Funding will be made available for three years at NZ$22,000 tax-free per year (tuition costs will be covered by the project). Funding is also available for conferences and miscellaneous expenses.

The University of Canterbury, through the Natural Resources Engineering group in the Department of Civil Engineering, the Department of Geological Sciences, and the Otago Regional Council are looking for an enthusiastic research student to develop an understanding of the growth, dynamics and management of braided alluvial river deltas. New Zealand and particularly parts of Otago have alluvial river systems that are generally well supplied with transportable sediments. The sediment supply is usually strongly related to recent human occupation of the steep, geologically active, upland catchments.

The successful researcher will work with other researchers to

1. conduct field studies in the Shotover River, Clutha River/Mata-Au delta, and the Rees and Dart river deltas
2. create a laboratory based physical model to simulate sediment transport within rivers and their deltas
3. develop and apply appropriate numerical models to understand short and long term impacts of natural processes, landuse change and sediment dynamics in the river deltas.

Applicants:
The potential candidate should have a strong interest and a suitable background in sediment transport, numerical modelling, physical modelling, and geomorphology. Field work experience and GIS capabilities would be an advantage. Good organisation and communication skills are important.

Further Information
The position is scheduled to start no later than July of 2007. To submit an application, please send letter of interest, CV, and academic transcripts to Tom Cochrane.

Closing date: 15 February 2007