In this week’s WA Agricultural Scientist Spotlight, we speak with Professor Treena Burgess, Executive Director at Murdoch University’s Harry Butler Institute.
With a career spanning decades and a strong focus on plant pathology, biosecurity, and microbiomes, Professor Burgess shares insights into her journey, research, and the future of agricultural science.
A passion for agriculture rooted in family and curiosity
Growing up on an apple orchard, Prof Burgess developed an early interest in biology, and by high school, she had already set her sights on a career in agricultural science.
“I always had an affinity for biology, and agriculture felt like a natural extension of that,” Prof Burgess said.
Her decision to pursue agricultural science was reinforced by her fascination with microbiology and mycology, which later shaped her research trajectory.
Prof Burgess’ educational journey began with an Agricultural Science degree at the University of Tasmania, where she gained a solid foundation in essential scientific disciplines.
“My coursework covered chemistry, horticulture, agronomy, plant nutrition, animal science, soil science, entomology, microbiology, and plant pathology,” Prof Burgess said.
Practical subjects such as agricultural engineering, applied statistics, and experimental design were also crucial in preparing her for a career in research.
Her honours project, completed as an overload in her fourth year, focused on enhancing essential oil production from eucalyptus – an early indication of her interest in plant sciences.
From researcher to leader
After graduating, Prof Burgess embarked on a research career that took her from the CSIRO Forestry Division in Perth to a series of academic and industry roles.
She started as an experimental scientist at CSIRO, working on the role of ectomycorrhizal fungi in plantation eucalypt growth.
Seeking to deepen her expertise, she pursued a PhD at Murdoch University, focusing on ectomycorrhizal compatibility and function.
Her postdoctoral research further expanded her expertise, taking her into fields such as mine-site restoration and tree pathology.
“I worked on Phytophthora infection in mine-site restoration and a shoot blight disease affecting pines,” Prof Burgess said.
This experience, combined with a later six-year postdoc on emerging diseases in plantation eucalypts, broadened her focus to include biosecurity, pest management, and the effects of environmental factors on plant health.
During this time, Prof Burgess also developed an interest in molecular tools for pathogen population genetics, studying how different land-use types influence disease spread.
“This work eventually led me back to agriculture,” she said.
Her research now integrates beneficial microbes, disease suppression, and soil health, reflecting a holistic approach to plant and ecosystem management.
Today, as Executive Director of the Harry Butler Institute at Murdoch University, Prof Burgess oversees a wide range of research areas.
“We work on biosecurity, urban greening, mine-site restoration, wetland conservation, and even green energy,” she said.
Managing such a diverse portfolio requires a deep understanding of multiple scientific disciplines, something her varied career has well prepared her for.
A typical week in her role involves meetings focused on project development, staff management, and financial oversight.
However, Prof Burgess remains committed to hands-on research, with current projects investigating crop microbiomes, new opportunities for the truffle industry, and sooty mould.
“One of the most rewarding aspects of my role has always been mentoring higher degree by research students,” she said.
“Helping to shape the next generation of researchers is incredibly fulfilling.”
Driving real-world impact through research
For Prof Burgess, the most satisfying aspect of her career has been applying research to solve real-world problems.
“I’ve always enjoyed the diversity of my work and the ability to make a tangible impact,” she said.
While publishing scientific papers was a major focus earlier in her career, she now prioritises stakeholder engagement and ensuring research findings are put to practical use.
One of her current projects is a global initiative to model the risks associated with Phytophthora species, a group of plant pathogens that pose significant threats to agriculture and forestry.
“We’re using a predictive Bayesian network model based on data from all known Phytophthora species and over 12,000 host-pathogen records,” Prof Burgess said.
“This model helps assess the invasiveness of both well-known and lesser-studied species, providing a valuable tool for managing future disease risks.”
Prof Burgess’ research has also had a significant impact both locally and globally.
While much of her work is specific to Western Australia’s unique environment, the broader implications – particularly in forest biosecurity and climate-related tree declines – extend far beyond.
By integrating molecular taxonomy, biosecurity measures, and environmental factors, her work has helped industries make science-based decisions that improve resilience and productivity.
Advice for future agricultural scientists
For university students and early-career scientists considering a path in agriculture, Prof Burgess suggests deciding early whether you’re more interested in plants or animals, as the career trajectories can be quite different.
She also emphasised the importance of embracing new technologies.
“Agriculture is evolving rapidly, and innovations in data science, genetics, and regenerative practices will be key to making the sector more sustainable,” she said.
Prof Burgess’ career is a testament to the power of curiosity, adaptability, and a strong scientific foundation.
As she continues to lead groundbreaking research and mentor the next generation, her impact on Western Australian agriculture – and global plant science – remains profound.
Through the WA Agricultural Scientist Spotlight series, WAARC celebrates the contributions of researchers like Treena Burgess, whose work exemplifies the dedication and innovation needed to advance agricultural science in Western Australia.
By sharing their stories, the series aims to inspire a new generation to pursue careers in this vital field, ensuring the state remains at the forefront of agricultural research and sustainability.
