This project presents an opportunity to learn about biodiversity and evolution through genetic study of a group of birds known as the Grey Fantail complex.

This group is generally divided into two species based on appearance and behaviour: the Grey Fantail, which is widely distributed in southern, central, and northeastern Australia, and the Mangrove Grey Fantail, which is restricted to mangroves of northern Australia and southern New Guinea.

The student will use advanced molecular techniques to investigate genetic variation in this group and to compare genetic data with morphological and behavioural information, providing insight into patterns of speciation and biogeography.

The student will also become familiar with the vertebrate natural history collections of the Australian National Wildlife Collection and the use of non-genetic data in systematics and taxonomy.