On Friday, 29 November we hosted the inaugural WA Agricultural Research Collaboration (WAARC) PhD Showcase at The Hub, Bentley Technology Park – and what a day it was!
With more than 60 attendees in the room, the energy was inspiring as students, the WAARC team, academics and industry stakeholders connected, shared insights, and celebrated the incredible work of our postgraduate researchers. Many stayed long after the event officially wrapped up, deep in conversation – a testament to the vibrant and supportive community we’re building!
Congratulations to WAARC Capacity Building and Extension Program Lead Jenny Crisp, for her outstanding efforts in spearheading our Postgraduate Research Scholarship Program and organising the PhD Showcase.
The event shone a spotlight on the professional development opportunities provided by the program, incuding presentation and networking skills, and enhancing industry connections to help support their development as early career researchers. It’s clear this initiative is cultivating not just academic excellence but also a strong foundation for impactful careers in agriculture.
Those in the room had the privilege of hearing from two accomplished agricultural scientists who shared insights on how thir PhDs have shaped their careers in ag research. Our guest speakers included InterGrain Chief Operations Officer Dr Daniel Mullan and Craig Mostyn Group Biosecurity, Animal Welfare and Research Manager Dr Megan Trezona.
They shared their personal journeys and the unique opportunities a PhD has unlocked in their professional lives, providing attendees with valuable perspectives on the paths a PhD can open in agriculture.
We were also joined by Kylie Blackwell, a PhD candidate and Gold Technology Group Strategic Program Lead within the WA School of Mines: Minerals, Energy and Chemical Engineering. Kylie discussed how her postgraduate program has been pivotal in advancing her career in minerals research.
Our sincere thanks to these three professionals, for dedicating their time to connect with and inspire the next generation of researchers in agriculture and beyond.
Following our guest speakers, morning tea and networking, the inaugural cohort of WAARC postgraduate scholarship students each delivered 5-minute presentations, sharing how they envisioned their research would benefit the industry. The talented students not only highlighted their interesting work but also built vital skills for future success and gained visibility, insights and connections.
We’re excited to see the ripple effects of our PhD students’ research presentations in the years to come, and their impactful contributions to Western Australia’s agrifood industry and beyond.
