology, Germany. ARCHE is a world leader in research and education on all aspects of human evolutionary studies. We provide a dynamic and cooperative research environment that seeks to understand how humans and their societies across the globe evolved over time. We emphasise the study of the biological and cultural evolution of humans and our place in the natural world, with a growing focus on Indigenous peoples of Australia, Asia, and the Pacific. A/Prof Julien Louys and Dr Mark de Bruyn are based in ARCHE and together have a wealth of experience in studying past environmental change, human-faunal interactions through time, and the use of genetic and phylogenetic data to examine evolutionary questions. Dr Tim Maloney is based in GCSCR and an affiliate member of ARCHE and has been working on the archaeology of Australia for nearly 10 years and has a keen interest in the management of feral cat species. Professor Nicole Boivin’s research explores how archaeological data can inform present-day issues ranging from climate change and the Anthropocene to globalization, food security and migration.
This position will be located at the Griffith University Nathan Campus.
Scholarship details
At ARCHE, our goal is to cultivate an innovative and cooperative atmosphere that nurtures the upcoming cohort of human evolutionary scientists. We provide a diverse selection of research and educational prospects for students of every level, including undergraduates, honours, masters, and PhD students. Our exceptional supervisors and researchers, who possess the expertise to connect students with national and international research networks, field locations, and professional organizations, work alongside our students to offer a world-class learning experience. Our advanced facilities offer cutting-edge resources to facilitate research and learning on every facet of human evolution.
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 research project on aDNA and the impact of feral cats in Australia, you will be able to demonstrate a strong foundation in genetics and molecular biology, as well as familiarity with conservation biology, archaeology/palaeontology, and wildlife management. You will have evidence of a passion for biodiversity conservation and a desire to address the negative impact of feral cats on Australian wildlife. You will ideally have experience in fieldwork, data collection, and analysis, as well as the ability to work independently and collaboratively with stakeholders from diverse backgrounds. with a strong desire to undertake research in making a positive impact on the environment.
- 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 Policy. For further information on the eligibility requirements for the program refer here.
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.
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:
A/Professor Julien Louys
Email: j.louys@griffith.edu.au
or
Dr Mark de Bruyn
Email: m.debruyn@griffith.edu.au
For administration enquiries please contact:
Griffith Graduate Research School
Please do not select the “APPLY” button. All expressions of interest must be submitted to A/Prof Julien Louys or Dr Mark de Bruyn containing:
- Statement addressing your suitability for the project/scholarship
- Research proposal
- 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: 11.59pm Friday 6th October 2023
The preferred applicant will then be invited to apply for the program and scholarship on-line
Get in touch
If you have a question, need some help with your scholarship application, or would like to make a donation, feel free to contact us.