2023 Development of an APSIM module for flax (Linum usitatissimum) and safflower (Carthamus tinctorius) – The School of Molecular and Life Sciences

Status: Closed

Applications open: 1/04/2023
Applications close: 30/04/2023

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About this scholarship
Description/Applicant information

The School of Molecular and Life Sciences, at Curtin University, is offering two competitive scholarships for students to study for their PhD in an agriculture-focused subject area within the Discipline of Agriculture & Food. The scholarships aim to support applied, industry-focused, agricultural research and development at Curtin University and to strengthen capacity in key strategic areas of the university and its partners.

Project Description

Flax (Linum usitatissimum ) and safflower (Carthamus tinctorius ) are new crops being investigated by Western Australian farmers. Both are grown for their seed oil, which has both dietary and industrial applications. The species can help to diversify farming systems in Western Australia and provide farmers with valuable new markets.

There is an increasing need for digital tools to inform research and agricultural management. Crop simulation models are valuable and low-cost tools for exploring agronomic management strategies needed to optimize production. A crop model can refine research questions and guide further research and development activities. The Agricultural Production Systems sIMulator (APSIM) is an advanced platform for modelling and simulating agricultural systems. It was developed in Australia and is now internationally recognized as a research and farm management tool. It contains a comprehensive suite of modules that simulate various plant, animal, soil, climate, and management interactions. Models have been developed for all the major crop species grown in Australia, but no module currently exists for flax or safflower.

Flax and Safflower modules in APSIM will have immediate applications for facilitating the development of industries for these species in Australia, and international applications for other regions where they are already an important component of agricultural systems.

The aim of the project will be to develop the flax and safflower module within APSIM in a research partnership between Curtin University and DPIRD. The research will involve model development and simulation in APSIM, and the collection of data from field trials needed for model validation and testing.

Student type

• Future Students

Faculty

• Faculty of Science & Engineering
  • Science courses

Course type

• Higher Degree by Research

Citizenship

• Australian Citizen
• Australian Permanent Resident
• New Zealand Citizen
• Permanent Humanitarian Visa
• International Student

Scholarship base

• Merit Based

Value

The successful candidate will receive a stipend of $32,250.00 per annum pro rata (tax free), this amount will be indexed annually. The total value of the annual scholarships (stipend and fees) is approx. $60,000 - $70,000 p.a. Applicants will be supported in applying for supplemental funding.

The duration of the award shall be for three years with a possible extension of up to six months (maximum), assessed on a case-by case basis.

Scholarship Details
Maximum number awarded

1

Eligibility criteria

We are seeking a candidate with undergraduate qualifications in agricultural science, plant breeding, ecology, or an equivalent discipline. The candidate must meet minimum English language requirements and have a C-class Australian license (or equivalent) and be comfortable driving and working in remote locations. 

Experience in both laboratory and field research, as well as data collection and analysis, are highly desirable. Experience with crop modeling software, statistical analysis, and data manipulation in RStudio is highly desirable.

Application process

Please contact us via the EOI form .

The EOI form supports the submission of the CV, academic transcripts, research experience, publication outputs and referees.

Applicants are also strongly encouraged to contact the listed project lead with their current curriculum vitae, a summary of their research skills and experience and the reason they are interested in this specific project.

Enrolment Requirements

Recipients must complete their milestone 1 within 6 month of enrolment and remain enrolled on a full-time basis for the duration of the scholarship.

Enquiries

A/Prof Sarita Bennett

Agriculture & Food Discipline Lead

[email protected]

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