Alumni profile search result

What did you study at La Trobe?

I did a Bachelor of Agricultural Science with honours from 2000-2003, then went on to do a PhD with the Department of Botany at La Trobe based at the Victorian AgriBiosciences Centre (DPI-Bundoora).

What did you receive your recent award for? How much time and effort went into this research?

I received the inaugural Aristotle Award for Education for for peer-reviewed manuscripts and impact of my PhD studies. This work was conducted over 4 years and was on the following research topic: The molecular genetic analysis of the perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne) - crown rust (Puccinia coronata f.sp. lolii) interaction.

How did you come to studying biosciences?

I Approached David Bradley the business manager for the Plant Biotechnology in 2004 for 3 weeks work experience and he offered me a job as a replacement for a guy who abandoned his PhD. Initially I worked as a research assistant for 6 months then started my PhD in the biosciences area.

Where are you currently working and in what capcity?

I am currently working as a post doctoral research scientist at La Trobe University working for Professor Marilyn Anderson and Dr Kim Plummer. The project we are working on is an ARC discovery grant on the mechanisms of antifungal activity of the floral defensin NaD1. Another part of my work involves doing research for the plant biotechnology company Hexima.

What has been the greatest challenge you have faced in your work?

Completing my PhD, working with different pathogens and optimising new techniques in molecular biology.

What are your aims and aspirations in your work?

To fulfil the overall aims of the ARC grant and determine the antifungal mechanism of NaD1 and its interaction with the fungal cell wall. To be involved in the research of novel antimicrobial molecules and resistance mechanisms in major crop species against rust pathogens with the overall aim of providing durable field resistance. To conduct research with impact for world agriculture and produce high quality scientific publications

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

Being involved in and coordinating multiple projects on improving durable resistance to rust pathogens on the world’s economically important cereal crops. Hope to still be working at LaTrobe University, based on the expertise and skill and facilities available to conduct world class research.

What do you do to wind down at the end of a hard day?

Usually head to cricket training or head out to dinner at a favourite restaurant or sometimes have a quiet beer.

What is your lasting impression of La Trobe?

Beautiful campus (a feeling removed from the hustle n bustle of city life = relaxing atmosphere), friendly people, strong research capabilities and a great learning environment (fond memories and a feeling of proudness to be strongly involved with La Trobe University). Too many funny stories too mention.