Seed funding program to turn ideas into discoveries

Dr Margaret Shanafield is a hydrologist and early career researcher at Flinders University whose research is making an impact.

Around half of the earth’s river networks don’t have water in them for some or most of the year. These temporary rivers are a critical freshwater resource but are difficult to access and relatively little is known about how they function.

Dr Shanafield’s research is focused on surface water to groundwater actions. Through the measuring and modelling of local dry creek beds, her work aims to unlock the secrets of temporary rivers around the world.

“I am currently measuring and modelling what hydrologic factors lead to streamflow in arid regions, using Pedler Creek in the important wine region of McLaren Vale as an example,” said Dr Shanafield.

Dr Shanafield hopes to help the local agricultural industry understand their groundwater and explore the potential of replenishing Pedlar Creek to sustain this region. Her research will allow us to better understand Australia’s creek and river systems. Which will maximise the benefits for the state and its agricultural production but in ways that are sustainable for the long term.

Through her early career research, Dr Shanafield’s work has the potential to become a global model on how our precious resources are used to the maximum benefit for all.

Flinders wants to further support early career researchers like Dr Shanafield and has recently launched the Impact Seed Funding for Early Career Researchers program. The seed grants will provide vital funding of up to $10,000 for our recent PhD graduates ready to take the next step and carve their own research pathway.

Your support in this program will enable our talented early career researchers to begin their first independent research projects which often create a springboard to secure major grants and establish crucial collaborative partnerships.

100% of your donation will be used to fund early career researchers ready to make a positive impact on our community.

We need your help to turn ideas into discoveries. Give to our talented emerging researchers and support their promising research careers.

Early Career Researcher, Dr Margaret Shanafield (far left).