Higher Degree by Research Application Portal

Nitrogen (N) fertilisers represent a significant input cost in cropping systems, placing substantial economic and environmental burdens on agricultural production. The feremycorrhizal fungus Austroboletus occidentalis enhances nitrogen nutrition in grain crops through synergistic interactions with nitrogen-fixing soil bacteria (diazotrophs). This PhD project has two main objectives: (i) to isolate and characterise diazotrophs from jarrah forest and agricultural soils, and quantify their nitrogen nutritional benefits to non-legume crops, both in isolation and in combination with A. occidentalis; and (ii) to elucidate the underlying mechanisms of these interactions. The expected outcomes of this research would contribute to reducing synthetic N fertilizer use in non-legume crops and improving the sustainability of farming systems.

The ideal candidate requires:

- Honours/Masters degree in Microbiology, Agricultural Science or related field with strong academic record

- Experience in microbiology techniques, especially bacterial isolation and fungal cultures

- Previous work with glasshouse experiments on plant-microbe interactions

- Competency in molecular biology techniques (DNA extraction, PCR, etc.)

- Familiarity with statistical analysis software (e.g., R, SAS or equivalent)

- Evidence of research capability through publications/presentations/thesis

- Master’s degree with a significant research component, or First Class Honours or equivalent from a recognised institution

- Strong academic record

- Demonstrated research experience and analytical skills

- Excellent written and oral communication skills in English (IELTS overall score of 6.5 with no band below 6.0, or equivalent)

- Ability to work independently and as part of a research team.

 Scholarship Requirements:

 - Must meet UWA's admission requirements for the Doctor of Philosophy.

-  Must be eligible to enrol full-time and on-campus.

-  International candidates must meet visa requirements.

Apply online through the UWA website.

Dr Khalil Kariman

Email: khalil.kariman@uwa.edu.au 

Available for both local and international applicants.