Unlock the Secrets of Almond Trees: PhD Research Opportunity
We invite applications for a challenging and rewarding PhD project that aims to determine varietal water and nutrient requirements in almond trees.
The research will focus on investigating the physiological response of almond varieties to orchard management practices, identifying contributing factors to leafing failure and advising on approaches to mitigate this response. The outcomes will be supported by plant physiological measurements, including carbohydrate levels as an indicator of plant function.
Main Objectives:
* Determine the varietal-specific water and nutrient requirements for almond trees in the Murray-Darling Basin
* Investigate the impact of orchard management practices on plant functioning and stress responses
* Develop best management practices for individual almond varieties to encourage sustainable farming systems and contribute to a healthy, resilient, and sustainable river system and communities
Supervision and Collaboration
This project will be supervised by Dr Joanne Ashnest and co-supervised by Dr Bruno Holzapfel and Dr Cassandra Collins. We will work closely with growers to establish best management practices and ensure the successful implementation of the project outcomes.
Eligibility Requirements
* Candidates with Masters or honours degrees in Agricultural science, Environmental science, Plant physiology, Horticulture, or equivalent research or work experience will be favourably considered
* Applicants must demonstrate a strong understanding of plant physiology and agricultural science, as well as excellent research and communication skills
Industry Partnerships and Collaborations
This project is part of a collaborative effort between Charles Sturt University and industry partners Hort Innovation and Almond Board of Australia. We will work closely with these partners to ensure the successful implementation of the project outcomes and to provide opportunities for career development and industry engagement.