Charles Sturt University is committed to excellence in research, and to identifying and supporting areas and projects that allow the University to undertake internationally competitive research and research training.

We are calling for applications from prospective students interested in two research projects listed below:

Project 1

Developing new genetic approaches to decreasing the reproductive frost sensitivity of wheat

Frosts during flowering severely impact wheat yields, causing significant losses each year. This project will employ molecular and physiological approaches to investigate the variation in frost hardiness among wheat germplasm.

Frosts at flowering severely reduce wheat yields, costing hundreds of millions annually. Wheat germplasm varies in winter hardiness and frost tolerance. This CSU and CSIRO project explores the genetics of reproductive frost tolerance to identify markers and genes for improving wheat performance in frost conditions. The goal is to enhance frost tolerance through germplasm selection and targeted gene manipulation.

The PhD will investigate the genetics, molecular biology, and physiology of wheat's frost response, supported by a 3-year CSU scholarship with a GRDC Top-Up.

Project 2

Surviving the freeze: unlocking genetic adaptation to frost in a changing climate

Frost damage is estimated to cost the Australian grains industry $360 M per year in lost production.

New research will focus on frost resilience, identifying novel opportunities for genetic adaptation in a changing environment.

This research will have a multidisciplinary approach to develop understanding of wheat adaptation to frost and genetic tools to enhance breeding strategies for resilient genotypes, by combining crop physiology, genetic diversity, and agronomy.

The successful candidate will be supervised by an established, successful and industry focused team of research scientists, with direct linkages to a national research project within the current frost investments from GRDC. An attractive scholarship package is available with a 3-year CSU stipend + GRDC Top-Up stipend along with annual operating and travel budget.

More information is available here

How to apply

Project 1

Prospective applicants should contact Sergio Moroni ([email protected]) before submitting a formal application for enrolment.

After contacting Sergio Moroni, applicants will need to apply for enrolment.

Prospective Higher Degree by Research candidates can apply for the CSU Scholarship & GRDC Research Scholarship – Top Up Scholarship when completing their Charles Sturt course admission application. When given the option to apply for a scholarship select 'Yes'; 'Full-time AGRTP' and 'Other'. Under 'Other' enter CSU Scholarship & GRDC Research Scholarship – Top Up - Project 1.

Project 2

Prospective applicants should contact Felicity Harris ([email protected]) before submitting a formal application for enrolment.

After contacting Felicity Harris, applicants will need to apply for enrolment.

Prospective Higher Degree by Research candidates can apply for the CSU Scholarship & GRDC Research Scholarship – Top Up Scholarship when completing their Charles Sturt course admission application. When given the option to apply for a scholarship select 'Yes'; 'Full-time AGRTP' and 'Other'. Under 'Other' enter CSU Scholarship & GRDC Research Scholarship – Top Up - Project 2.

Application timelines

Project 1

Applications will remain open until successful candidates have been selected.

Project 2

Applications close Friday 2 May 2025.