The University of Adelaide is offering a fully funded PhD position in Plant Ecophysiology, focusing on the assessment of Australian threatened plants' risk of mortality in response to the combined effects of drought and heatwaves. This research is highly relevant to climate change, as hotter droughts and increasing extinction risks for many species are pressing global issues. The successful candidate will join the Plant Ecophysiology Lab and work under the supervision of Dr Ilaine S. Matos (Lecturer/DECRA fellow), Dr Sami Rifai (Lecturer), and Dr Joe Atkinson (Lecturer). The project will involve fieldwork, glasshouse and laboratory work, as well as data analysis and writing throughout the PhD.

The scholarship covers a tax-exempt stipend of $36,500 AUD per year plus a $3,000 AUD top-up, with a higher rate for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander candidates ($53,608 AUD per year). Additional benefits include relocation allowances for both domestic and international candidates, 100% tuition fee waiver, and single Overseas Student Health cover for international applicants. The earliest starting date is April 2026, negotiable.

Eligibility requirements include a completed Master's degree (GPA > 5.0) and/or a completed 4-year Bachelor with Honours (GPA > 5.0) in Plant Biology or related fields, proof of English proficiency (IELTS > 6.5 or equivalent) for non-native speakers, strong analytical and programming skills in R, previous experience in plant ecology and/or physiology, and effective writing skills. Ability to drive in Australia is desirable but not essential.

To apply, candidates should email a 1-page cover letter explaining their interest and relevant experience, along with a CV in the Adelaide University format, to [email protected] before 15th February 2026. Applications may close earlier if a suitable candidate is found.

Keywords: Plant Ecophysiology, Plant Biology, Soil Science, Agronomy, Climate Change, Drought, Heatwaves, Australian Flora, Fieldwork, Glasshouse, Laboratory, Data Analysis, R Programming.