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Fisheries genomics of nearshore, estuarine and/or freshwater species

This project will apply modern genomic tools to investigate population connectivity, local adaptation and evolutionary histories for key nearshore, estuarine or freshwater species. The results will inform whether population structure is consistent with scales of assessment and management, and identify genetic diversity that may be important for population resilience. The successful candidate will receive training in genomic data generation and analysis, population genetic theory and applied fisheries science, and will work closely with fisheries researchers and managers. The project is suited to students with backgrounds in biology, ecology, fisheries science or related disciplines who have an interest in genomics and applied conservation or fisheries management.

Important dates

Opens: 13-05-2026 Closes: 15-06-2026

Applies to

Domestic International Postgraduate Research

At a glance

Nearshore, estuarine and freshwater ecosystems support a diverse range of fish and invertebrate species across multiple life-history stages. Many of these species are highly accessible to human activities and are particularly vulnerable to environmental change. Species targeted by recreational, commercial and Indigenous fishers represent an important component of Western Australia’s fishery resources. Effective fisheries management therefore relies on accurate biological information for harvested species. In particular, improved understanding of population connectivity and genetic diversity is critical for defining stock structure and identifying appropriate population units for assessment and management.

  • This project will apply modern genomic tools to investigate population connectivity, local adaptation and evolutionary histories in populations of key nearshore, estuarine or freshwater species.
  • The focal taxa may include fish and invertebrate aquatic species selected on the basis of fisheries or conservation importance, such as
    - Nearshore; whiting, mulloway
    - Estuarine; black bream
    - Freshwater species; smooth marron and hairy marron
  • The specific research questions will be determined based on need and the interests/skills of candidates. Specific objectives may include:
    - Estimating population connectivity and genetic adaptation using whole genome sequence data
    - Modelling demographic histories and evolution of populations over evolutionary timeframes (hundreds to thousands of generations)
  • The project will involve field work to remote locations in south-west and mid-west Western Australia, and may include land-based and/or vessel-based fieldwork.

Eligibility Guidelines

To be eligible, you must meet the entry requirements for a Masters or PhD at ECU.
Specifically, the preferred candidate must have:

  • Bachelor's degree (Weighted Course Average Mark or WAM > 65) in ecology, conservation biology, molecular biology, marine science, or a related discipline (if applying for Masters).
  • Master’s or 1st-class Honours degree in ecology, conservation biology, molecular biology, marine science, or a related discipline (if applying for PhD).
  • Demonstrable experience in fish biology and/or fish ecology
  • Strong skills in data analysis, including data visualisation.
  • Proficiency in coding using R or other relevant platforms.
  • Experience working with molecular genetics, population genetics or genomics (desirable)

Selection criteria

An understanding of fish or invertebrate biology, ecology, and population dynamics

  • Experience with data management, statistical analysis, and data visualisation (essential)
  • Demonstrable molecular wet lab skills, such as DNA extraction or genomic library preparation (desirable)
  • Experience with programming languages and coding, such as R, Python or Unix (desirable)

Terms and conditions

All scholarships are awarded at ECU’s discretion.

How to apply

  • To apply please send your CV, academic transcripts, 1-page proposal, and a brief document (at most 2-pages) addressing the selection criteria to Dr Sean Buckley (email: s.buckley@ecu.edu.au)
  • In your 1-page proposal, describe how molecular genetic techniques can be used for fishery resource management. Discuss your ideas for applying molecular genetic techniques to study nearshore, estuarine and/or freshwater resources in mid-western and south-western Australia, and how this can improve sustainability.
  • Applications due by 15 June 2026.

Further information

Questions about this scholarship can be directed to enquiries@ecu.edu.au.

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