Avian sleep in urban environments

This scholarship is available over three years and offers:

• a stipend of $37,450 per annum tax exempt (2026 rate)
  
• a relocation allowance of $500–1,500 (for single to family) for students moving from interstate
  

For international students, the awardee will also receive:

• tuition fees offset for the duration of four years
• single Overseas Student Health Cover policy for the duration of the student visa.

The project will form part of a broader study investigating the extent to which native Australian birds avoid, tolerate or adapt to effects of urbanisation on sleep. The project may involve a combination of field research and experimental studies, including the use of miniature tracking devices to record activity and movement. The design of the project will depend on the candidate’s input, with the opportunity to choose which component(s) of the broader study to focus on. However, the core aims of the project will include investigating trade-offs between activity and rest, as well as the impact of urban development on the behaviour of native Australian birds.

To be eligible you must:

• meet Deakin's PhD entry requirements
• enrol full time
• hold an honours degree (first class) or an equivalent standard masters degree with a substantial research component

Please refer to the research degree entry pathways page for further information.

Additional requirements:

We are looking for a highly motivated student with an excellent academic track record, including First-Class Honours (or equivalent qualification) in Zoology or Ecology. The ideal candidate will have strong scientific writing and analytical skills (preferably including proficiency in R), demonstrated ability to work independently, and a full driver’s licence. Previous experience with animal handling, bird banding, and/or wildlife tracking will also be beneficial for the project, but is not strictly required.