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PhD Scholarship Available

Establishing an ecological basis for stocking density of Australian bass in freshwaters: Experimental field tests of a general numerical model.
Sydney, University of New South Wales.

Project based at the School of Biological Earth and Environmental Science, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia, under ARC Linkage project 'Establishing an ecological basis for stocking density of Australian bass in freshwaters: Experimental field tests of a general numerical model'.

PROJECT AIMS:

The project aims to develop an ecological basis for freshwater fish stocking in NSW, by addressing two specific questions

Can appropriate stocking density of Australian bass be optimised for ecosystem characteristics? This will involve adapting generalised models to use ecological characteristics of Australian bass and their ecosystem, to estimate optimal stocking density and predatory impact in reservoirs;
Does stocking Australian bass at ecologically based densities enhance growth and survival, and result in a greater contribution of stocked fish to the recreational fishery? This will involve testing whether stocking at optimal densities enhances survival and growth of stocked fish relative to a range or stocking densities across 6 target reservoirs.

The successful candidate will interact closely with anglers and with research partners at the NSW Department of Primary Industries.

REQUIREMENTS:

Applicants should hold a BSc (Hons: 1 or 2A) or Masters by Research Degree in an ecosystem related discipline (biological, environmental or marine science, freshwater ecology or similar). The applicant must have solid research and communication skills, be a citizen or permanent resident of Australia, and possess or be eligible for a full NSW driver's license and boat license.

REMUNERATION:

APA(I) Stipend $25,118pa (tax-free) for 3 yrs, commencing 2007. Operating funds are available to cover research costs and research staff working with the candidate.

Send CV, academic record, and details of two academic referees by email to Dr Matt Taylor (mattytaylor@unsw.edu.au ).

For further information phone: 02-9385-2079 or 0410-558-653.