CSIRO (Australia's National Science Agency) 
Adelaide, Australia Project Description
Funding and duration
four year scholarship package totalling approximately $48,000 per annum tax exempt (2026 rate); four-year scholarship and research training program.
Project overview
Project title
Reducing methane emissions: The impact plant symbionts (mycorrhiza and rhizobia) on saponin production in medic under water stress.
Project description
This Project will investigate how beneficial plant-microbe interactions affect saponin levels in medic pastures under water stress conditions. By identifying optimal plant-symbiont combinations for enhancing anti-methane compounds, the research aims to inform agronomic practices. The outcome could significantly reduce livestock methane emissions, supporting climate targets and sustainable grazing in medium-low rainfall zones.
Supervisory team
University
Name of university supervisor | Matthew Denton Judith Rathjen
Name of university | Adelaide University
Email address | Matthew.Denton@adelaide.edu.au judith.rathjen@adelaide.edu.au
Faculty | Faculty of Sciences, Engineering and Technology
CSIRO
Name of CSIRO supervisor | Gupta Vadakattu
Email address | gupta.vadakattu@csiro.au
CSIRO Research Unit | Agriculture and Food
Industry
Name of industry supervisor | Julia Waite
Name of business/organisation | Meat & Livestock Australia
Email address | jwaite@mla.com.au
Further details
Primary location of student | Adelaide University, Waite Building, Floor G, Waite Road, Urrbrae SA 5064, Australia
Industry engagement component location | South Australian Research and Development Institute, 2b Hartley Grove, Waite Campus, Urrbrae SA 5064, Australia
Other locations | CSIRO Waite Campus, 40 Waite Road, Urrbrae SA 5064, Australia
Ideal student skillset | MicrobiologyPlant science
Application close date | Open until position filled
Apply | Contact Matthew Denton
