PhD - Improving the Representation of C4 Photosynthesis in Vegetation Models

C₄ photosynthesis is a fundamental process underpinning the productivity of some of the world’s most important crops, such as maize and sugarcane, as well as grasslands. Despite its global significance and efficiency in converting CO₂ and sunlight into plant biomass, C₄ physiology and acclimation processes are not well represented in most vegetation and land surface models. This PhD project at the University of Technology Sydney aims to advance scientific understanding of C₄ photosynthesis and improve predictions of C₄ plant performance both in Australia and globally. The research will deliver more accurate estimates of C₄ productivity and carbon uptake, which are crucial for climate change projections, land use planning, and food security. The project combines leaf-level measurements, physiological model development, and large-scale ecosystem modelling and evaluation. The candidate will work on leveraging new and existing datasets to refine C₄ photosynthesis models at the leaf level, focusing on temperature sensitivities and environmental responses. Improved formulations will be implemented into the Global Dynamic Vegetation Model LPJ-GUESS, with model performance evaluated using eddy covariance and other observational datasets. The project will also assess the implications of these model revisions for the carbon cycle at large scales across Australia and worldwide. Supervision is provided by Dr. Juergen Knauer (University of Technology Sydney) and Professor Danielle Way (Australian National University), both with extensive expertise in plant physiology, biochemistry, phenotyping, ecosystem modelling, and carbon cycling. The student will join a strong interdisciplinary and international team and have opportunities to collaborate with researchers working on large-scale land surface and Earth system modelling, including frameworks such as ACCESS, CABLE-POP, and the broader LPJ-GUESS community. Applicants should have a BSc with Honours or an MSc in environmental science, ecology, biology, or a related field, with a strong academic record. Programming experience (R, Python, C++, Fortran) is required, and candidates must be willing to learn C++ during the PhD. Eligibility includes completion of a UTS-recognised degree (MSc Research or MSc Coursework with a research thesis of at least 6 months, or Bachelor Honours degree with 1st Class, 2nd Class Division 1, or equivalent/higher qualification), or other evidence of qualifications suitable for graduate research. International students must meet visa requirements, including full-time, on-campus enrolment and English language tests. The position is fully funded, offering AUD 39,000 per year for 3.5 years, covering tuition and stipend. The application process is open until all positions are filled, and interested candidates are encouraged to apply as soon as possible. For further information, visit the UTS Graduate Research applications page or the UTS Scholarship search tool for additional funding opportunities.