Modelling of summer weeds

This GRDC-funded weed management initiative aims to build capacity in northern Australia's grain region. UQ will train three PhD students in weed science under this initiative, particularly in Queensland. This project aims to predict weed population dynamics and the impact of various management strategies using models. By integrating biological, ecological, and environmental factors, these models will help simulate weed emergence, growth, and resistance evolution. Weed modelling will support weed management by optimising control strategies, reducing herbicide reliance, and improving decision-making for sustainable and site-specific management approaches.

The candidates will join Prof. Chauhan’s Weed Research program, which currently comprises two post-docs, five PhD and three MS students. Chauhan’s lab possesses a track record of sustained research excellence, as evidenced by its high number of publications indexed in Scopus. The candidate's project is aligned with a GRDC-funded initiative, "Weed management initiative", with all research costs for the PhD covered by this project. QAAFI will provide office desks, laboratory facilities, and shade house space at Gatton. The candidate will be actively encouraged to participate in project meetings, seminars, project planning sessions, farmers' updates, and regular meetings with fellow students. QAAFI students are eligible for conference travel awards. Additionally, the candidate will travel to growers' fields periodically with the project team to meet with growers and other industry stakeholders. Furthermore, the candidate will attend project meetings with all national partners, including the funding body, GRDC.

This project is supported by the Research project scholarship.

Learn more about the Research project scholarship.

Your application will be assessed on a competitive basis.

We take into account your:

• previous academic record
• publication record
• honours and awards
• employment history

A working knowledge of principles involved in the design and conduct of lab, glasshouse and field studies and knowledge of data collection and interpretation would be of benefit to someone working on this project.

You will demonstrate academic achievement in the field/s of weed science and agronomy and the potential for scholastic success.

A background or knowledge of Australian grain production systems and the need for weed control is highly desirable.

Before you apply

Before submitting an application you should:

1. check your eligibility for a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
2. prepare your documentation
3. contact Professor Bhagirath Chauhan (b.chauhan@uq.edu.au) to discuss your interest and suitability
4. submit your application by 22 September, 2025 22 September, 2025.

When you apply

You apply for this scholarship when you submit an application for your program. You don’t need to submit a separate scholarship application.

In your application ensure that under the ‘Scholarships and collaborative study’ section you select:

• ‘My higher degree is not collaborative’
• ‘I am applying for, or have been awarded a scholarship or sponsorship'
• ‘Other’, then ‘Research Project Scholarship’ and in the ‘Name of scholarship’ field enter WEEDS-CHAUHAN.

Apply now