Applied conservation and management of threatened land snails of Norfolk Island

School of Science

Lead Researcher: Dr Kate Umbers

About the project

The School of Science Western Sydney University is a research leader in conservation science, with a strong reputation for delivering research outcomes of the highest quality, contributing directly to WSU's ranking of number one university in the world for adhering to the UN's Sustainable Development Goals.

We are now offering a research scholarship to a highly motivated PhD candidate to work with Dr Kate Umbers, leader of the Insect Conservation Lab, and contribute to the applied conservation and management of Norfolk Island land snails. The project is funded through the Australian Research Council's Linkage program with strong support from the School of Science, Australian Museum, Taronga Zoo, Norfolk Island Regional Council and other collaborators.

As a key part of the overall project, this PhD student will focus on determining the conservation and management actions for Norfolk Island's threatened land snails. This project will require the development of applied conservation skills including working with diverse partners, and communicating recommendations to end users such as governments and environmental charities. The project will expand ex situ conservation activities including captive breeding colonies at Taronga Zoo, and in situ activities including predator exclusion fencing, pest control and habitat enhancement. This project will provide key outcomes for snail management and conservation and is an exciting opportunity to be part of the rapidly growing movement toward invertebrate conservation in Australia.
The project will be based at the School of Science with the opportunity to work with researchers from the broader project's collaborators including close ties with Taronga Zoo.

What does the scholarship provide?

  • Domestic candidates will receive a tax-free stipend of $32,192 (AUD) per annum for up to 3 years to support living costs, supported by the Research Training Program (RTP) Fee Offset.
  • International candidates will receive a tax-free stipend of $32,192 (AUD) per annum for up to 3 years to support living costs. Those with a strong track record will be eligible for a tuition fee waiver. [and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) insurance (Single Policy).]
  • International candidates are required to hold an Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) insurance policy for the duration of their study in Australia. This cost is not covered by the scholarship and must be paid before the commencement of the scholarship.
  • Support for conference attendance, fieldwork and additional costs as approved by School.

Eligibility criteria

We welcome applicants from a range of backgrounds, who are keen to apply their skills to key issues in invertebrate conservation.

The successful applicant should:

  • Hold qualifications and experience equal to one of the following (i) an Australian First Class Bachelor (Honours) degree, (ii) coursework Masters with at least 25% research component, (iii) Research Masters degree, or (iv) equivalent overseas qualifications.
  • Demonstrate strong academic performance in subjects relevant to invertebrates, conservation, wildlife management, and/or other related disciplines such as population genetics
  • Have an understanding of the importance of invertebrate conservation, island conservation, liaising with diverse stakeholders and/or translating research into management outcomes
  • Be willing to learn a broad suite of applied conservation skills including writing conservation assessments and management plans to suit end-users.
  • Be enthusiastic and highly motivated to undertake study at an advanced level.

International applicants must also meet English language proficiency

How to apply

Follow the step-by-step instructions on the how to apply for a project scholarship(opens in a new window) page.

  • Note: You do not need to complete 'Step 5: Submit an online application for admission' when applying for this scholarship. You must complete 'Step 6: Submit an online application for a project scholarship'.

Incomplete applications or applications that do not conform to the above requirements will not be considered.

For questions and advice about the research project, contact the Lead Researcher;
Dr. Kate Umbers:  K.Umbers@westernsydney.edu.au

For questions and advice about the scholarship application process, please submit your scholarship enquiry:

  • Currently enrolled WSU HDR candidate, please submit your enquiry here
  • Not currently enrolled WSU HDR candidate, please submit your enquiry here

Applications close 30 June 2024

*Applications close at 11.59pm Australian Eastern Daylight Time (AEDT).

Scholarship reference code: PS2024_066_SoSC