Higher Degree by Research Application Portal

TitleDeveloping Genomic Strategies for Coral Reef Conservation
SupervisorDr Kate Quigley
Dr Rich Edwards
CourseDoctor of Philosophy
KeywordsCoral Reefs
Translocation
Climate Change
Threatened Species
CategoriesBiological Sciences
Research areaBiological Sciences
Project description

With the increasing threat of extinction facing coral species, particularly in Australia, there is an urgent need to develop genomic resources that can inform conservation actions. This project focuses on developing a genetic conservation toolkit for vulnerable coral reef species and will support evidence-based conservation strategies. The research will explore the genetic diversity, population structure, and adaptive potential of corals, ensuring that genetic information can be integrated into active restoration and translocation efforts, with a focus on improving the resilience of coral populations to climate change.

Opportunity statusOpen
Open date18 Oct 2024
Close date31 Dec 2025
Funding source

Please consult the UWA Scholarships web page for more information.

Domestic or international students should review available research scholarships.

SchoolGraduate Research School
Contact

Dr. Kate Quigley

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

Specific project requirement

• Fieldwork experience, including coral sampling and monitoring in diverse reef environments; Dive Master certification (minimum).

• Expertise in molecular ecology, including DNA/RNA extraction, genome sequencing, and population genetics analysis.

• Proficiency in bioinformatics and genomic data analysis, with a focus on conservation genetics.

• Strong organizational skills for collaboration with conservation agencies and partners, and translating genomic data into actionable conservation plans.

Additional information

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 Postgraduate Research Scholarship. See the UWA Scholarships web page for more information.

Course typeDoctorates
Description

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.

Duration4 years

Guidance