Integrated management of invasive pampas grass

Project overview

Project title

Integrated management of invasive pampas grass for enhanced land rehabilitation

Project description

This project develops novel management solutions for alien grasses (with a focus on pampas grass) that threaten the rehabilitation of ash dams associated with power plant closures. The expected outcomes are an improved understanding of the invasive grass species, their responses to different control methods and development of management guidelines. The potential benefits are enhanced rehabilitation outcomes for disturbed landscapes and improved quality of desirable flora and fauna.

Supervisory team

University

Name of university supervisor	Alex Callen
Name of university	University of Newcastle
Email address	alex.callen@newcastle.edu.au
Faculty	College of Engineering, Science and Environment

CSIRO

Name of CSIRO supervisor	Ben Gooden Michelle Rafter
Email address	Ben.Gooden@csiro.au Michelle.Rafter@csiro.au
CSIRO Business Unit	Health and Biosecurity

Industry

Name of industry supervisor	Brad Williams
Name of business/organisation	AGL Macquarie Pty Ltd
Email address	bwilliams5@agl.com.au
Website	www.agl.com.au

Further details

Primary location of student	The University of Newcastle, University Drive, Callaghan NSW
Industry engagement component location	AGL Liddell Power Station, Muswellbrook NSW
Other locations	CSIRO Black Mountain, Building 101 Clunies Ross Street, Black Mountain ACT CSIRO Dutton Park, 41 Boggo Road, Dutton Park QLD
Ideal student skillset	Degree in Science or Environmental Science or equivalent. The research focus will include but not be limited to population genetics, glasshouse/greenhouse experiments, field trials for control, spatial analysis and surveys of vegetation, insects and pathogens. Be able to work independently with good communication skills Enjoy fieldwork and laboratory work and demonstrate an interest in invasive species ecology and land rehabilitation. Ability to travel and conduct research in the field away from the University for periods of time.
Application Close Date	Open until position filled