Andy Baker

The University of New South Wales is offering a PhD opportunity focused on the 3D mapping of caves, specifically targeting the identification of water flow pathways through limestone from the surface to groundwater. This project is ideal for candidates interested in developing advanced 3D laser mapping skills and applying them to real-world geological and environmental challenges. The research will involve mapping cave ceilings at various sites across Australia, contributing to the broader project 'caves and their stalagmites: linking climate to groundwater recharge.' The successful candidate will join a multidisciplinary team of climate and groundwater scientists, gaining experience in hydrogeology, climate science, and geospatial analysis. Key academic keywords for this opportunity include 3D mapping, caves, groundwater, climate science, laser scanning, limestone, and hydrogeology. The project is led by Professor Andy Baker, an Australian Research Council Laureate Fellow at the University of New South Wales, Australia. Professor Baker is a Fellow of several prestigious societies, including the American Geophysical Union and the Royal Society of New South Wales. Applicants should have a background in earth science, geology, environmental science, or a related field, with a strong interest in 3D mapping technologies and cave systems. Experience with geospatial analysis or laser scanning is desirable. The post does not specify funding details or a deadline, but further information may be available on the referenced flier or by contacting the research team. This is an excellent opportunity for students passionate about earth sciences and environmental research to contribute to innovative projects in Australia.

The University of New South Wales (UNSW Sydney) is offering a PhD opportunity focused on using laser scanner 3D mapping of caves to understand water flow pathways from the surface to the groundwater. This research aims to utilize caves and underground spaces as observatories for tracking water movement towards groundwater, with a particular emphasis on LIDAR mapping of cave ceilings at various sites across Australia. The project seeks to identify water flow paths and characterize how groundwater is replenished, contributing to the broader understanding of climate and environmental science. The position is funded by the Australian Research Council Laureate Fellowship Project, led by Professor Andy Baker. The project, titled 'Caves and their stalagmites: linking climate to groundwater recharge,' provides a stipend between $40,000 and $50,000 AUD per year for up to four years, along with generous support for fieldwork and conferences. The opportunity is open to both domestic and international students, though international applicants must apply for or hold a Tuition Fee Scholarship. Applicants should have a keen interest in LIDAR mapping, cave hydrology, and groundwater research. General UNSW PhD requirements apply, including language proficiency and academic qualifications. For more information on the application process, candidates are encouraged to review the UNSW PhD application guidelines and contact Professor Andy Baker directly via email, providing a copy of their CV. This project is ideal for students interested in Earth science, environmental science, geology, and hydrogeology, and offers a unique chance to contribute to climate and groundwater research in Australia. For further details and to apply, visit the UNSW research application page or contact the supervisor directly.

UNSW Climate Change Research Centre is advertising a PhD position on the weather forecast for groundwater recharge events at UNSW Sydney, Australia . The project asks: What weather events replenish groundwater and how do climate influences change this? The research will use novel Australian cave observatories of recharge events and aims to provide regional stakeholders with the first weather forecast for groundwater recharge over different timescales. This opportunity is especially relevant to students interested in groundwater , climatology , meteorology , hydrology , climate change , and environmental monitoring. The supervision team includes Andy Baker (UNSW), Andrea Taschetto (UNSW), Gabriel Rau (Newcastle University), and Margaret Shanafield (Flinders University). Funding: the position is available now and is fully funded, with a stipend of $39,206 plus a $10,000 top-up scholarship per year for 3 to 4 years , along with generous training and conference support packages. Domestic and international applicants may apply; international candidates must obtain a Tuition Fee Scholarship . Eligibility: applicants should have expertise in groundwater, climatology, or meteorology. Required qualifications include a first-class Honours degree or equivalent (for example, a research master's such as an MSc with a good GPA) completed within the last 5 years , plus evidence of research experience and outputs in the subject area, such as SCOPUS-listed publications or industry research experience. How to apply: scan the QR code in the post for more information and follow the application instructions provided there. Check the scholarship and tuition fee requirements carefully before applying.