Introduction to the Taronga Zoo Residency Program

The Taronga Zoo - Conservation, Wildlife and Zoo Medicine Residency/Professional Doctorate program is based within the Veterinary Services team at Taronga Wildlife Hospital and undertaken in conjunction with Murdoch University's School of Veterinary Medicine.

Program Overview

The Resident will also have the opportunity to work at additional locations as appropriate, including Taronga Western Plains Zoo. The program aims to provide the highest possible levels of health care, welfare, husbandry, species management, and exhibit design for the animals under care to enable Taronga Zoo to achieve its operational and strategic objectives.

Team and Collaboration

The team works in close collaboration with the Taronga Institute of Science and Learning and many native species breeding programs to provide ex-situ breeding health and disease monitoring, triage and treatment, and wild population health management. The veterinarians also provide expert advice in zoo and wildlife matters through consultancies, media engagement, lectures, and written material.

Focus Species

Between both zoos, the focus species include Regent Honeyeaters, Plains Wanderers, Bilby, Platypus, Western Quoll, and Koala, as well as targeted species assessed and translocated through National Parks and Wildlife.

Program Structure and Duration

The three-year residency will commence in July 2025. A merit-based selection process will be initiated in April 2025.

Eligibility and Requirements

Applicants must have:

• A veterinary degree registrable in New South Wales, Australia
• A minimum of 2 years of experience in veterinary practice
• Be a resident or citizen of Australia, or a New Zealand citizen
• A logical and evidence-based approach to clinical case investigations
• A strong academic background
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Good time-management skills
• The ability to work well in a team
• A strong commitment to the fields of zoo, wildlife, and conservation medicine

Research Focus

The residency has a strong research focus alongside clinical work, and therefore, the applicant should have previous experience in research or professional investigation.

Funding and Support

Taronga Zoo's contribution will cover the scholarship and project costs, as well as airfares, accommodation, and living allowance costs associated with conference registration and attendance. A work uniform, personal protective equipment, and a workspace will be provided by Taronga Zoo. The School of Veterinary Medicine and the Graduate Research Office (GRO) will co-fund the tax-free scholarship of $43,500 p.a. over the three-year period.

Professional Doctorate

The Professional Doctorate involves coursework delivered through Murdoch University in epidemiology and One Health and a significant research dissertation up to 60,000 words or the equivalent of 3-4 research papers.

Murdoch University

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Overview:

Murdoch University is a public university located in Perth, Western Australia. It is known for its focus on practical learning, research, and engagement with the community. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines.

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Services Offered:

Murdoch University provides a comprehensive range of services to its students, including:

Academic Support:

The university offers a variety of academic support services, such as tutoring, workshops, and online resources.

Career Services:

The Careers and Employability team assists students with career planning, job searching, and internship opportunities.

Student Support:

The university provides support services for students with disabilities, mental health concerns, and other personal challenges.

Library:

The Murdoch University Library offers a vast collection of books, journals, and online resources.

Health and Wellbeing:

The university has a range of health and wellbeing services, including a chiropractic clinic, counselling services, and a psychology clinic.

Sport and Recreation:

Murdoch University offers a variety of sporting and recreational activities, including fitness classes, team sports, and outdoor recreation.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

Murdoch University offers a vibrant and diverse campus experience. Students can expect:

A beautiful and spacious campus:

The university's campus is located in a picturesque setting, with plenty of green spaces and modern facilities.

A strong sense of community:

The university has a strong sense of community, with a variety of student clubs and societies.

Opportunities for engagement:

Murdoch University encourages students to get involved in research, community service, and other extracurricular activities.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Flexible study options:

Murdoch University offers a variety of flexible study options, including online learning, part-time study, and blended learning.

Personalised courses:

The university offers a range of personalised courses that cater to individual student needs and interests.

Career Learning Spine:

Murdoch University's Career Learning Spine helps students develop the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in their chosen careers.

World-class facilities:

The university has a range of world-class facilities, including a veterinary hospital, a media arts centre, and a state-of-the-art engineering lab.

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Academic Programs:

Murdoch University offers a wide range of academic programs, including:

Undergraduate programs:

The university offers a variety of undergraduate programs in areas such as business, law, science, engineering, and the arts.

Postgraduate programs:

Murdoch University offers a range of postgraduate programs, including master's degrees, PhDs, and other research degrees.

Research:

The university is a leading research institution, with a strong focus on areas such as food security, health futures, and sustainable development.

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Other: