Ramifications of Climate Change on Microbial Ecology in the Pacific Ocean
Closing Date: 31 December 2021Apply Now
PhD Opportunity
Microbial biodiversity in the tidal zone is responsible for important biological processes such as geochemical cycling and carbon sequestration. Climate change in the Pacific Islands has resulted in the restructuring of these zones affecting local marine ecology.
The tidal interface between the ocean and land is a complex microbiome. Increased rates of shoreline recession and extreme meteorological events due to climate change have resulted in alterations to microbial diversity. This research project will assemble locally relevant biodiversity markers to monitor the effects of climate in the Pacific Islands. Next-generation technologies will also be employed to assess the changing microbial profiles at the tidal interface. The research will mostly focus on cyanobacteria and their role in nutrient cycling in the Pacific Ocean. The microbial biodiversity and metabolomic profiles of different atolls will also be investigated. Expected outcomes include the development of a predictive model to assess the effects of global warming on microbial diversity.
PhD Opportunity details
Funding:
A scholarship opportunity may also be available pending approvals and selection by the supervisor. The scholarship opportunity may also be offered to the successful candidate subject to the grant being fully established.
Supervisor: Brett Neilan
Available to: Domestic and International students
PhD
Eligibility Criteria
The applicant will need to meet the minimum eligibility criteria for admission.
Application Procedure
Interested applicants should send an email expressing their interest along with scanned copies of their academic transcripts, CV, a brief statement of their research interests and a proposal that specifically links them to the research project.
Please send the email expressing interest to Brett.Neilan@newcastle.edu.au by 5pm on 31 December 2021.
Applications Close 31 December 2021 Apply Now
| Contact | Brett Neilan |
|---|---|
| Phone | +4921 5544 |
| Brett.Neilan@newcastle.edu.au |
PhD and Research MastersFind out more
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.