Under their wing: new ornithology scholarship
A newly funded philanthropic scholarship to study the nocturnal movements of shorebird communities within the Port Stephens and Hunter estuaries is set to reveal more about the foraging behaviours of our native shorebirds than ever before.
The Margaret Flynn Ornithology Conservation Science Scholarship will be awarded to a PhD candidate to join the Conservation Science Research Group to study where shorebirds of different species go to feed and roost at night.
The successful candidate will join an extensive field research project working across both the Port Stephens and Hunter estuaries using 24/7 automated motus telemetry to track the birds after dark, and fill critical gaps in our knowledge of shorebird movements and habitats.
As we continue to lose so much of the world around us, the joyful commitment of the University of Newcastle researchers dedicated to the survival of these charming creatures is both infectious and reassuring. Birds have always been important to my family and I am proud to support this area of research."
Margaret Flynn
Scholarship Donor
Sentinels of our shorelines
Shorebirds are fascinating creatures and can tell us a lot about the health of our natural world. As migratory species, shorebirds are extremely sensitive to changes in their environment. Studying their movements offers insights around how climate-change induced sea level rises will affect habitat choices and help inform more effective conservation strategies now and into the future.
Thank you from our researchers
Receiving support from a scholarship is a career defining moment with many ripple effects.
More than just financial support, it provides invaluable opportunities for students to further their training, position themselves in the field, build their confidence and professional networks, and help protect our natural world in Australia and worldwide for future generations. We thank Margaret Flynn for enabling the next generation of biological science advocates.”
Dr Andrea Griffin
Associate Professor in Wildlife Conservation Science
School of Environmental and Life Sciences
To learn more about how you or your business can philanthropically support an area you are passionate about, please see Kate's contact information below.
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Contact
- Kate
- Phone: 02 4921 8612
- Email: philanthropy@newcastle.edu.au
Aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals
The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.