Eucalypts are a fast-growing plantation tree species. However, utilisation of plantation grown eucalypts is often restricted to low value pulp chips as solid wood processing is challenging due to growth stresses. To allow their use for higher value solid wood products it is essential to understand and mitigate growth stresses.
The NZ School of Forestry at the University of Canterbury is offering a 3-year PhD project to investigate growth stresses of eucalyptus timber, focusing on Eucalyptus fastigata.
The research focus of the project will include:
Applied approaches
- Screen a NZ E. fastigata seed orchard for low growth stresses at young age
- Investigate age-age correlations of growth stresses
- Explore genetic control over growth stresses in E. fastigata
Fundamental questions
- Study the physical principal(s) responsible for creating these impressive stresses
- Probe cell wall and sap chemistry in relation to growth stresses
Supervisors
Primary Supervisor: Clemens Altaner
Key qualifications and skills
The ideal applicant will have a GPA of 7.0 (A-) or higher, a four-year bachelor degree with first class honours or a Master’s degree in a wood science & technology, biomaterials, forestry or related field. Candidates must have a valid driver’s licence and be willing to undertake both field and lab work.
Applicants must meet the University’s entry requirements. See https://www.canterbury.ac.nz/study/getting-started/about-our-qualifications/phds-and-doctoral-degrees for details.
Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.
Applications must include:
- A full Curriculum Vitae, INCLUDING your University transcript (i.e. list of grades).
- The names of at least two people who can act as referees.
- A statement of your research interests and when you could begin your PhD research.
- Evidence of English language proficiency.
Does the project come with funding
The available scholarship covers full university fees and a stipend of $33,000 p.a. for three years.
Final date for receiving applications
Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled
How to apply
Application to be sent to: clemens.altaner@canterbury.ac.nz
Keywords
Wood;
