UNSW offering a unique opportunity for students to participate in a new project that combines ocean data collection using novel ocean sensors. This collaboration is with Marine Rangers of the Tiwi Islands around the Sea Country in and adjacent to the Oceanic Shoals Marine Park.
Fishing for Ocean Data in Sea Country with Marine Rangers of the Tiwi Islands Northern Territory
About the Project: The Tiwi Marine Ranger Program, established in 2001, was the first Indigenous Marine Ranger Program in the Northern Territory. This project aims to:
- Collect baseline subsurface water temperature data using cost-effective technology.
- Provide affordable long-term temperature monitoring for the Tiwi region and Oceanic Shoals Marine Park.
- Offer contextual oceanographic data for culturally significant values (e.g., turtle habitats) and commercial ventures (e.g., oyster farms).
Student Benefits:
- Learn modern ocean data collection techniques.
- Gain experience in crowd-sourcing ocean data and analysing ocean temperature data.
- Learn to code in R or Python and validate ocean models.
- Participate in fieldwork with the Tiwi Rangers in the remote NT.
Supervisors:
- Prof. Moninya Roughan (UNSW)
- Dr. Ruth Patterson (Elysium EPL)
- Dr. Rachel Groom (Charles Darwin University)
Candidate Profile:
- A BSc degree in marine biology, oceanography, or environmental sciences.
- Passion for the ocean, experience in data analysis, and cultural sensitivity.
- Knowledge of programming languages (e.g., Python, Matlab, or R).
- Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander candidates are encouraged to apply.
Scholarship Details: Postgraduate students (MSc/MPhil or PhD) will be enrolled through UNSW’s Higher Degree Research Training Program. Domestic and international students can apply for Research Training Program (RTP) scholarships, offering $38,438 per annum for 3.5 years.
- Domestic Application Deadline: 13th September 2024 (start in Term 1, 2025).
- International Application Deadline: 17th January 2025 (start in Term 2, 2025).
How to Apply: Submit an Expression of Interest to Prof. Moninya Roughan at mroughan@unsw.edu.au with the subject line: “Honours/Masters application for Fishing for Data project.” Attach a single PDF with:
- A brief cover letter (1-page max).
- CV with publication list and academic references.
- Academic transcript.
For detailed application processes and scholarship information, visit:
Domestic Scholarships: link
International Scholarships: link
Lab Website: www.oceanography.unsw.edu.au
