The School of Earth, Environmental and Biological Sciences (EEBS), Science and Engineering Faculty (SEF) at Queensland University of Technology (QUT) in Brisbane, Australia is offering a PhD scholarship for a three year period. The project will be affiliated with the QUT Institute for Future Environments (IFE).

The research project is funded by Arrow Energy Pty Ltd and is directed to the understanding of groundwater processes within the coal seam gas (CSG) setting of the Surat Basin. The specific aim of the study is to define the interface between the Walloon Coal Measures and the overlying alluvial aquifer system of the upper Condamine River, and to use hydrochemistry/isotopes to establish hydrological processes.

Research questions will need to consider: geomorphological character of bedrock surface (Jurassic), other structures that can be mapped (e.g. faults, folds), hydrogeological character of base of the alluvium, possible hydraulic connection across the interface between alluvium and underlying bedrock, variations in water levels and piezometric surfaces, chemical and isotope character and relative age of groundwaters, hydrological processes (e.g. groundwater flow, regional trends, mixing, isolation, and response to extraction/recharge), isotopic indication of the origin of gas in the Walloon Coal Measures.

The selection criteria for a suitable candidate include:

• Degree with first class Honours, or equivalent, in a suitable area of study
• Demonstrated interest in groundwater systems, hydrogeology and hydrochemistry
• Knowledge of sedimentary material and basin geology
• Evidence of successful involvement in research activities
• Well-developed verbal and written skills and ability to think analytically
• A demonstrated ability to work in teams
• A valid driving licence

The scholarship is valued at AU$35,000 per year and is tax free to both Australian and international students; international students can apply for a waiver tuition fees. Additional funds will be available for field activities, sampling and analytical support, and other travel including conference. QUT offers laboratory facilities for water analyses (e.g. ICP-OES, IC, CRDS) and rocks (e.g. ICP-MS, XRF, SEM, XRD) and advanced computing capability. The project will be linked to other groundwater projects of this and other basins and to projects developing 3D visualisation models. The research area is 3-5 hours drive from Brisbane. Further information about our groundwater research can be found at http://www.isr.qut.edu.au/gsr/index.jsp The QUT website is: http://www.qut.edu.au/

To apply, please email a two-page CV by 31 July, 2012, plus supporting documents that demonstrate relevant research experience and capability (e.g. publication, conference abstract, thesis summary, technical report abstract). Shortlisted candidates will be invited to a telephone interview. Starting dates will ideally be September-October, 2012. Candidates from non-English speaking countries will be required to demonstrate English language proficiency (e.g. IELTS).

For more information please contact: Assoc Professor Malcolm Cox [m.cox@qut.edu.au] or Dr Matthias Raiber [matthias.raiber@qut.edu.au]. Send applications to Assoc Professor Cox.