PhD Opportunity in Satellite Remote Sensing for Forest Monitoring

Satellite-based monitoring of softwood productivity through optimal site-specific silviculture

About the project: The objective is to develop remote sensing methodologies and cloud-based tools utilizing freely available satellite imagery data that allow Australian softwood growers to better target silvicultural interventions to improve overall productivity and economic returns. Growers often apply a limited number of silvicultural regimes to their plantation estate depending on broad site differences including soil group or productivity. Oversimplification of silvicultural systems or inadequate site characterisation means that some sites receive insufficient silvicultural inputs while others receive significantly more resources than necessary. This can lead to poor productivity outcomes or inefficient resource use. The project will explore the ability of different remote sensing technologies to estimate tree productivity metrics in Australian softwood plantations. Models will be developed across different plantation species and environmental conditions, while reducing noise from non-target understory species. Remote sensed metrics will be used to predict the response of softwood plantations to mid-rotation fertiliser and thinning, using data from grower research trials and routine plantations.

Where you will be based:  The PhD student will carry out their research within UniSA STEM's Environmental Science Group at the Sustainable Infrastructure and Resource Management Research Centre, benefiting from a collaborative and supportive environment.

Applications close 9 January 2025.