MSc projects on
Estuarine Variability and Resilience
at the University of KwaZulu-Natal
Three MSc projects and bursaries are available to join our existing project on estuarine variability and
resilience. We seek enthusiastic and motivated students working on invertebrates (benthic and
plankton), and with an interest in broadening their data analysis skills. Understanding the temporal
variability of abiotic and biotic responses to external inputs into estuaries is necessary for an
understanding of the seemingly consistent high productivity we find in estuaries, despite the highly
dynamic and often stressful conditions. The aims of the project are to investigate the ranges of
responses of estuarine biota to changes in their environment related to freshwater quality and quantity,
the variability in their responses and their productivity and stability over time through a frequent
sampling regime. Furthermore, this dataset will be used to explore ecological theories of stability and
resilience in estuaries.
Prospective students should have an Honours degree in a biological/ecological discipline. Students with
a modelling background are equally encouraged to apply. Fieldwork will be conducted in KZN estuaries.
For more information on the project contact Dr. Ursula Scharler <scharler@ukzn.ac.za), Dr. Sarah
Bownes <bownes@ukzn.ac.za> or Dr. Hendrik Jerling <hendrik.jerling@gmail.com>.
Applications: Full CV and full academic record to be submitted electronically by 23 January 2015 to
<scharler@ukzn.ac.za>.