Estimating soil hydraulic properties and modelling water and nutrient transport in structured Vertosols soil.

The overarching aim is to quantify and model water and solute dynamics (N, Br, P) in Vertosols under variable climatic and management conditions. Objectives:
1. Characterise soil hydraulic and retention properties in Vertosols and evaluate water dynamics across sites and depths.
2. Quantify vertical and lateral movement of N and Br under different fertiliser timings and rainfall patterns.
3. Investigate the behaviour of P in Vertosols, with a focus on movement from fertiliser bands under wetting/drying cycles.
4. Develop, calibrate, and validate HYDRUS models (1D/2D, single vs dual porosity) for multi-solute transport.
5. Synthesize experimental and modelling results to generate management recommendations for nutrient and water efficiency in Vertosols

Methodology:
1. Field data: GRDC project (soil moisture content, water dynamics, N and Br movement, bulk density)
2. Field experiments: column experiment for P movement,
3. Lab analysis: saturated soil hydraulic conductivity, water retention curves), P sorption-desorption
4. Modelling and simulations: model calibration, water dynamic, solute (N, P, Br) movements in vertosols,

Expected outcomes:
• Improved mechanistic understanding of water and nutrient transport in Vertosols (soils in Northen region).
• Validated modelling framework for N, Br, and P movement under field conditions.
• Publications in high-impact journals on solute transport modelling and fertiliser management.
• Practical recommendations for Australian grain growers to enhance nutrient use efficiency

PhD study is fully funded by the Indonesia Endowment Fund for Education (LPDP) from the Ministry of Finance, Republic of Indonesia.