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Navigating the urban environment: landscape genomics of two skink species in Perth

Project Outline

Understanding connectivity across the urban environment is an important part of conservation management. This research project will combine genomic and environmental data to assess connectivity and genetic diversity in two fossorial skinks endemic to Western Australia — Buchanan’s snake-eyed skink, commonly found in urban gardens, and West-coast laterite ctenotus, restricted to remnant bushland. Comparing how these two different species move across the landscape will help inform conservation management of urban biodiversity. The student will conduct lab-based (DNA extractions) and computer-based (bioinformatics and population genomics analysis) work in this project. Field work is not required but may be optionally included.

Host University: ECU/Conservation and Biodiversity Research Centre (CBRC)

Desired skills

Prospective candidates should have a Bachelor of Science degree, preferably with specialisation in Conservation Biology, Wildlife Management or Genetics (or equivalent). Some field experience (reptile trapping, animal handling) desirable but not essential. Good interpersonal communication and the ability to work as part of a collaborative and multidisciplinary team will be expected from the candidate. The ability for independent, organised work and advanced communication skills in English (oral and written) are also essential.

Project Area: Conservation genetics / Landscape genetics / Genomics

Supervisor(s): Dr Sean Buckley (ECU), Dr Rob Davis (ECU), Dr Brenton von Takach (Curtin University) and Calum Irvine (UWA)

Project level: Masters

Funding: Internal funding for research expenses and sequencing

Start date: Semester 1, 2025

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