Higher Degree by Research Application Portal

With the rapid rise in ocean temperatures due to climate change, coral reefs are increasingly at risk of bleaching and mortality, driven by the loss of their symbiotic algae, Symbiodiniaceae. This PhD project aims to investigate the pace and mechanisms of evolution in coral-algal symbioses under thermal stress. By experimentally evolving Symbiodiniaceae strains, the research will focus on how quickly these microalgal symbionts can adapt to rising temperatures and the physiological impacts of these adaptations on coral hosts. Understanding the rate of evolutionary change in symbionts, and how this translates to coral resilience, will provide critical insights into the potential for natural adaptation in marine ecosystems and the future trajectory of coral survival in warming oceans.

Domestic and International Scholarships:

Please consult the UWA Scholarships web page for more information.

Dr. Kate Quigley

kate.quigley@uwa.edu.au OR kquigley@minderoo.org

• A successful PhD candidate in this project requires strong skills in experimental design, molecular biology, and ecological genomics to conduct and analyze evolution experiments with coral-algal symbioses.

• Additionally, proficiency in statistical modelling, bioinformatics, and data visualization is essential to interpret complex physiological and evolutionary data in the context of climate change.

• Experience in laboratory techniques for culturing algae or cells is preferred, as this project involves maintaining and experimentally evolving Symbiodiniaceae strains. Hands-on expertise in algal or cell culture methods will be crucial for conducting controlled experiments and ensuring the consistency of symbiont populations across various environmental conditions.

Potential candidates should undertake the following:

(1) International & Australian candidates confirm fulfilment of all admission requirements at UWA PhD Program.

(2) Send a CV & cover letter, briefly outline research interests

(3) Prepare to apply for, and secure a domestic or international scholarship. UWA Scholarships web page for more information.

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is a program of independent, supervised research that is assessed solely on the basis of a thesis, sometimes including a creative work component, that is examined externally. The work presented for a PhD must be a substantial and original contribution to scholarship, demonstrating mastery of the subject of interest as well as an advance in that field of knowledge. 

Visit the course webpage for full details of this course including admission requirements, course rules and the relevant CRICOS code/s.