ANU-CSIRO PhD Network in Integrated Water Resources Management
 

The Research Problem Area
In Australia we face crucial problems with respect to the management of our water resources. Making the allocation of water among conflicting uses more efficient and equitable, and adequately protecting the water quality and ecology in our supply dams, streams, groundwater and lakes are just two challenging examples. Our problems are compounded by extreme climatic variability and potential climate change. We need to be in a better position to assess policy and management options in an integrated and systematic manner to deal with our water future and make it more sustainable.

Modelling of our hydrologic and related systems is recognised as essential to support IWRM, handle the complexities of these problems, build on our knowledge base and make it transparent so that we can offer improved and credible information for decision making. There is, however, an increasing gap between the knowledge needed and the modelling expertise available to tackle the problems.

Possible topics

Network Coordinators
Prof Tony Jakeman
tony.jakeman@anu.edu.au
+61 2 61254742

Dr Francis Chiew
francis.chiew@csiro.au
+61 2 62465717

“Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) is a process, which coordinates the development and management of water, land and related resources in order to maximise the resultant economic and social welfare in an equitable manner without compromising the sustainability of vital ecosystems”
 

(as defined by the Global Water Partnership, Stockholm).

Links
CSIRO Land and Water
ANU
ANU Water Initiative
ANU iCAM

PhD Program
The Australian National University Water Initiative and CSIRO Land and Water have developed a Network to address the need for doctoral training in hydrological and other catchment modelling and methods to support Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM).

 We are seeking high quality students to enroll in a PhD program in IWRM at the ANU under the supervision of experts at Australia’s two leading research institutions. Top-up scholarships are available for those successful with APAs or equivalent funds,  as well as a limited number of full scholarships.

To apply
Applicants should contact one of the Network Coordinators to discuss project proposals BEFORE submitting an application. Applications must contain

• the appropriate ANU student application form

• a summary of the project proposal

• a resume

• a transcript of academic record

• a copy of an Australian Postgraduate Award or other scholarship application.

Top-up Scholarships
These are valued at A$10,000 pa and are available to students who are eligible to enrol at The Australian National University. Operational support will be provided as needed within the project areas of the program.

Full scholarships
Some of these are available to students and are valued at approximately $20,000. These are jointly funded by ANU and CSIRO and do not incorporate a top-up. Operational support will be made available to successful applicants.

International students
International students will need to fund their fees.

Criteria
Students will have a strong background and research interest in one or more areas including mathematics, engineering, model integration, hydrology, ecology, economics, psychology, sociology, participatory processes and environmental science.  Optional coursework is available within the new Master of Environment degree which has specialisations in Water Science and Management, and Integrated Assessment Modelling. Short-term international exchanges with leading partner institutions can form part of the PhD program.

Applications will be assessed on

• the quality and relevance of the proposed project

• prior academic performance including course marks, and publications in conferences and journals.

ANU forms
Australian and New Zealand students
International students