Closing 25 September 2025

Understanding the physiological, behavioural and genetic resistance of vertebrate pests to 1080.

Introduced pests such as feral cats, foxes and possums cause the decline and extinction of Australian and New Zealand wildlife. 1080 baiting is used to control these pest species over landscape scales and is critical for protecting many wildlife species from extinction. An exciting research partnership between Australia (UNSW, Murdoch University, Adelaide University) and New Zealand (Massey University, Lincoln University) is testing whether feral cats and foxes are developing resistance to 1080, and improving our understanding the genetic basis of 1080 sensitivity. These questions are critical to the use of 1080 and protection of threatened species. Three PhD projects are available:

BEHAVIOUR: Are cats and foxes developing behavioural resistance (avoidance) of 1080 baits? (based at Murdoch University in WA). This PhD will focus on remote field work relating to measuring differences in bait uptake and morphology in feral cats and foxes at long baited and unbaited sites in WA and SA.

PHYSIOLOGY: Are cats and foxes developing physiological resistance to 1080? (based at Adelaide University in SA). This PhD will test physiological resistance under anaesthesia in the field at long baited and unbaited sites in Australia and New Zealand. Australian field work will occur in collaboration with PhD 1 above.

GENETICS: How can we develop a genetic test for 1080 tolerance. (based at UNSW and/or Massey University in NZ). This PhD will use quantitative PCR to examine expression of genes that may be linked to toxin tolerance. Sampling will include native and introduced mammals in Australia and NZ with the goal of confirming the genetic basis of resistance and its evolution. A genetic test for 1080 tolerance would enable non-invasive testing of native and pest species to reduce non-target impacts and improve the effectiveness of pest control.

These projects offer a unique opportunity to gain skills and contribute to a dynamic trans-Tasman team addressing a key issue in conservation science.

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