Graceful tree frog (Litoria gracilenta)

THE WEEP LAB

Using physiology to understand evolution and assist conservation efforts.

Welcome to the Wu Ecological and Evolutionary Physiology (WEEP) Lab. We use physiology to understand the ecology and evolution of animals. Our research incorporates experimental, field, and computational work to assess how species respond to environmental change, with emphasis on informing conservation practices.

Our lab focuses on answering two broad research questions:

  • How do species respond to environmental and anthropogenic change?
  • How does variation in responses scale up to broad-scale ecological and evolutionary patterns?

OUR MISSION

Our group is dedicated to advancing the scientific understanding of how animals interact with their environment and respond to changing conditions. We are committed to producing high-quality, impactful research to advance the field and inform conservation efforts. Collaboration, curiosity, and rigorous inquiry drive our work, and we strive to mentor the next generation of scientists through hands-on learning, critical thinking, and open science practices.

By bridging fundamental research with applied solutions, we aim to contribute to a deeper understanding of wildlife populations, their ecological roles, and their resilience in a rapidly changing world.

Available Projects

Join our team and contribute to cutting-edge research in ecological and evolutionary physiology.

PhD position
PhDFunded

PhD position

Predicting Meelyu adaptation to changing environments

To be advertised. For domestic applicants only.

Requirements:

  • Honours or Masters degree
  • Background in either movement ecology and physiological experiments
  • Strong analytical and quantitative skills
$37,000 stipend + project cost support
Opens: 1 July 2026
Deadline: 31 October 2026

Contact:

PhD position
PhDFunded

PhD position

Bat movement and wind energy impact mitigation

We are seeking a PhD candidate for a funded research program supporting proposed wind farm developments in the Pilbara, Western Australia. The PhD project will investigate bat movement ecology using cutting-edge radar and acoustic monitoring technologies.

Requirements:

  • Honours or Masters degree with strong background in movement ecology
  • Experience in spatial analysis and automated bat ID via acoustics
RTP scholarship + project costs support
Opens: 1 July 2026
Deadline: 31 October 2026

Contact:

Prof Trish Fleming: t.fleming@murdoch.edu.au