Alcoa of Australia

PhD Research Project

Impacts of bauxite mining on the breeding and feeding behaviour of black cockatoos in the northern jarrah forest

We seek a highly motivated PhD candidate to study the responses of black cockatoos, specifically the forest red-tailed black cockatoo, to bauxite mine operations in the northern jarrah forest in Western Australia in collaboration with mining company, Alcoa of Australia. The project will involve field study within Alcoa's Myara, Huntly and Willowdale bauxite minesites near Dwellingup. The project will involve comparing feeding rates of black cockatoos in post-mining restoration and unmined forest with a view to modelling predictors of high value foraging habitat and recommending prescriptions for enhancing restoration as foraging habitat for black cockatoos. There is also scope to study the breeding behaviour of birds as mining moves into the new Myara region and compare this with other known sites of breeding that are not being mined. This project offers the successful candidate opportunity to develop skills in data modelling and field assessment of black cockatoo feeding residues, nesting habitat and associated landscape/habitat predictors.

Required:

• The successful candidate will need to obtain an Australian Postgraduate Award (APA) at either Murdoch University (applications close 31 May) or the University of Western Australia.
• First class honours mark in biological or environmental sciences or upper second class honours,
• Some field experience,
• Ability to work independently.

Alcoa top-up scholarship provided: $10, 000pa ($5, 000pa living allowance and $5, 000pa operating expenses).

For further information or to apply send CV (including details of 2 academic referees), academic record and letter of interest to: Dr Vicki Stokes, Senior Research Scientist, Alcoa of Australia, phone: 9530 2325 or Email: vicki.stokes@alcoa.com.au

Applications Close: 23 May 2012