PhD Opportunities in Coastal Remote Sensing, Dune Dynamics, and Environmental Science at UNSW and USC University of New South Wales in Australia

The University of New South Wales (UNSW) Water Research Laboratory and the University of Sunshine Coast (USC) are recruiting PhD students for a new ARC Linkage Project focused on coastal environmental science. This collaborative project involves partners from NSW DCCEEW, Northern Beaches Council, Noosa and Sunshine Coastal Regional Councils, University of Bordeaux/CNES, and TU Delft. Research areas include coastal mapping, vegetation and dune dynamics using satellite imagery, and high-resolution remote sensing technologies such as UAVs.

At UNSW, domestic PhD opportunities are available under the supervision of Associate Professor Kristen Splinter and Yongjing Mao, with research topics centered on vegetation and dune dynamics from satellites. There is potential for collaboration with the DCCEEW science team. At USC, both international and domestic PhD positions are available, supervised by Javier Leon and Stuart Phinn, with projects focusing on targeted high-resolution satellite applications for coastal mapping and monitoring coastal dune changes using UAVs.

Applicants should hold an Honours 1 equivalent from a BSc or a MSc with a substantial independent thesis completed within the last five years, in Civil Engineering, Remote Sensing, Environmental Sciences, or a related field. Prior research experience and publications are advantageous but not required. All applicants must meet UNSW English language requirements and demonstrate financial capacity for the duration of their studies. Additional program-specific requirements may apply.

Funding details are not explicitly provided; applicants are encouraged to explore scholarship opportunities and may need to demonstrate financial support if self-funded. For more information on the application process, visit the UNSW HDR application page or contact the relevant supervisors directly. The research environment offers access to leading facilities and the opportunity to work with a multidisciplinary team on impactful coastal environmental projects.

To apply, contact Kristen Splinter at UNSW ([email protected]) or Javier Leon at USC ([email protected]) for more information, prepare your CV and academic transcripts, and follow the HDR application process as outlined on the university websites. Indicate your interest in scholarships during the application if applicable.