Reintroduction Biology of the Eastern Chestnut Mouse and New Holland Mouse HDR Supplementary Scholarship

Australia has the highest rate of mammal extinction of any continent on the planet. This has reduced biodiversity, and compromised many important ecological processes. What is the best way to re-build depauperate mammal communities with multi-species reintroductions? What effects do multi-species reintroductions have on recipient ecosystems?

This PhD will be part of the Australian Research Council-funded Bringing Back Biodiversity project, which is experimentally restoring the Eastern Chestnut Mouse (Pseudomys gracilicaudatus) to Mulligans Flat Woodland Sanctuary, and augmenting a population of reintroduced New Holland Mouse (Pseudomys novaehollandiae). This is part of a highly successful project that has already reintroduced a number of species into this Sanctuary, such as the Eastern Bettong (Bettongia gaimardi). The aim of this project will be to investigate the reintroduction biology of the Eastern Chestnut Mouse and New Holland Mouse to inform future reintroductions. Key to this will be understanding the ecological and behavioural shifts following translocation to a novel environment. We are seeking applications from a highly qualified and motivated candidate. This is a major collaborative research project between the ACT Government, Australian National University, CSIRO and the James Cook University, and is part of the long-term Mulligans Flat - Goorooyarroo Woodland Experiment.