PhD Scholarship: Developing genetic markers for the monitoring of stocked eastern king prawn (Melicertus plebejus), Sydney
University of New South Wales
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Project based at the School of Biological Earth and Environmental Science, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia, under ARC Linkage project “Stocking of fish and prawns at ecologically determined densities into Australian estuaries”.

PROJECT AIMS: To develop a genetic monitoring program for the stock enhancement of the eastern king prawn (Melicertus plebejus). The monitoring program will rely on available and novel microsatellites to evaluate the genetic structure of stocked vs unstocked populations, assign the origin of individuals captured through fisheries and independent surveys, and develop pragmatic hatchery based programs for genetically marking organisms prior to release. The project provides the opportunity for fieldwork in NSW estuaries and at various aquaculture installations. The successful candidate will interact closely with research partners CSIRO, NSW Department of Primary Industries, and Murdoch University.

REQUIREMENTS: Applicants should hold a BSc (Hons: 1 or 2A) or Masters Degree in molecular sciences, population genetics or similar. Undergraduate study in ecology/marine science desirable. Solid research and communication skills. Applicants must be a citizen or permanent resident of Australia. Eligibility for full NSW driver’s license is desirable.

REMUNERATION: APA(I) Stipend $25,118pa (tax-free), for 3 yrs, commencing in session 2, 2007. The research grant will also cover all research costs, and includes access to a research assistant to assist with lab/fieldwork.

Send CV, academic record, and details of two academic referees by email to Dr Matt Taylor (mattytaylor@unsw.edu.au ). For full details and further information phone: 07-5523-3965 or 0410-558-653.