Project summary
An opportunity currently exists in Earth / Environmental Science research of a rehabilitating coastal wetland, Sunshine Coast Biosphere, Queensland. The research team, led by Dr Gareth Chalmers, is seeking an enthusiastic scientist that has a passion for field work, rehabilitation of wetlands, and understanding of coastal processes and carbon dynamics.
Research will include, but not limited to, creation of wetland elevation/sedimentation models, monitoring salinity changes, hydroperiod models, as well as the use of cutting-edge technology to determine carbon dynamics and organo-mineral interactions (ie XPS).
The Blue Heart project is an unique opportunity and a ‘living laboratory’ that investigates whether rehabilitating wetlands can keep pace with local sea level rise (elevation -0.2 to 0.7m). The project will build on the preliminary findings of a 3-year project that shows changes in RSET-MH elevation, sedimentation rates and hydroperiods due to natural and man-made variations.
Essential project aspects
- Strong Field / Safety Leadership on land and water (ie canoe)
- Extend RSET-MH measurement campaign and significance
- Maintain monitoring infrastructure in place
- Liaise with University staff, students and local government
- Build statistical and process-informed models
- Inform stakeholders on blue carbon sequestration outcomes
Applications close
31 May 2026 11:55pm
To complete an application you will need to create an account and login to the HDR scholarships portal.
Ideal eligible candidates
Applicants must have BSc, majoring in Earth/Environmental Sciences or related field. This project can be structured to be undertaken part time by applicants who are currently employed, or full time if preferred.
- At least hold a Bachelor of Science in Earth/ Environmental disciplines or equivalent for MSc candidature
- BSc (Hons) or MSc completed or near completion for PhD candidature
- Essential: Field work leadership skill or willing to develop; as well as current driver’s license
- Desirable: field instrumentation (ie loggers) experience; R/Python time-series/statistics; interest in coastal wetland processes
How to apply
Primary Supervisor: Dr Gareth Chalmers
Start: 2026 (negotiable)
Review of applications: begins 1 June 2026
Email the following to gchalmers@usc.edu.au:
- one PDF that includes CV
- transcript
- up to 1 page statement on research interests
- contacts for two referees
Funding
Some operational funds available and applicants can apply for a competitive research training scholarship (RTP). Domestic students may be eligible for a tuition fee scholarship. For international students please visit HDR Fee Structure for more information. Domestic students include Australian citizen; or New Zealand citizen; or Australian permanent residency visa holder; or Australian permanent humanitarian visa holder.
Contact
Dr Gareth Chalmers
Email: gchalmers@usc.edu.au