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PhD in Weed Science (Anaerobic Soil Disinfestation)
Description of Duties
**The successful candidate is expected to start sometime between February and April 2026. However, the start date is flexible and also dependent on visa approval. In Australia, PhD is full-time 3.5 years research activity with no coursework.**
This PhD position forms part of a 5-year, multi-institutional research program funded by Hort Innovation Australia and led by La Trobe University in collaboration with Northern Territory Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (NT DAF) Australia and Clemson University, SC. The student will contribute to selected components of the program, focusing on:
(i) Optimization of Anaerobic Soil Disinfestation (ASD) for weed suppression in Australian horticultural crops.
(ii) Glasshouse and field-scale evaluation of ASD for control of key horticultural weeds (e.g., nutgrass, clovers).
(iii) Understanding the interactions between ASD treatments, soil characteristics including soil microbial interaction, and crop performance.
The PhD will provide valuable scientific insights into the role of ASD in weed management and help develop practical recommendations for Australian growers.
We are seeking a self-motivated and enthusiastic candidate with:
– A first-class Master degree with substantial research component, or equivalent in Weed Science, Agronomy, Soil Science, Horticulture, Microbiology, or a related field.
– Strong interest in sustainable crop protection, integrated weed management, and soil–plant interactions.
– Experience with experimental design, field trials and/or laboratory techniques (e.g., soil microbiology) is highly desirable.
– Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
– Ability to work independently and as part of a multi-institutional research team.
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