PhD Opportunity in Conservation Genomics of an Endangered Moth Griffith University in Australia

Griffith University is recruiting a PhD student for a project in conservation genomics focused on an endangered moth from Southeast Queensland. The project is led by Dr. Natalie Jones (Ecology) and Dr. Dan Bock (Molecular Ecology) within the School of Environment and Science / Australian Rivers Institute.

The research will generate the first genomics dataset for the Southern Pink Underwing Moth (Phyllodes imperialis smithersi), an endangered insect restricted to fragmented subtropical rainforests in northern NSW and southern Queensland. The work combines genetics, ecology, and molecular ecology to assess genetic diversity, inbreeding, long-term effective population size, and conservation priorities across the species’ range.

This PhD is collaborative, involving Bioplatforms Australia, Invertebrates Australia, and the NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW). The project aims to inform habitat protection, rainforest regeneration, and possible genetic rescue or translocation decisions for this priority endangered invertebrate.

Eligibility highlights: applicants should have a background in genetics and/or ecology and have achieved a first-class honours degree or a master’s degree. The successful candidate will need to apply for a Griffith University Postgraduate Research Scholarship to support their stipend for three years of full-time study.

If you are interested in a PhD in conservation genomics, endangered species conservation, or invertebrate genetics, contact Natalie Jones or Dan Bock for more information.