About the opportunity
We are currently looking for a PhD candidate to analyse the unique fossil assemblages of the underwater caves of the Mt Gambier region. The Mt Gambier deposits are the only caves in Australia to preserve in exquisite detail the remains of Australia’s megafauna, as well as numerous other taxa, in flooded settings. The primary focus of this role is to undertake research in the palaeontology, taphonomy, and ecology of the fossil remains from excavated underwater deposits and new material from previously unstudied underwater fossil localities. This project includes field, museum, and laboratory work. Success in this role requires collaboration with the Cave Divers Association of Australia, the South Australian Museum, the University of Adelaide, and the University of Queensland.
About us
This project will be undertaken through the Australian Research Centre for Human Evolution (ARCHE). ARCHE is a world leader in research and education on all aspects of human evolutionary studies. We provide a dynamic and cooperative research environment that seeks to understand how humans and their societies across the globe evolved over time. We emphasise the study of the biological and cultural evolution of humans and our place in the natural world, with a growing focus on Australia, Asia, and the Pacific. Successful applicant will be based at Nathan Campus.
About you
The selection of applicants for the award of higher degree research scholarships at Griffith University involves consideration of your academic merit and research background. To be successful within this role, you will be able to combine field and laboratory studies with analytical skills. You will have evidence of a passion for palaeontology, with a strong desire to undertake research in biology and geology.
- Expressions of interest are welcome from domestic and international applicants.
- Applicants must have completed, or expect to complete, a bachelors degree with honours equivalent to first class honours or a Masters degree (AQF Level 9) incorporating a significant research component of a standard comparable to a bachelor honours degree or be regarded by Griffith University as having an equivalent level of attainment in accordance with Schedule One of the HDR Scholarship Policy . For further information on the eligibility requirements for the program refer here .
Please note:
- A background in scuba diving is desired .
About the scholarship
The 2022 Griffith University Postgraduate Research Scholarship has an annual stipend of $28,854 (indexed) for a period of up to three years of full-time study. Please see the GUPRS Conditions of Award for more information.
A successful International applicant will also be awarded a Griffith University International Postgraduate Research Scholarship to cover tuition fees for up to three years. Please see the GUIPRS Conditions of Award for more information.
EoI process
Please do not select the “APPLY” button. All expressions of interest must be submitted to j.louys@griffith.edu.au containing:
- Statement addressing your suitability for the project/scholarship
- Evidence that you have completed a program with the required grades as detailed in the about you section
- A curriculum vitae (CV)
- Names of two referees
The closing date for expressions of interest is: [5 pm AEST, Friday, 12, August, 2022]
The preferred applicant will then be invited to apply for the program and scholarship on-line
What Griffith offers
As a scholarship holder, you will study with a University that ranks among the top 2% worldwide and spans across campuses in South East Queensland. At Griffith University, we’ve worked hard to create a culture that will challenge you to be curious, creative and courageous. We also support the professional and personal development of all our HDR candidates and invest in the skills of our people. Griffith University values diversity, inclusion and flexibility and we encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, and people of all backgrounds to apply. Griffith’s strategic goals are to also increase the proportion of women in senior academic and administrative roles and in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics and Medicine (STEMM).
ARCHE provides a creative and collaborative environment that fosters the next generation of human evolutionary scientists. We offer a range of research and learning opportunities for students at all levels, from undergraduate, honours, masters, to PhD studies. Students can learn from and work with world-class supervisors and fellow researchers, who can provide links to national and global research networks, field sites, and professional societies. State-of-the-art facilities provide the tools for learning and research on all aspects of human evolution.
Further information
For project related enquiries please contact:
Associate Professor Julien Louys
Phone: (07) 3735 7908
Email: j.louys@griffith.edu.au
For administration enquiries please contact:
Griffith Graduate Research School
Phone: (07) 3735 3817
Email: hdr-scholarship@griffith.edu.au
