The Cetacean Ecology and Acoustics Laboratory (www.uq.edu.au/whale) has two available PhD projects in humpback whale social sounds.
1) The effects of noise on social sound communication
This project will focus on how natural and anthropogenic sources of noise affect social sound communication in humpback whales. It will explore how different sounds are propagated in different environments and the effects of increasing noise on social sound propagation.
2) Population variation in social communication
This project will explore the use of social vocalisations in different geographic populations and different contexts (feeding, breeding and migrating) looking for geographic and contextual similarities in social sound use. Outcomes of this study will provide more information on the function of specific social vocalisations.
Applicants should have a strong interest in bioacoustics (essential), and previous experience in acoustic analysis techniques (preferred). Overseas applicants, to be competitive for an international scholarship, must:
1) provide evidence of a strong academic record
2) hold an honours degree (first class) or masters degree in a related subject and
3) have at least one published scientific paper
Applicants within Australia or New Zealand must meet criteria 1 and 2 only.
To apply, reply with an email to Dr Rebecca Dunlop (r.dunlop@uq.edu.au) including a cover letter (indicating your preferred project), a CV and contact details of three referees. The closing date is 1st September 2015.