Responsible research and innovation:  a new generation of responsible researchers in Plant sciences

The Project

Synthetic biology techniques are central to the plant sciences as researchers look to new varieties of plants to withstand drought and climate change conditions and feed growing populations.   But what do communities want?  How do farmers see this future?  How will these new crops be regulated?  And crucially, how do plant scientists know what communities want and communicate effectively with them so that responsible innovation is commonplace?  Working alongside a multi-disciplinary team within an Industrial Transformation Training Hub on Future Crops, there is an ideal place for PhD projects looking at these and related questions.

Eligibility

Admission to a Doctor of Philosophy degree at ANU requires:

1. An Australian Bachelor degree with at least Second Class or its international equivalent, or
2. Another degree with a significant research/thesis component that may be assessed as equivalent to paragraph (1), or
3. A combination of qualifications, research publications and/or professional experience related to the field of study that may be assessed as equivalent to paragraph (1).

Further information relating to eligibility can be found on the ANUs website: http://www.anu.edu.au/study/apply/anu-postgraduate-research-domestic-and-international-applications

The Candidate

The successful applicant will have a passion for science communication and interdisciplinary research. They will have a background in a relevant discipline and an awareness/knowledge of social research methods. They will also possess strong interpersonal skills, curiosity, strong writing skills, and be able to work effectively as part of a small team and also independently.

Supervisors

Professor Joan Leach, Director, Australian National Centre for the Public Awareness of Science, ANU

Funding

The successful applicant with be based in the Australian National Centre for the Public Awareness of Science (CPAS) at the ANU. Scholarships are available for both domestic and international applicants, and CPAS will work with the successful applicant to guide them through the scholarship process.

To Apply

To be considered for this position, in the first instance please forward a current CV (2-page max.) and short cover letter (1-page max.) to Prof. Joan Leach (joan.leach@anu.edu.au).  In the cover letter, be sure to let us know why you are the perfect candidate based on the skills outlined above. Applications will be assessed on a rolling basis as they are received, and this position will remain open until filled.