Project description
Background: Animals are increasingly exposed to elevated temperatures because of global climate change. Predicting how animals will cope with global climate change requires knowledge of how elevated temperatures affect physiology, behaviour, and reproductive success. This project will test the effects of elevated temperature on physiology, cognitive function (learning), and reproductive success in captive zebra finches (Taeniopygia castanotis). Project aims/outcomes: The aim of this project is to determine the effect of elevated temperatures on zebra finch cognitive function and reproductive effort. Methods: This project will involve work with captive zebra finches on the Bedford Park campus. The project will involve conducting behavioural assays and collecting morphological measurements from adult and nestling zebra finches. There is also the potential to conduct laboratory assays for students who are interesting in gaining skills to measure hormones.
Assumed knowledge
There are no prerequisites or assumed knowledge required for this project. However, the student who takes on this project should have a strong interest in animal behaviour.
Supervisors research focus
My research examines the physiological mechanisms that regulate animal behaviour. I have focused primarily on understanding how conditions experienced during development shape endocrine responses that affect behaviour and physiology across life history stages with consequences on fitness and life history strategies. I take a whole organism approach by integrating studies of animal behaviour and physiology to tackle large-scale questions that sit at the nexus of behavioural ecology, physiological ecology, and evolutionary biology. I work broadly across taxonomic groups but focus heavily on birds and lizards.
Note: You need to register interest in projects from different supervisors (not a number of projects with the one supervisor).
You must also contact each supervisor directly to discuss both the project details and your suitability to undertake the project.