BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//Waite Campus - ECPv6.15.11//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-WR-CALNAME:Waite Campus X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://www.thewaite.org X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Waite Campus REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:Australia/Adelaide BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+1030 TZOFFSETTO:+0930 TZNAME:ACST DTSTART:20240406T163000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+0930 TZOFFSETTO:+1030 TZNAME:ACDT DTSTART:20241005T163000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+1030 TZOFFSETTO:+0930 TZNAME:ACST DTSTART:20250405T163000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+0930 TZOFFSETTO:+1030 TZNAME:ACDT DTSTART:20251004T163000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+1030 TZOFFSETTO:+0930 TZNAME:ACST DTSTART:20260404T163000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+0930 TZOFFSETTO:+1030 TZNAME:ACDT DTSTART:20261003T163000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+1030 TZOFFSETTO:+0930 TZNAME:ACST DTSTART:20270403T163000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+0930 TZOFFSETTO:+1030 TZNAME:ACDT DTSTART:20271002T163000 END:DAYLIGHT END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Adelaide:20261015T100000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Adelaide:20261015T110000 DTSTAMP:20261023T130626 CREATED:20260730T083724Z LAST-MODIFIED:20261006T115517Z UID:31124-1792058400-1792062000@www.thewaite.org SUMMARY:WRI Seminar Series: Dr Nari Williams\, Forestry Centre of Excellence\, Adelaide University DESCRIPTION:Abstract: TBA \nBio: As a plant pathologist\, I specialise in forest and tree health\, with a focus on biosecurity\, ecology\, epidemiology\, and the management of plant pathogens. My research has primarily centred on diseases in native and plantation forests\, where I have made significant contributions to biosecurity protocols\, integrated pest management strategies\, plant ecophysiology\, resistance breeding programs\, and molecular plant pathology. I place a strong emphasis on collaboration and interdisciplinary research\, and actively seek opportunities to integrate emerging technologies and insights from other scientific fields. Driven by a deep commitment to forest health\, I am dedicated to ensuring that my research delivers practical\, on-ground outcomes—informing management practices and policies that safeguard forest assets and critical ecosystems. URL:https://www.thewaite.org/event/wri-seminar-series-dr-nari-wilson-forestry-centre-of-excellence-adelaide-university/ LOCATION:Plant Research Centre Auditorium\, South Australia\, Australia CATEGORIES:WRI END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Adelaide:20261008T100000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Adelaide:20261008T110000 DTSTAMP:20261023T130626 CREATED:20260730T082530Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260730T083852Z UID:31115-1791453600-1791457200@www.thewaite.org SUMMARY:WRI Seminar Series: Prof Mark Tester\, KAUST\, Saudi Arabia DESCRIPTION:Professor Mark Tester\, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology\n  \nDate: Thursday\, 08 October; 10-11 am\,  SARDI Auditorium \nTitle: TBA \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Abstract: TBA \nBio: Mark Tester is a Professor of Plant Science at KAUST\, Chair of the Center of Excellence for Sustainable Food Security and co-Founder of RedSea LLC (now iyris). In 2019\, he was Head of the Food Sector at NEOM. Prior to joining KAUST in February 2013\, he was an ARC Federation Fellow and Professor of Plant Physiology at the University of Adelaide\, Australia\, where he established The Plant Accelerator. Previously\, he was a Senior Lecturer at the University of Cambridge\, U.K.\, where he also received his Ph.D. in 1988. Professor Tester is now focused on using plant science in combination with other technologies to increase sustainability of food production.  \nProfessor Tester leads a research program on salinity tolerance in plants\, and in delivering commercially the outcomes of that research in his private company\, founded as Red Sea Farms (now iyris). His aspiration is to unlock seawater by developing a new economically viable agricultural system where salt-tolerant crops are irrigated with partially desalinized seawater or brackish groundwater. A particular strength of Professor Tester’s research program is the integration of genetics and genomics with a breadth of physiological approaches to enable novel gene discovery. In the process of delivering his research\, Professor Tester developed a method for creating new types of hybrid allotetraploid rootstocks that enable the rapid stacking of multiple tolerance traits in crop plants. Patents covering this were published in 2024. The impacts of these rootstocks on yield in the field are considerable and his materials are now being adopted by some of the largest agricultural companies in the world. More recently\, he has been able to support others in the delivery of their discoveries through his position as Director of the Center of Excellence for Sustainable Food Security.  URL:https://www.thewaite.org/event/wri-seminar-series-prof-mark-tester-kaust-saudi-arabia/ LOCATION:Plant Research Centre Auditorium\, South Australia\, Australia CATEGORIES:Visiting Speaker Seminars,WRI END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Adelaide:20261001T100000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Adelaide:20261001T110000 DTSTAMP:20261023T130626 CREATED:20260907T112321Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260907T112323Z UID:31418-1790848800-1790852400@www.thewaite.org SUMMARY:Australian Agricultural and Resource Economics Society (AARES SA Branch) and the WRI seminar DESCRIPTION:The shifting agricultural input supply\, price risk and logistics landscape: implications for crop production systems and research priorities \nPanellists: Grant Bailey (AgProcure); Kenton Porker (CSIRO); Grant Roberts (Elders) \nModerator: Rick Llewellyn (CSIRO) \nThree snapshot presentations followed by panel discussion. \nDate: Thursday 01 Oct\, 10 am-11am\, SARDI Plant Research Centre Auditorium \nFollowed by morning tea sponsored by AARES \nAccessible online via Adelaide University zoom \nPresented by Australian Agricultural and Resource Economics Society (AARES SA Branch) and the Waite Research Institute \nGrant Bailey \nGrant is the owner and manager of AgProcure which specialises in input procurement and efficiencies\, working with around 250 farms across Australia and 55 of our largest primary producers. Grant has a business degree from Flinders University and specialises in the data and economic analysis for agricultural inputs relating to farm input supply and strategy. \nGrant Roberts \nGrant Roberts has a PhD from the University of Adelaide and more recent business training from the Yale School of Management. He has been Chief Agronomist Asia for global fertiliser giant Yara\, Director of Global Modern Agriculture for Philip Morris international and has most recently returned to Australia for his current role with Elders. \nKenton Porker \nKenton is a farming systems researcher with expertise in the integration of genetics\, management and environment focusing on crop phenology and adaptation. He has previously led teams at SARDI SA\, and was the research director for Field Applied Research Australia before joining CSIRO where he currently leads collaborative research in profitable yield frontiers. \nRick Llewellyn \nRick is a Senior Principal Research Scientist with CSIRO. He has a PhD in agricultural economics from the University of Western Australia and his research bridges farming systems research\, agricultural economics and technology adoption. He current co-leads the GRDC national risk management initiative RiskWi$e. \n  \n  URL:https://www.thewaite.org/event/australian-agricultural-and-resource-economics-society-aares-sa-branch-and-the-wri-seminar/ LOCATION:Plant Research Centre Auditorium\, South Australia\, Australia CATEGORIES:WRI END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Adelaide:20260924T100000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Adelaide:20260924T110000 DTSTAMP:20261023T130626 CREATED:20260714T064312Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260714T064314Z UID:31006-1790244000-1790247600@www.thewaite.org SUMMARY:WRI Seminar Series: Dr David G. Schmale III\, Fulbright AUKUS Scholar; Professor and Director\, Translational Plant Sciences Center Virginia Tech University DESCRIPTION:Dr David G. Schmale III\, Ph.D.\, Fulbright AUKUS Scholar\, Professor and Director\, Translational Plant Sciences Center\, Virginia Tech University\n \nDate: Thursday\, 24 September 10-11 am\,  SARDI Auditorium \nTitle: Atmospheric Incursions of Plant Pathogens: From Leaf Surfaces to Continental Transport \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Abstract: The atmospheric transport of plant pathogens unfolds across a continuum of scales\, linking microscale release processes at leaf surfaces to long-distance movement across regions and continents. Together\, these processes underpin atmospheric incursions\, where pathogens cross borders unannounced and often undetected. At the smallest scale\, dispersal begins with liberation from surfaces and escape through the laminar boundary layer. High-speed imaging reveals that raindrop impacts generate vortex-like flows that entrain leaf rust spores into the air\, while jumping droplet condensation and cascading “billiard ball” interactions amplify spore release across leaf surfaces. At the farm scale\, transport is governed by turbulent flow within the surface boundary layer\, shaping dispersal across agricultural landscapes. Release–recapture studies show how fungal spores move from field-scale sources under natural conditions\, while work on genetically engineered switchgrass demonstrates how pollen disperses beyond field boundaries\, raising challenges for disease management and gene flow. At regional and continental scales\, pathogens become entrained in the planetary boundary layer and free atmosphere\, where structured airflows organize movement over hundreds to thousands of kilometers. These highways in the sky connect distant regions through coherent transport pathways\, including atmospheric bridges linking Australia and New Zealand. Advances in sensing and sampling are enabling new insights into pathogen movement across scales. Integrating these observations with atmospheric transport models provides a pathway toward predictive frameworks capable of detecting\, forecasting\, and responding to biological threats before they arrive. \nBio: Dr. David Schmale is a Professor and Director of the Translational Plant Sciences Center at Virginia Tech. He received his B.S. from the University of California\, Davis\, and his Ph.D. from Cornell University. Dr. Schmale joined the former Department of Plant Pathology\, Physiology\, and Weed Science as an Assistant Professor in 2006\, was promoted to Associate Professor in 2011\, and to Full Professor in 2016. He was named one of Popular Science’s Brilliant Ten in 2013\, and his work was featured in Scientific American in 2017. That article was later selected for the “Top 21 Wild Ideas in Science that Just Might Save the Planet and Us.” Dr. Schmale is the recipient of the 2026-2027 Fulbright U.S. Scholar Australia-United Kingdom-United States (AUKUS) Award. This is his second Fulbright\, following a previous Fulbright in New Zealand in 2020. Working with five host institutions across Australia and the United Kingdom\, he is collaborating with researchers to improve the prediction\, detection\, and response to atmospheric incursions of invasive crop threats using advances in aerobiology\, geospatial sensing\, genomics\, and atmospheric modeling. Dr. Schmale has secured over 100 grants from agencies including NSF\, USDA\, NASA\, and DARPA totaling more than $24 million\, with approximately $10 million supporting his research program. His scholarly output includes over 120 peer-reviewed manuscripts\, one Annual Review article\, two book chapters\, and three papers in The Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS). He has delivered invited lectures and keynote addresses in 13 countries outside the United States\, including Australia\, Austria\, Brazil\, the Czech Republic\, England\, France\, Germany\, Ireland\, Italy\, the Netherlands (Saba Island)\, New Zealand\, Scotland\, and Spain. \nLab Website: https://www.schmalelab.spes.vt.edu/ \nEmail: dschmale@vt.edu \nLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dschmale/ \nInstagram: @SchmaleLab \n  \nhttps://adelaide.zoom.us/j/88324941961?pwd=iBEvCU8wU2bKbEa3JaDzLIDGOZtEkj.1 \nWebinar ID: 883 2494 1961\, Passcode:429141 \n  \nFollowed by morning tea URL:https://www.thewaite.org/event/wri-seminar-series-dr-david-g-schmale-iii-fulbright-aukus-scholar-professor-and-director-translational-plant-sciences-center-virginia-tech-university/ LOCATION:Plant Research Centre Auditorium\, South Australia\, Australia CATEGORIES:SARDI,Visiting Speaker Seminars,WRI END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Adelaide:20260922T100000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Adelaide:20260922T110000 DTSTAMP:20261023T130626 CREATED:20260824T111441Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260824T111536Z UID:31311-1790071200-1790074800@www.thewaite.org SUMMARY:Seminar: Eight Years in the Roots of Wheat: Long-Term Selection of Microbial Communities Driven by the Plant and Soil Water DESCRIPTION:Dr. Timothy Paulitz\n\n\n\nResearch Plant Pathologist – USDA-ARS Wheat Health\, Genetics and Quality Research Unit; Pullman\, Washington \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Date: Tuesday\, 22 September; 10-11 am\,  SARDI Auditorium \nTitle: Eight Years in the Roots of Wheat: Long- Term Selection of Microbial Communities Driven by the Plant and Soil Water \nAbstract: In this seminar\, I will summarize a 50 year journey of our research group in understanding the mechanisms of disease suppression and present advances. The USDA-ARS unit in Pullman was originally called the Root Disease and Biological Control Research Unit\, led by R. James Cook starting in the late 1970s.  This group did pioneering work on take- all suppressive soils and elucidating the molecular\, genetics and biochemical mechanisms of suppressive Pseudomonas spp. that produced antifungal metabolites phenazine and phloroglucinol. But over the last 20 years\, we have gained a greater insight into the ecology of these bacteria in the dryland Pacific Northwest. This led to a long-term trial at Lind\, WA\, a low rainfall wheat-fallow zone\, where we monitored the microbiome of wheat roots for 8 years in dryland and irrigated plots.  We sampled multiple times in the season and looked at the bacterial microbiome with 16S amplicon sequencing in the bulk soil\, rhizosphere and root.  We found that the abundance of individual bacteria were modulated by soil moisture\, plant growth stage & length of wheat monoculture. Taxa exhibited seasonal dynamics and periodicity\, and population trends were reproducible across multiple years. Over the 8-year study\, certain genera became more prevalent in the root under irrigated or dryland conditions. One discovery was the prevalence of actinobacteria in the root.  Over three years\, we isolated a collection of over 1\,000 actinobacteria.  The collection was dominated by Streptomyces\, Kribbella\, Amycolatopis and Promicromonospora. We did genomic sequencing and functional analysis of a subset\, and many showed antifungal activity and growth promotion.  We are presently looking at the ability of selected strains to protect wheat and alfalfa against water stress. \nBio: In this seminar\, I will summarize a 50 year journey of our research group in understanding the mechanisms of disease suppression and present advances. The USDA-ARS unit in Pullman was originally called the Root Disease and Biological Control Research Unit\, led by R. James Cook starting in the late 1970s.  This group did pioneering work on take- all suppressive soils and elucidating the molecular\, genetics and biochemical mechanisms of suppressive Pseudomonas spp. that produced antifungal metabolites phenazine and phloroglucinol. But over the last 20 years\, we have gained a greater insight into the ecology of these bacteria in the dryland Pacific Northwest. This led to a long-term trial at Lind\, WA\, a low rainfall wheat-fallow zone\, where we monitored the microbiome of wheat roots for 8 years in dryland and irrigated plots.  We sampled multiple times in the season and looked at the bacterial microbiome with 16S amplicon sequencing in the bulk soil\, rhizosphere and root.  We found that the abundance of individual bacteria were modulated by soil moisture\, plant growth stage & length of wheat monoculture. Taxa exhibited seasonal dynamics and periodicity\, and population trends were reproducible across multiple years. Over the 8-year study\, certain genera became more prevalent in the root under irrigated or dryland conditions. One discovery was the prevalence of actinobacteria in the root.  Over three years\, we isolated a collection of over 1\,000 actinobacteria.  The collection was dominated by Streptomyces\, Kribbella\, Amycolatopis and Promicromonospora. We did genomic sequencing and functional analysis of a subset\, and many showed antifungal activity and growth promotion.  We are presently looking at the ability of selected strains to protect wheat and alfalfa against water stress. URL:https://www.thewaite.org/event/seminar-eight-years-in-the-roots-of-wheat-long-term-selection-of-microbial-communities-driven-by-the-plant-and-soil-water/ LOCATION:Plant Research Centre Auditorium\, South Australia\, Australia CATEGORIES:Visiting Speaker Seminars,WRI END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Adelaide:20260908T110000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Adelaide:20260908T120000 DTSTAMP:20261023T130626 CREATED:20260824T112717Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260824T114952Z UID:31323-1788865200-1788868800@www.thewaite.org SUMMARY:Research Seminar: Oilseed Breeding\, Food Science and Product Development in Pakistan DESCRIPTION:Date: Tuesday\, 08 September; 11-12\,  SARDI Auditorium \nResearch Seminar: Oilseed Breeding\, Food Science and Product Development in Pakistan \nPresenters: \n\nDr Hafiz Saad Bin Mustafa\, Oilseeds Research Institute\, Ayub Agricultural Research Institute (AARI)\, Faisalabad\, Pakistan\nDr Zaheer Ahmed\, Professor of Plant Breeding and Genetics\, University of Agriculture\, Faisalabad (UAF)\, Pakistan\nDr Ahmad Din\, National Institute of Food Science & Technology (NIFSAT)\, University of Agriculture\, Faisalabad (UAF)\, Pakistan\n\nDate: Tuesday\, 8 September\, 11:00 amVenue: SARDI Plant Research Centre Auditorium \nAbout the seminar:This seminar will feature three presentations (15 min each) providing snapshots of the research programs led by these scientists at AARI and the University of Agriculture Faisalabad (UAF). The presentations will cover a broad range of topics\, from the genetics and breeding of oilseed crops to food additives\, processing and product development in Pakistan. \n \n \n \n \n \n Dr Hafiz Saad Bin Mustafa \nAbstract: Ayub Agricultural Research Institute (AARI)\, Faisalabad\, is Pakistan’s largest multidisciplinary agricultural research organization\, comprising 26 research institutes and 85 research stations across diverse agro-ecological zones. AARI conducts research on more than 50 field crops\, vegetables\, fruits\, and allied agricultural disciplines\, with a strong focus on developing climate-resilient\, high-yielding\, and resource-efficient production technologies. Since its establishment\, the institute has developed more than 714 crop varieties\, many of which are widely cultivated across Pakistan\, making a significant contribution to national food security\, agricultural productivity\, and sustainable development. This presentation highlights AARI’s research portfolio\, major achievements in crop improvement\, biotechnology\, natural resource management\, and agricultural innovation\, while outlining opportunities for international collaboration in germplasm exchange\, joint research\, capacity building\, student and scientist exchange\, and technology transfer. The presentation aims to foster long-term strategic partnerships between AARI and Australian universities and research organizations to address shared agricultural challenges under changing climatic conditions. \nBiography: Hafiz Saad Bin Mustafa is a Principal Scientist (Plant Breeding & Genetics) at the Oilseeds Research Institute\, Ayub Agricultural Research Institute (AARI)\, Faisalabad\, Pakistan. He has over 15 years of experience in oilseed crop improvement\, specializing in canola\, mustard\, soybean\, sesame\, sunflower\, linseed\, and camelina. His research focuses on developing climate-resilient\, high-yielding\, and stress-tolerant cultivars. He has contributed to the development of 22 improved oilseed varieties\, authored more than 75 scientific publications\, and successfully led and participated in several nationally funded research projects. He has established research collaborations with leading institutions in Australia\, China\, Indonesia\, Iran\, the Middle East\, and Central Asia\, promoting germplasm exchange\, capacity building\, and joint agricultural research. He currently leads soybean improvement and diversification research at AARI\, with particular emphasis on climate adaptation and enhancing Pakistan’s edible oil security. He is also convener of AARI External Linkages Cell. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dr Zaheer Ahmed \nAbstract: Dr. Zaheer Ahmed is Professor of Plant Breeding and Genetics and Biotechnology Chair at the US-Pakistan Center for Advanced Studies in Agriculture and Food Security (CAS-AFS)\, University of Agriculture\, Faisalabad\, Pakistan\, and Scientific Director of the Soybean Genetics and Seed Supply Chain Center (SGSSCC). His research integrates plant breeding\, molecular genetics\, biotechnology\, genome editing\, and modern breeding technologies to develop climate-resilient\, high-yielding\, and widely adapted crop germplasm. \nDr. Ahmed leads a comprehensive soybean improvement program in Pakistan and has screened\, characterized\, and evaluated more than 5\,000 soybean accessions across 17 locations\, leading to the development of heat-tolerant (>45°C)\, salinity- and drought-tolerant\, short-duration\, determinate\, photoperiod-insensitive\, and high-yielding germplasm. His program has produced multiple registered soybean lines\, with elite materials progressing through national yield trials\, while supporting soybean expansion through farmer demonstrations\, seed-system development\, farmer–industry linkages\, and policy engagement. \nHis broader expertise encompasses conventional and molecular breeding\, CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing\, genomic selection\, functional genomics\, bioinformatics\, germplasm conservation\, and climate-smart agriculture. He is also developing GM and genome-edited germplasm in soybean\, potato\, tomato\, and chili. \nDr. Ahmed received his Ph.D. in Molecular and Cellular Biology from the University of Guelph\, Canada\, followed by an NSERC-funded postdoctoral fellowship at Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada. He has extensive academic\, research\, technology-development\, and international collaboration experience and is a member of the Missouri Soybean Center at the University of Missouri. His achievements include the Green Technology Award (2025)\, numerous peer-reviewed scientific publications\, and the development of innovative crop germplasm and breeding technologies. \n \n \n \n \n \n Dr Ahmad Din \nAbstract: Some introductions of Dr. Ahmad Din and the National Institute of Food Science & Technology (NIFSAT)\, University of Agriculture Faisalabad (UAF)\, Pakistan including international linkages. The ongoing research projects and completed R&D work as key achievements on food value addition\, postharvest management\, food processing\, product development\, and the translation of research into practical applications (commercialization) for Pakistan’s food sector. Contribution of Dr. Ahmad Din for the supervision and mentoring of MPhil and PhD scholars\, facilitating research on innovative food products\, processing technologies\, nutritional quality\, functional ingredients\, and value-added food systems. Looking ahead\, significant opportunities exist for collaborative research with national and international universities\, research organizations\, food industries\, and development partners in areas including advanced postharvest technologies\, sustainable processing\, functional foods\, food loss reduction\, commercialization\, and joint postgraduate research. International collaboration\, including potential partnerships with related stakeholders\, for promotion of joint publications\, technology development\, researcher mobility\, student training\, and long-term academic–industry partnerships. \nKeywords: Fruits and Vegetables; Value Addition Projects; Postharvest Technology; MPhil & PhD Students    Projects; Future Collaboration Opportunities URL:https://www.thewaite.org/event/research-seminar-oilseed-breeding-food-science-and-product-development-in-pakistan/ LOCATION:Plant Research Centre Auditorium\, South Australia\, Australia CATEGORIES:Visiting Speaker Seminars,WRI END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Adelaide:20260903T100000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Adelaide:20260903T110000 DTSTAMP:20261023T130626 CREATED:20260728T141232Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260728T141458Z UID:31090-1788429600-1788433200@www.thewaite.org SUMMARY:WRI Seminar Series: Professor Kerry Wilkinson\, SAFW\, Adelaide University DESCRIPTION:Professor Kerry Wilkinson\, SAFW\, Adelaide University\n \nDate: Thursday\, 03 September; 10-11 am\,  SARDI Auditorium \nTitle: Waiter\, there’s a black soldier fly in my wine! \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Abstract: Professor Kerry Wilkinson is an engaging wine educator and a world-renowned wine scientist. For nearly two decades\, she has led a multi-disciplinary program of research on ‘smoke taint’\, building the wine industry’s capacity to predict\, mitigate and respond to risk associated with vineyard smoke exposure. As an ARC Industry Fellow\, she explores winemaking applications of membrane filtration\, but she also leads insect-related research\, concerning consumer acceptance of insects as food\, feed and pet food. Her WRI seminar will present recent findings from these three key programs of research.    \nBio: Professor Kerry Wilkinson holds several roles at Adelaide University. As Professor of Oenology\, she leads a program of research spanning projects concerning the chemistry of grapes and wine: fromOvercoming the impacts of vineyard exposure to smoketoUnlocking the potential for winemaking applications of membrane filtration(with funding from the Australian Research Council’s Linkage and Industry Fellowship schemes\, Wine Australia and industry). As an Academic Lead\, she helps establish research initiatives such as theAdvancement of Australian Lifestyle Wines(an industry-led CRC Project to innovate the production and marketing of no-and low-alcohol (NOLO) wines)\, theAgriFutures Insect Industry Program of Research(targeted RD&E activities to foster the sustainable growth of the emerging Australia insect industry)\, and theARC Training Centre for Innovative Wine Production(a research program co-designed with industry to provide integrated solutions to new and old winemaking challenges). Professor Wilkinson welcomes enquiries from industry\, academia\, or prospective research staff or students (Honours\, Masters and PhD) who are interested in the research programs detailed below.   \nFollowed by morning tea \nhttps://adelaide.zoom.us/j/88324941961?pwd=iBEvCU8wU2bKbEa3JaDzLIDGOZtEkj.1 \nWebinar ID: 883 2494 1961\, Passcode:429141 URL:https://www.thewaite.org/event/wri-seminar-series-professor-kerry-wilkinson-safw-adelaide-university/ LOCATION:Plant Research Centre Auditorium\, South Australia\, Australia CATEGORIES:WRI END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Adelaide:20260827T163000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Adelaide:20260827T183000 DTSTAMP:20261023T130626 CREATED:20260728T130734Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260803T074059Z UID:31062-1787848200-1787855400@www.thewaite.org SUMMARY:APBA Networking Event: Cultivating Connections in Plant Breeding DESCRIPTION:Registration is free\, however please register your attendance by 20 August 2026 using the link below to assist with catering arrangements. \n Limited Spots Available! Register with the QR code above! \nThe Australian Plant Breeding Academy (APBA) would like to invite you to our upcoming networking event\, Cultivating Connections in Plant Breeding. \nThis event is designed to connect members of the plant breeding community\, including students\, researchers\, and professionals working across academia\, government\, and industry. The evening will feature a panel discussion followed by a networking session\, providing an opportunity to learn about career pathways\, current challenges and opportunities in plant breeding\, and build connections within the industry. \nWhat to Expect \n\nInsights from an experienced panel representing industry\, universities\, and government research organisations\nDiscussion of career journeys\, emerging opportunities\, and the future of plant breeding\nOpportunities to ask questions and gain advice from established professionals\nNetworking with students\, researchers\, and industry representatives\n\nWho Should Attend? \n\nUndergraduate and postgraduate students\nEarly-career and established researchers\nPlant breeding and agricultural industry professionals\nAnyone interested in careers\, innovation\, and collaboration in plant breeding URL:https://www.thewaite.org/event/apba-networking-event-cultivating-connections-in-plant-breeding/ LOCATION:Auditorium\, Plant Research Centre\, 2b Hartley Grove\, Urrbrae\, South Australia\, 5064\, Australia CATEGORIES:Training Opportunities,Visiting Speaker Seminars,WRI END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Adelaide:20260820T100000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Adelaide:20260820T110000 DTSTAMP:20261023T130626 CREATED:20260730T073324Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260730T073349Z UID:31105-1787220000-1787223600@www.thewaite.org SUMMARY:WRI Seminar Series: Prof Jenny Mortimer\, Deputy Director of the WRI; SAFW\, Adelaide University DESCRIPTION:Professor Jenny Mortimer\, Deputy Director of the WRI; SAFW\, Adelaide University\n \nDate: Thursday\, 20 August; 10-11 am\,  SARDI Auditorium \nTitle: Sweet green tales: biosynthesis and engineering of plant complex \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Abstract: Plant glycosylation is a highly complex and essential biological process\, yet it is still poorly understood. From glycan modifications of proteins and metabolites to the structural complexities of cell wall polysaccharides\, these shape how plants grow and respond to the environment. My research has focused on understanding how these complex glycans are formed\, how their structure relates to their function\, and how we can harness them to support a transition away from fossil-fuel based technologies and support long distance space exploration. \nHere\, I will highlight our work in identifying key enzymes involved in cell wall biosynthesis\, and our progress in linking polysaccharide structure to function. I will explore how we are engineering these glycans to enhance biomass traits for biorefinery applications\, extending their utility beyond serving as a carbon source for microbial conversion to a broader range of sustainable uses. I will also discuss new methods we have developed for interrogating cell wall fine- and macro- structure\, including lignin analysis Finally\, I will discuss how understanding the regulation of plant cell wall biosynthesis is important when growing plants in a controlled environment\, whether in a vertical farm on earth\, or on the lunar surface. \nBio: Jenny Mortimer is Professor of Plant Synthetic Biology in the School of Agriculture\, Food and Wine at Adelaide University (AU)\, where she is also Deputy Director of the AU Waite Research Institute. She holds an Affiliate Staff Scientist position at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory\, USA\, where she is Director of Plant Systems Biology at the US Department of Energy Joint BioEnergy Center (JBEI). Her team’s research centres on understanding and manipulating plant cell metabolism\, particularly complex glycosylation and the cell wall\, to develop the tools\, knowledge and crops that underpin a sustainable bioeconomy. \nShe holds several senior roles in research consortia\, including as Chief Investigator and AU node lead for the Australian Research Council (ARC) Centre of Excellence in Plants for Space (P4S). P4S is an interdisciplinary\, seven-year centre developing plants to support long-distance space exploration\, alongside closed-environment agriculture and synthetic biology driven biomanufacturing on Earth. She is also part of the team who have established the Adelaide node of Plant Synthetic Biology Australia\, a new NCRIS investment\, here at the Waite.  \nFollowed by morning tea \nhttps://adelaide.zoom.us/j/88324941961?pwd=iBEvCU8wU2bKbEa3JaDzLIDGOZtEkj.1 \nWebinar ID: 883 2494 1961\, Passcode:429141 URL:https://www.thewaite.org/event/wri-seminar-series-prof-jenny-mortimer-deputy-director-of-the-wri-safw-adelaide-university/ LOCATION:Plant Research Centre Auditorium\, South Australia\, Australia CATEGORIES:WRI END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Adelaide:20260806T100000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Adelaide:20260806T110000 DTSTAMP:20261023T130626 CREATED:20260629T074501Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260629T074708Z UID:30871-1786010400-1786014000@www.thewaite.org SUMMARY:WRI Seminar Series: Professor Zhong-Hua Chen\, SAFW\, Adelaide University DESCRIPTION:Professor Zhong-Hua Chen\, SAFW\, Adelaide University\n \nDate: Thursday\, 06 August 10-11 am\,  SARDI Auditorium \nTitle: Genome Evolution and Functional Analysis of Abiotic Stress Response in Ferns \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Abstract: TBA \nBio: Zhong-Hua Chen is Professor in Plant Physiology at School of Agriculture\, Food and Wine\, Waite Research Institute\, Adelaide University. He is Deputy Program 2 Leader of CRC Future Food Systems and Education & Training Director of the National Vegetable Protected Cropping Centre. Professor Chen obtained his Bachelor of Agriculture from Zhejiang University in 2002 and his PhD from University of Tasmania in 2008. Subsequently\, he conducted postdoctoral research at University of Glasgow in the UK\, and served as a Research Lecturer\, Senior Lecturer\, Associate Professor\, and Professor at Western Sydney University. Professor Chen’s research primarily focuses on the mechanisms of plant abiotic stress\, ion channel regulation\, genome evolution\, and greenhouse science and technology. He has received many awards\, including the Minister for Agriculture Award (2013)\, ARC DECRA (2014)\, and ARC Future Fellowship (2021). He was also named a Clarivate Highly Cited Researcher in 2023 and 2024. Since 2005\, he has published over 200 papers in journals such as the Nature series\, PNAS\, and Molecular Plant\, with a total of over 17\,000 citations and an h-index of 72. Professor Chen has secured research funding from ARC\, Hort Innovation\, GRDC\, CRC and industry partners.  He serves as a reviewer for funding bodies across 14 developed countries and a peer reviewer for 130 SCI journals. Apart from well-funded research in grains and vegetables\, he is also interested in ferns – ancient\, non-flowering plants that play vital roles in environmental health and biodiversity. \nFollowed by morning tea \nhttps://adelaide.zoom.us/j/88324941961?pwd=iBEvCU8wU2bKbEa3JaDzLIDGOZtEkj.1 \nWebinar ID: 883 2494 1961\, Passcode:429141 URL:https://www.thewaite.org/event/wri-seminar-series-professor-zhong-hua-chen-safw-adelaide-university/ LOCATION:Plant Research Centre Auditorium\, South Australia\, Australia CATEGORIES:Adelaide University,WRI END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Adelaide:20260709T100000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Adelaide:20260709T110000 DTSTAMP:20261023T130626 CREATED:20260616T122123Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260705T221329Z UID:30808-1783591200-1783594800@www.thewaite.org SUMMARY:WRI Seminar Series: Professor Stuart Roy\, SAFW\, Adelaide University DESCRIPTION:Professor Stuart Roy\, SAFW\, Adelaide University\n \nDate: Thursday\, 09 July; 10-11 am\,  SARDI Auditorium \nTitle: Establishing a new paradigm for salinity tolerance in cereals: Version 2 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Abstract: Salinity tolerance in plants consists of several sub-traits. All plants exclude >95% of soil sodium (Na+) from their tissues\, but the majority of research has focussed on enhancing Na+ exclusion from leaf blades. While improvements in this sub-trait have been successfully introduced into some crop species\, its adoption into bread wheat or barley commercial varieties has been lacking\, as its influence on improving yield has been inconsistent/detrimental. With recent evidence finding no negative correlation between leaf Na+ concentration and yield in bread wheat and barley\, it is hypothesised that exclusion of Na+ from reproductive tissue is a key determinant of yield. It is also hypothesised that the failure to introduce enhanced Na+ excluding mechanisms for improving commercial bread wheat and barley yields is due to the dryland environment in which Australian crops grow\, and the crop’s ability to uptake water for growth. \nThis presentation will look at the different ways bread wheat and barley transport Na+ through the plant (through having different alleles of the Na+ transporter HKT1;5). It will also cover the progress made to understanding the underlying mechanisms for tissue tolerance\, and whether accumulation of Na+ in certain tissues is a viable approach to enhance yield in a low saline dryland environment. \nBio: Stu is a Professor  at the School of Agriculture\, Food & Wine\, University of Adelaide. He is currently the Deputy Director (Industry) for the ARC Industrial Transformation Training Centre for Accelerated Future Crop Development\, on the management committee for Plant SynBio Australia\, and formerly the Director for the ARC Industrial Transformation Research Hub for Wheat in a Hot and Dry Environment. His interests are in improving the abiotic stress tolerance of cereals crops\, particularly salinity tolerance\, and in improving cereal yield.Stu gained a BSc (Hons) in Plant and Environmental Biology for the University of St Andrews (UK) and a PhD in Plant Physiology from the University of Cambridge (UK). After a Broodbank Research Fellowship at Cambridge\, Stuart moved to the Australian Centre for Plant Functional Genomics\, University of Adelaide\, to lead the Salinity Research program. He continues this program today in the School of Agriculture\, Food and Wine. \nStu is also looks after the Student Experience portfolio at School of Agriculture\, Food and Wine\, and is the Program Director for the Bachelor of Agricultural Science Degree. \nhttps://adelaide.zoom.us/j/88324941961?pwd=iBEvCU8wU2bKbEa3JaDzLIDGOZtEkj.1 \nWebinar ID: 883 2494 1961\, Passcode:429141 URL:https://www.thewaite.org/event/wri-seminar-series-professor-stuart-roy-safw-adelaide-university/ LOCATION:Plant Research Centre Auditorium\, South Australia\, Australia CATEGORIES:WRI END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Adelaide:20260625T100000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Adelaide:20260625T110000 DTSTAMP:20261023T130626 CREATED:20260512T065123Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260519T043554Z UID:30534-1782381600-1782385200@www.thewaite.org SUMMARY:WRI Seminar Series: Professor Enzo Lombi\, Future Industries Institute\, Adelaide University DESCRIPTION:Professor Enzo Lombi\, Future Industries Institute\, Adelaide University\, School of Agriculture and Food Sustainability\, The University of Queensland\, Australia\n  \nDate: Thursday\, 25 Jun; 10-11 am – SARDI PRC Auditorium \nTitle: Developing (field-relevant) synchrotron techniques to support agricultural innovation \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Abstract:Synchrotron techniques have been used to investigate a range of processes in soils and plants. While these applications were initially addressing environmental issues related to pollution\, recent years have seen increasing interest in using synchrotron approaches for agricultural research. This presentation will focus on new methodologies developed to tackle some major challenges related with food production and in particular fertiliser efficiency\, soil constraints and nutritional value of crops \nBio: Enzo Lombi (orcid.org/0000-0003-3384-0375) holds the Barbara Hardy Chair in Environmental Science and Engineering at the Future Industries Institute\, Adelaide University. His major research interests relate to the biogeochemistry of trace elements and nutrients in the environment. His research relies on synchrotron and (radio)isotopic techniques. Enzo received his PhD in environmental chemistry from the Catholic University (Italy) and held positions at BOKU (Vienna)\, Rothamsted Research (UK)\, CSIRO (Australia) and the University of Copenhagen (Denmark) before starting at the University of South Australia in 2009. \nTo see his research profile\, click HERE \n  \nFollowed by morning tea URL:https://www.thewaite.org/event/wri-seminar-series-professor-enzo-lombi-future-industries-institute-adelaide-university/ LOCATION:Auditorium\, Plant Research Centre\, 2b Hartley Grove\, Urrbrae\, South Australia\, 5064\, Australia CATEGORIES:WRI END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Adelaide:20260611T100000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Adelaide:20260611T110000 DTSTAMP:20261023T130626 CREATED:20260512T024626Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260526T024516Z UID:30507-1781172000-1781175600@www.thewaite.org SUMMARY:WRI Seminar Series: Prof Rachel Burton\, School of Agriculture\, Food and Wine - Adelaide University DESCRIPTION:Professor Rachel Burton\, School of Agriculture\, Food and Wine\, Adelaide University\n  \nDate: Thursday\, 11 Jun; 10-11 am – SARDI PRC Auditorium \nTitle: The trials and tribulations of new crop establishment \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Abstract: The Australian climate is changing across many fronts – the weather\, economically\, in the face of AI and global conflicts. And agriculture across Australia is caught in the cross hairs. Our interest in emerging crops lies in finding more sustainable\, tougher and better suited plants that can cope with our growing conditions\, make use of huge areas of marginal land and meet the needs of growers to make a living from farming. Today we will look at two potential new crops\, agave and Plantago (psyllium)\, dipping into the history of why we chose them\, what we have done over the past two decades to better understand them and lastly to outline what we still have to do to get them over the line so that they become a feature of our agricultural landscape in the years to come. \nBio: My expertise is in the areas of plant molecular biology and plant functional genomics\, particularly as it relates to cell wall biosynthesis\, re-modeling and degradation and the impact these biological processes have on end use quality of cereals and biomass. Research in this area is mainly focused on barley as we have access to an excellent genetic transformation system and extensive genetic resources but we are now developing resources in other cereals and Plantago species. The gene families I have a particular interest in include the cellulose synthases\, the mixed link beta-glucan synthases and the xylan synthases. Cellulose content is likely to have an impact on plant strength and is of central importance in the use of plants as a feedstock for biofuel production\, whilst mixed-link glucans and arabinoxylans have major human health benefits and also crucially impact digestibility of animal feed and steps in brewing and baking processes. I also have an interest in the development and application of novel experimental methods for transcript profiling and gene discovery in plants. \n  \nhttps://adelaide.zoom.us/j/88324941961?pwd=iBEvCU8wU2bKbEa3JaDzLIDGOZtEkj.1 \nWebinar ID: 883 2494 1961\, Passcode:429141 \n  \nFollowed by morning tea URL:https://www.thewaite.org/event/wri-seminar-series-prof-rachel-burton-school-of-agriculture-food-and-wine-adelaide-university/ LOCATION:Auditorium\, Plant Research Centre\, 2b Hartley Grove\, Urrbrae\, South Australia\, 5064\, Australia CATEGORIES:WRI END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Adelaide:20260604T140000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Adelaide:20260604T150000 DTSTAMP:20261023T130626 CREATED:20260519T041324Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260519T041504Z UID:30600-1780581600-1780585200@www.thewaite.org SUMMARY:WRI Seminar Series: Dr Kelly Houston\, The James Hutton Institute: Dundee\, Scotland DESCRIPTION:Dr Kelly Houston\, The James Hutton Institute: Dundee\, Scotland\n \nDate: Thursday\, 04 Jun; 2-3 pm\,  Charles Hawker\, McLeod Lecture Theatre \nTitle: TBA \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Abstract: TBA \nBio: Kelly is a geneticist who has worked in barley genetics research since completing her PhD.\, much of her research has been on two main aspects of grain composition\, the plant cell wall (including (1\,3;1\,4)-β- glucan\, arabinoxylan and phenolic acids)\, and micronutrient content. She identifies and characterizes genes responsible for these traits using a powerful combination of high-density marker sets to carry out statistical genetic analysis and genetic resources (including natural germplasm\, mutants and CRISPR-Cas9 gene edited lines) to learn more about how these genes ultimately influence the trait of interest. Kelly has utilizing georeferenced datasets to understand more about genetic adaptation to a range of environmental conditions and how this can be applied to facilitate the development of germplasm suitable for future predicted climates. URL:https://www.thewaite.org/event/wri-seminar-series-dr-kelly-houston-the-james-hutton-institute-dundee-dundee-scotland/ LOCATION:Charles Hawker McLeod Lecture Theatre\, Waite Rd\, Urrbrae\, SA\, 5064 CATEGORIES:Visiting Speaker Seminars,WRI END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Adelaide:20260430T100000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Adelaide:20260430T110000 DTSTAMP:20261023T130626 CREATED:20260323T122851Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260323T122951Z UID:30226-1777543200-1777546800@www.thewaite.org SUMMARY:WRI Seminar Series: Dr Agnieszka Mierczynska-Vasilev\, AWRI DESCRIPTION:Dr Agnieszka Mierczynska-Vasilev\, AWRI\n \nDate: Thursday\, 30  April 2026\, 10:00 am\, SARDI Plant Research Centre Auditorium \nTitle: Engineering Functional Surfaces with Plasma Technologies for Wine Processing \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Abstract: Surface science and nanotechnology are opening new opportunities to address persistent challenges in wine production\, including flavour faults\, instability\, and processing inefficiencies. This seminar will present recent advances in plasma polymerisation as a versatile platform for engineering functional surfaces with tailored chemical and physical properties for wine processing applications. By controlling plasma deposition parameters\, surfaces can be designed to selectively interact with specific compounds in complex wine matrices. Case studies will include magnetic nanoparticle systems for protein haze removal\, plasma-functionalised materials for tartrate stabilisation\, and nanoengineered surfaces with immobilised gold nanoparticles for the selective removal of volatile sulfur compounds responsible for reductive aromas. These examples illustrate how surface-engineered materials can offer innovative\, potentially more sustainable alternatives to conventional winemaking treatments while improving wine quality and processing efficiency. \nBio: Dr Agnieszka Mierczynska-Vasilev is a Principal Research Scientist at the Australian Wine Research Institute (AWRI). Her research focuses on materials science\, surface engineering\, and nanotechnology applied to complex liquid systems\, particularly wine. She develops nanoengineered materials and smart surface technologies to address key challenges in wine production\, including flavour faults\, stability issues\, and processing efficiency. Her work contributes to the development of novel surface-engineered materials for the selective removal of undesirable compounds in wine\, bridging fundamental materials science with practical solutions for the wine sector through collaborations with academic and industry partners in Australia and internationally. \nhttps://adelaide.zoom.us/j/88324941961?pwd=iBEvCU8wU2bKbEa3JaDzLIDGOZtEkj.1 \nWebinar ID: 883 2494 1961\, Passcode:429141 \nFollowed by morning tea URL:https://www.thewaite.org/event/wri-seminar-series-dr-agnieszka-mierczynska-vasilev-awri/ LOCATION:Plant Research Centre Auditorium\, South Australia\, Australia CATEGORIES:AWRI,WRI END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Adelaide:20260416T113000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Adelaide:20260416T120000 DTSTAMP:20261023T130626 CREATED:20260316T123432Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260323T115341Z UID:30159-1776339000-1776340800@www.thewaite.org SUMMARY:WRI Seminar Series: Dr. Ryan Hansen\, Kansas State University DESCRIPTION:Dr. Ryan Hansen\, Kansas State University\n \nDate: Thursday\, 16 April 2026\, 11:30 am\, SARDI Plant Research Centre Auditorium \nTitle: Advancing Soil and Seed Treatments for Sustainable Agriculture in the Central High Plains  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Abstract: Increasing global food demand combined with more frequent and intense periods of drought necessitates new strategies to improve agricultural water use efficiency. In addition\, reducing our dependence on synthetic fertilizers for crop growth remains a critical challenge for sustainable food production. In this presentation\, I will highlight recent efforts at Kansas State University to address both areas using soil and seed treatments. First\, I will highlight the microbial inoculants for climate resilient agriculture (MICRA) project. The MICRA project combines engineers\, mathematicians\, soil scientists\, social scientists\, and agricultural economists to develop water conservation strategies in the water-stressed Central High Plains region of the United States\, where irrigation relies on the rapidly depleting Ogallala Aquifer. A central project goal is to establish fundamental knowledge on the impacts of soil amendments – specifically soil wetting bacteria\, biosurfactants\, and biochar – designed to enhance soil water holding capacity and improve agroecosystem productivity during periods of drought. Second\, I will discuss our recent work developing a novel strategy for bioprospecting the rhizosphere of corn crops to discover bacterial isolates useful for biofertilizer formulations. The approach relies on a microfluidic device that screens interactions across thousands of unique bacteria and identifies strain combinations optimized for plant growth promoting bacteria (PGPB) survival and growth. The approach has been used to generate formulations of synergistic\, diazotrophic PGPB consortia that have been applied to corn seedlings to boost productivity in preliminary lab-scale studies\, demonstrating the potential to reduce the amount of synthetic nitrogen input necessary for corn production. \nBio: Dr. Ryan Hansen is an associate professor in the Tim Taylor Department of Chemical Engineering at Kansas State University. He completed his Ph.D. in chemical engineering at the University of Colorado\, Boulder in 2008 and worked as a post-doctoral fellow at the Colorado School of Mines and as a research scientist at Oak Ridge National Laboratory. Dr. Hansen’s research develops novel materials and analytical tools to study microbial interactions in effort to develop bioinoculants for promoting soil health and crop production\, as well as probiotics for gut health. He is the current recipient of a Fulbright U.S. Scholar Award and a visiting scientist at the University of Technology Sydney. He has served as lead PI on multiple projects funded by the National Science Foundation and the U.S. Department of Energy and is the recipient of an NSF Career Award. His teaching has been recognized through the College of Engineering Excellence in Undergraduate Teaching Award and the Faculty Excellence in Chemical Engineering Award at Kansas State University. \nhttps://adelaide.zoom.us/j/88324941961?pwd=iBEvCU8wU2bKbEa3JaDzLIDGOZtEkj.1 \nWebinar ID: 883 2494 1961\, Passcode:429141 URL:https://www.thewaite.org/event/wri-seminar-series-dr-ryan-hansen-kansas-state-university/ LOCATION:Plant Research Centre Auditorium\, South Australia\, Australia CATEGORIES:Visiting Speaker Seminars,WRI END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Adelaide:20260327T110000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Adelaide:20260327T120000 DTSTAMP:20261023T130626 CREATED:20260216T200924Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260216T200950Z UID:30014-1774609200-1774612800@www.thewaite.org SUMMARY:WRI Seminar Series: Dr Dylan Jones\, IPK DESCRIPTION:Dr Dylan Jones\, Leibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research (IPK)\n \nDate: Friday\, March 27 2026\, 11 am\, SARDI Plant Research Centre Auditorium \nTitle: Investigating regulation of vascular patterning along root axes in cereals \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Abstract: Root anatomy significantly affects root system physiology\, especially hydraulic transport. Different parts of the root system (seminal and adventitious root classes) can present different anatomical traits\, which can also vary significantly within individual roots. By developing a low cost high throughput root anatomical phenotyping platform\, we were able to screen a wide range of cereals to investigate differences in anatomy between root classes and along root lengths. We identified a conserved root class specific change in vascular anatomical patterning\, and have proceeded to investigate how this anatomical transition is regulated hormonally and transcriptionally\, and what physiological effect this has on root system function. \nBio: I am a postdoctoral researcher at the IPK Gatersleben with a strong interest anatomical phenotyping to investigate root development and the relationship between root anatomy and water availability and transport. I studied at the University of Nottingham\, during which I worked on projects investigating anatomical reduction and vestigialization of duckweed roots\, regulation of vascular patterning in Brachypodium and Barley roots\, and the role of root anatomy in drought tolerance in pearl millet. In my current work at the IPK I am collaborating with the University of Queensland to investigate how root plasticity affects water use in wheat and sorghum and how to phenotype roots using remote sensing techniques.  \n  \nhttps://adelaide.zoom.us/j/88324941961?pwd=iBEvCU8wU2bKbEa3JaDzLIDGOZtEkj.1 \nWebinar ID: 883 2494 1961\, Passcode:429141 \n  \n \n \n \n \n \n Check out the SA Drought Hub’s website HERE \n  \nJoin from PC\, Mac\, iPad\, or Android: \nhttps://adelaide.zoom.us/j/88324941961?pwd=iBEvCU8wU2bKbEa3JaDzLIDGOZtEkj.1 \nWebinar ID: 883 2494 1961 \nPasscode:429141 URL:https://www.thewaite.org/event/wri-seminar-series-dr-dylan-jones-ipk/ LOCATION:Plant Research Centre Auditorium\, South Australia\, Australia CATEGORIES:Visiting Speaker Seminars,WRI END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Adelaide:20260313T083000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Adelaide:20260313T160000 DTSTAMP:20261023T130626 CREATED:20260302T100956Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260302T101003Z UID:30104-1773390600-1773417600@www.thewaite.org SUMMARY:SA Industry Forum DESCRIPTION:Buy tickets HERE\n \n \n \n \n \n National Farmers’ Federation\, Primary Producers South Australia & Telstra welcome you for a day of conversation\, collaboration and connection as we explore State based and National based issues in agriculture. \nTo start the day PPSA will be hosting the Primary Industries 2026 State Election Forum from 8:30am-10:30am. The event will bring together the current Minister and Shadow Minister for Primary Industries\, providing a platform for each party to outline and discuss its priorities for South Australia’s agribusiness\, food and wine sectors. \nFollowing the election forum\, NFF\, PPSA & Telstra will dive into the SA Industry Insights Forum for your opportunity to: \n\nHear leadership perspectives from National\, State and Commodity Ag Leaders. NFF President\, Hamish McIntrye\, will sit down with PPSA CEO\, Caroline Rhodes\, to talk about how he built his business and what’s on the horizon for the agricultural industry as we move toward the $100 billion target.\nEngage with key thinkers on AI\, connectivity\, telecommunication policy\, and access to data education.\nGain global advocacy insights from Europe\, is Australia leading the way or are there lessons we can learn from the EU?\nStrengthen your understanding of regulatory changes including climate related financial disclosure\, EPBC\, emissions\, and national water agreement.\nHear from industry leaders in farm safety and understand how ‘safety culture’ might just save you or the person next to you.\nExplore practical pathways to attract\, support and retain young people in agriculture.\nConnect with peers\, leaders and emerging talent in a relaxed and supportive environment.\nContribute to sector‑wide conversations that influence SA’s agricultural future.\n\nSouth Australia’s very own Charlotte Wundersitz will join us as Master of Ceremonies\, the conversations are set to be intriguing\, informative and insightful.  \nMorning tea\, lunch and afternoon tea will be provided. We invite you to stay and join us for dinner after the forum. URL:https://www.thewaite.org/event/sa-industry-forum/ LOCATION:Grünthal Brew\, Verdun\, SA\, Australia CATEGORIES:Training Opportunities,WRI END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Adelaide:20260310T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Adelaide:20260310T200000 DTSTAMP:20261023T130626 CREATED:20260223T115623Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260223T115626Z UID:30055-1773165600-1773172800@www.thewaite.org SUMMARY:TPJ- Global Plant Council webinar DESCRIPTION:Description: This webinar is the 3rd in a series together with “The Plant Journal” Join us for a webinar hosted as a collaboration between The Global Plant Council and the “The Plant Journal”. Plant receptors detect a diverse spectrum of signaling molecules\, external and endogenous\, essential to control plant growth\, development\, and stress responses.\n\n\n\nThis webinar will present research from three speakers on different aspects of plant receptors and receptor based signaling.\n\nDate: 10th March 2026 Time: 18:00\n\nCET Hosted by Katherine Denby (Editor in Chief of The Plant Journal)\n\nSpeakers and topics: Dr. Johana Misas Villamil (University of Cologne Institute of Plant Sciences / CEPLAS ) with “Zip1 Peptide Signaling: Biogenesis\, Function and Evolution” Dr. Satoshi Fujita (University of Toulouse) with “MBAPs link brassinosteroid signaling and microtubules” Dr. Jacob Moe-Lange (UC Davis) with “Uncovering New Layers of KAI2 Signaling Crosstalk”.\n\nDon’t miss this opportunity to hear and engage in thoughtful discussion. Register now to secure your spot. Note: Certificates will be issued using exactly the name and last name provided in the registration forms. URL:https://www.thewaite.org/event/tpj-global-plant-council-webinar/ LOCATION:Online via Zoom\, Australia CATEGORIES:Training Opportunities,What's what @ Waite,WRI END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Adelaide:20260305T100000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Adelaide:20260305T110000 DTSTAMP:20261023T130626 CREATED:20260216T194654Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260216T194743Z UID:30006-1772704800-1772708400@www.thewaite.org SUMMARY:WRI Seminar Series: Professor Emilio Gil\, Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya DESCRIPTION:Professor Emilio Gil\, Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya (UPC)\n \nDate: Thursday 05 March 2026\, 10 am\, SARDI Plant Research Centre Auditorium \nTitle: From compliance to precision: Integrating Legislation and Technology in Crop Protection \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Abstract: Crop protection is entering a new era in which compliance is no longer just a legal requirement—it is becoming a driver for better decision-making\, higher efficiency\, and lower environmental impact. It will be presented how legislation and technology can be integrated to move “from compliance to precision” in the use of plant protection products. We will review the main regulatory principles shaping modern crop protection (traceability\, risk reduction\, operator safety\, environmental protection\, and documentation) and translate them into practical field workflows. The session then connects these requirements with the tools of precision agriculture: decision-support systems\, digital record keeping\, variable-rate application\, weather and disease forecasting\, and monitoring technologies such as sensors and remote sensing. Through real-world scenarios\, we will show how data-driven planning and application can improve efficacy while supporting compliance—reducing off-target drift\, optimizing dose and timing\, and improving transparency across the farm-to-market chain. Finally\, we highlight the human factor: training as the bridge between rules and results. Participants will leave with a clear framework to align legal obligations with operational best practices\, turning compliance into a measurable pathway toward precision\, sustainability\, and responsible crop protection. The European situation will be highlighted. \nBio: Emilio Gil is a Full Professor at the Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya (UPC) and Head of the Agricultural Machinery Unit (www.uma-upc.com )\, leading an officially recognised research group. His profile is strongly oriented to European project leadership\, serving as Project Coordinator of INNOSETA (H2020)\, AGRICT (Erasmus+)\, and RENOVATE (Horizon Europe\, 2024–2028)\, and coordinating EU-wide training actions under DG SANTE / BTSF on inspection\, calibration and risk mitigation during pesticide use. In terms of output and international reach\, his CV lists 80 SCI-indexed journal papers\, alongside a broad set of additional international publications and contributions. He has held major international-facing roles\, including Vice-Director for International Relationships (2000–2005)\, Visiting Professor at Cornell University (USA) and Director of the Aragon Government Office in Brussels (2016)\, and he works routinely in English and other languages at professional level. Prof. Gil has delivered more than 200 invited speeches all around the world\, and has been advisor of several governments as Spain\, Chile\, Serbia\, Cyprus\, promoting and implementing EU requirements in the topic of plant protection products. He also combines academia with multiple high-responsibility appointments: President of the FIMA international jury/board for new technologies\, Director of the Syngenta–UPC Chair\, President of AESAVE\, Member of the Royal European Academy of Doctors\, and Associate Editor in leading journals (e.g.\, Precision Agriculture\, Journal of ASABE)\, while contributing to CEN/ISO standardization activities as national expert. Member of EUPAF – European Precision Application Task Force. He plays saxophone at Aula Jazz Orchestra in Sant Cugat (Barcelona). Author of 7 books\, combining technology with leisure\, novel and history. \n  \nhttps://adelaide.zoom.us/j/88324941961?pwd=iBEvCU8wU2bKbEa3JaDzLIDGOZtEkj.1 \nWebinar ID: 883 2494 1961\, Passcode:429141 \n \n \n \n \n \n Check out the SA Drought Hub’s website HERE \n  \nJoin from PC\, Mac\, iPad\, or Android: \nhttps://adelaide.zoom.us/j/88324941961?pwd=iBEvCU8wU2bKbEa3JaDzLIDGOZtEkj.1 \nWebinar ID: 883 2494 1961 \nPasscode:429141 URL:https://www.thewaite.org/event/wri-seminar-series-professor-emilio-gil-universitat-politecnica-de-catalunya/ LOCATION:Plant Research Centre Auditorium\, South Australia\, Australia CATEGORIES:Visiting Speaker Seminars,WRI END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Adelaide:20260219T100000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Adelaide:20260219T110000 DTSTAMP:20261023T130627 CREATED:20260127T190916Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260127T191928Z UID:29909-1771495200-1771498800@www.thewaite.org SUMMARY:WRI Seminar Series: : Dr Stephen Lee\, Director of the SA Drought Hub DESCRIPTION:Dr Stephen Lee\n \nDate: Thursday 19 Feb 2026\, 10 am\, SARDI Plant Research Centre Auditorium \nTitle: SA Drought Hub – impacts to date and opportunities for collaboration \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Abstract: The South Australian Drought Resilience Adoption and Innovation Hub (SA Drought Hub) was established in June 2021 with a primary focus on building drought and climate resilience for farmers and regional communities. The Hub\, delivered in partnership Department of Primary Industries and Regions (PIRSA)\, is one of eight established across the nation through the Australian Government’s Future Drought Fund. The SA Drought Hub has a primary focus on broadacre and pastoral industries and is responsible for delivery of programs that integrate research\, development\, extension\, adoption and commercialisation aligned with drought and climate resilience priorities informed by extensive regional consultation. An overview of projects spanning near\, medium and longterm horizons will be presented. \nBio: Dr Stephen Lee brings extensive experience in agricultural research\, development and adoption to the role of Director of the SA Drought Hub. He undertook his PhD with the University of Adelaide and Cooperative Research Centre for Beef Genetic Technologies and has published research and led adoption programs spanning agricultural enterprise productivity and profitability\, genetic improvement\, greenhouse gas emissions reduction and improvement of product quality. Stephen was the first Manager of the South Australian Sheep and Beef Industry Blueprints where he worked extensively with a value chain wide working group on the development and successful implementation of the industry growth strategy. Stephen received the 2024 Southern Australia Livestock Research Council Scientist/researcher award recipient and in 2021 was awarded the Jim McColl Australian Institute of Agriculture Young Consultant Award. \n \n \n \n \n \n Check out the SA Drought Hub’s website HERE \n  \nJoin from PC\, Mac\, iPad\, or Android: \nhttps://adelaide.zoom.us/j/88324941961?pwd=iBEvCU8wU2bKbEa3JaDzLIDGOZtEkj.1 \nWebinar ID: 883 2494 1961 \nPasscode:429141 URL:https://www.thewaite.org/event/wri-seminar-series-dr-stephen-lee-director-of-the-sa-drought-hub/ LOCATION:Plant Research Centre Auditorium\, South Australia\, Australia CATEGORIES:Adelaide University,What's what @ Waite,WRI END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Adelaide:20260212T100000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Adelaide:20260212T110000 DTSTAMP:20261023T130627 CREATED:20251222T050526Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251222T051005Z UID:29823-1770890400-1770894000@www.thewaite.org SUMMARY:WRI Seminar Series: Dr Matthew Paul and Dr Cara Griffiths\, Rothamsted Research DESCRIPTION: Dr Matthew Paul and Dr Cara Griffiths –  Rothamsted Research\n \nDate: Thursday 12 Feb 2026\, 10 am\, SARDI Plant Research Centre Auditorium \nTitle:Translating discoveries in sugar signalling to crop yield improvement \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Abstract: There is an ongoing need to improve both yield potential and resilience in crops in a way that is sustainable. Fundamental science can provide information on mechanisms and processes that could be targeted genetically or by other methods. Our research has found that trehalose 6-phosphate (T6P) is a sugar signal which inhibits the central protein kinase SnRK1 and regulates crop resource allocation. Over 20 years with Ben Davis at Oxford University we have developed a chemical intervention method for T6P. Using light-activated T6P precursors wheat yields can be increased in field conditions >10%\, an order of magnitude greater than by current breeding. Significantly\, yield increases were achieved without requirement for additional fertiliser in both wet and dry years. Yield is increased because T6P activates >100 genes for starch and protein synthesis in grain during early grain filling. Enhanced grain sink strength increases the rate of photosynthesis. Hence the whole source to sink pathway is activated. Interestingly\, T6P overcomes recalcitrant trade-offs between grain size and grain number and between grain yield and grain protein content. The research demonstrates a step-change\, scalable technology with net benefit to the environment that could provide sustainable yield improvements of diverse staple cereal crops. \nBio for Dr Matthew Paul: Following a PhD at the University of Leicester and Royal Society post-doctoral fellowship in Germany\, MP has spent much of his career at Rothamsted Research where he is a Principal Research Scientist in the Delivering Sustainable Wheat Institute Strategic Programme. In 1999 he began working on trehalose 6-phosphate (T6P) sugar signalling. Through several productive collaborations and grants particularly from UKRI-BBSRC the team discovered that T6P inhibited SnRK1\, a member of the conserved AMPK/SNF1 protein kinase master regulators of metabolism\, sugar and energy homeostasis. Subsequent research has shown the central role of T6P in crop resource allocation. A chemical intervention method to perturb T6P in crops pioneered with Professor Ben Davis (Oxford University) increases wheat yields in field conditions. The research has led to the formation of spinout SugaROx co-founded by MP\, Ben Davis and Cara Griffiths which is developing T6P applications in a range of crops. \nBio for Dr Cara Griffiths: Cara is a molecular biologist – biochemist. Cara is interested in whole plant carbon allocation and carbon usage\, with an emphasis on how this is regulated by SnRK1 and sugar phosphates\, in particular trehalose-6-phosphate (T6P). In addition\, she also looks at how sugars are accumulated and used in both drought and desiccation tolerance processes. Cara has a research background in the molecular mechanisms of desiccation tolerance\, where she previously looked at hormone glycosylation and senescence avoidance in the resurrection grass\, Sporobolus stapfianus. In addition\, she continues to be involved in sugar and starch biochemistry in wheat where she looks at how a T6P precursor can be used to induce changes in this biochemistry\, improving resilience and increasing yield. Currently\, Cara mainly works on exploring genetic and sugar biochemistry variation in drought tolerant wheat populations\, in addition to using resurrection plant genes to improve crop yields and drought tolerance. URL:https://www.thewaite.org/event/wri-seminar-series-dr-matthew-paul-and-dr-cara-griffiths-rothamsted-research/ LOCATION:Plant Research Centre Auditorium\, South Australia\, Australia CATEGORIES:WRI END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Adelaide:20260122T100000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Adelaide:20260122T110000 DTSTAMP:20261023T130627 CREATED:20251208T041131Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251208T041137Z UID:29727-1769076000-1769079600@www.thewaite.org SUMMARY:WRI Seminar Series: Prof. Daniel Hunkeler\, University of Neuchâtel\, Switzerland DESCRIPTION:Prof. Daniel Hunkeler\, University of Neuchatel (CH)\, Switzerland\n \nDate: Thursday 22 Jan 2026\, 10 am\, SARDI Plant Research Centre Auditorium \nTitle: Safeguarding groundwater quality in landscapes under intense land use \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Abstract: In the context of climate change\, groundwater is becoming an increasingly important resource due to its reliable availability. However\, both groundwater quantity and quality are under growing pressure. A particular concern is the frequent detection of mobile organic micropollutants originating from agricultural and urban areas. The long-term fate of these substances remains poorly understood\, with notable discrepancies between predictions based on laboratory studies and observations in the field. Substances expected to degrade rapidly may persist in soils or appear in groundwater\, whereas compounds considered persistent in the subsurface may still degrade over long timescales relevant to groundwater\, albeit at rates that are difficult to quantify. \nThis presentation provides an overview of organic micropollutants in groundwater\, with a focus on Switzerland\, and examines the factors controlling their input to and transport through aquifers\, particularly in the case of pesticides. Furthermore\, the potential of compound-specific multi-element isotope analysis to provide new insights into micropollutant fate in soils and the subsurface will be discussed\, including methodological challenges and findings from field investigations. Finally\, implications for policies aimed at safeguarding groundwater quality over the long term will be explored. \nBio: Daniel Hunkeler is a professor at the Centre for Hydrogeology and Geothermics (CHYN) at the University of Neuchâtel\, Switzerland\, where he directs the Hydrochemistry and Contaminants Laboratory. His research focuses on the key controls of microbial and chemical groundwater quality\, with particular emphasis on the interactions at soil–groundwater and groundwater–surface water interfaces. \n  \nJoin from PC\, Mac\, iPad\, or Android: \nhttps://adelaide.zoom.us/j/88324941961?pwd=iBEvCU8wU2bKbEa3JaDzLIDGOZtEkj.1 \nPasscode:429141 URL:https://www.thewaite.org/event/wri-seminar-series-prof-daniel-hunkeler-university-of-neuchatel-switzerland/ LOCATION:Auditorium\, Plant Research Centre\, 2b Hartley Grove\, Urrbrae\, South Australia\, 5064\, Australia CATEGORIES:Visiting Speaker Seminars,WRI END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Adelaide:20251211T100000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Adelaide:20251211T110000 DTSTAMP:20261023T130627 CREATED:20251027T071752Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251208T034845Z UID:29450-1765447200-1765450800@www.thewaite.org SUMMARY:WRI Seminar Series: Prof Romulo Lollato\, Kansas State University DESCRIPTION:Prof Romulo Lollato – Kansas State University\, Wheat and Forages Specialist\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Bio: \nDr. Romulo P. Lollato got his B.S. degree in Agronomy from Londrina State University (Brazil)\, M.S. in Plant and Soil Sciences from Oklahoma State University (OSU)\, and Ph.D. in Crop Science from OSU. Currently\, Romulo is a professor of Agronomy at Kansas State University\, Extension Wheat and Forages Specialist\, where he provides leadership for an interdisciplinary team developing a strong Extension (80%) and applied research (20%) programs. He is an associate editor for Agronomy Journal\, where he received an award for outstanding associated editor in January 2018\, and he is a reviewer for Agricultural and Forest Meteorology\, Agronomy Journal\, Crop Science\, Crop and Pasture Science\, among other scientific journals. Romulo is a member of the American Society of Agronomy\, Crop Science Society of America\, and Soil Science Society of America. \nRomulo’s interest in wheat first started as actual crop production\, working in his family’s soybean-corn-wheat farming operation\, in which he grew up helping. His interest in wheat increased during his MS\, with a thesis focused on wheat response to liming acidic soils in central Oklahoma. During his PhD\, his dissertation focused on intensive wheat management and the meteorological limits to winter wheat productivity in the southern Great Plains\, as well as soil water dynamics under the wheat crop and wheat variety response to soil pH and aluminum concentration gradients. Currently\, Romulo directly oversees over 20 different research projects related to wheat production or applied wheat physiology\, most pertaining to M.S. thesis or Ph.D. dissertations of students training in his program. URL:https://www.thewaite.org/event/wri-seminar-series-prof-romulo-lollato-kansas-state-university/ LOCATION:Plant Research Centre Auditorium\, South Australia\, Australia CATEGORIES:WRI END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Adelaide:20251203T090000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Adelaide:20251203T170000 DTSTAMP:20261023T130627 CREATED:20251027T042203Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251124T041501Z UID:29442-1764752400-1764781200@www.thewaite.org SUMMARY:Waite Research Institute Symposium 2025 DESCRIPTION:Tickets are now available! Click HERE to register. URL:https://www.thewaite.org/event/waite-research-institute-symposium-2025/ LOCATION:National Wine Centre\, Hackney Rd & Botanic Rd\, Adelaide\, SA\, 5000\, Australia CATEGORIES:What's what @ Waite,WRI END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Adelaide:20251125T080000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Adelaide:20251125T090000 DTSTAMP:20261023T130627 CREATED:20251013T075206Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251013T075208Z UID:29357-1764057600-1764061200@www.thewaite.org SUMMARY:ASPS Women in Plant Science Breakfast DESCRIPTION:Please join Alison Gill & Alison Bentley for the first ASPS Women in Plant Science Breakfast from 8 to 9am on Tuesday 25th November. \nThe event is made possible through the generous support of The Yitpi Foundation\, the ARC Centre of Excellence in Plants for Space\, the Waite Research Institute and CSIRO. The event is open to all ASPS conference attendees\, and the 1-hour session will include a mix of topical presentations\, Q&A and networking (further details provided to all registered attendees before the event). \nLight refreshments & juices will be served. Please BYO tea/coffee.  \n \n Register HERE URL:https://www.thewaite.org/event/asps-women-in-plant-science-breakfast/ LOCATION:SA CATEGORIES:Adelaide University,Plants for Space,WRI END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Adelaide:20251120T100000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Adelaide:20251120T110000 DTSTAMP:20261023T130627 CREATED:20251117T120638Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251117T120640Z UID:29608-1763632800-1763636400@www.thewaite.org SUMMARY:WRI Seminar Series: Dr Kari Dunfield is from School of Environmental Sciences\, University of Guelph\, Canada DESCRIPTION:Dr Kari Dunfield is from School of Environmental Sciences\, University of Guelph\, Canada \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Date: Thursday 20 Nov 2025\, 10 am\, SARDI Plant Research Centre Auditorium \nTitle: Investigating the microbiome for ecosystem sustainability: A systems approach. \n \n \n \n \n \n Abstract: \nSoils are vital for society\, providing critical services such as nutrient cycling\, primary production\, water regulation and climate and erosion control. Protecting soil resources is a defining issue of our time\, but solutions are complex and require an integrated cross-disciplinary approach. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Increasingly soil health and biodiversity are recognized as key components in a framework for protecting\, restoring and sustainable use of soils. My research program bridges microbiology\, plant science\, and soil science to investigate microbial communities and biogeochemical cycles that drive the global processes that underpin terrestrial ecosystem functioning. This research program uses next-generation sequencing technologies- metagenomics and metatranscriptomics- applied to environmental samples\, to generate quantitative profiles of microbial taxonomic and functional diversity\, including interkingdom interactions. A key component of my research program\, and key to its success is the in situ and applied nature of the work. In this seminar\, I will present a few examples of long-term studies where we have taken a transdisciplinary approach to find solutions to complex global environmental challenges\, including\, protecting soil biodiversity and soil health\, characterizing microbial drivers of greenhouse gas emissions\, and organic phosphorus cycling. \nBiography \nKari Dunfield is a Professor of Soil and Environmental Microbiology at the University of Guelph\, and has been studying soil biology in Ontario agricultural systems for over 20 years.  She has degrees in Microbiology (BSc) from U Calgary and Plant Science (MSc) and Soil Science (PhD) from U of Saskatchewan.  She has been awarded an Ontario Early Researcher Award\, and Canada Research Chair for her work investigating microbial communities and microbial processes driving the global processes that help support life on Earth.  Kari is the Editor-in-Chief for the Canadian Journal of Microbiology\, Past-President of the Canadian Society of Microbiologists and Co-Executive Director of Soils@Guelph\, a knowledge mobilization and outreach initiative where she shares her passion about the importance of soils with the public. \n Webinar: \nJoin from PC\, Mac\, iPad\, or Android: \nhttps://adelaide.zoom.us/j/88990835328?pwd=uWXNmQb3NcNUcd15t43KVLtq9PTV2i.1 \nPasscode:911591 URL:https://www.thewaite.org/event/wri-seminar-series-dr-kari-dunfield-is-from-school-of-environmental-sciences-university-of-guelph-canada/ LOCATION:Auditorium\, Plant Research Centre\, 2b Hartley Grove\, Urrbrae\, South Australia\, 5064\, Australia CATEGORIES:Visiting Speaker Seminars,What's what @ Waite,WRI END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Adelaide:20251113T100000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Adelaide:20251113T110000 DTSTAMP:20261023T130627 CREATED:20250825T082013Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250901T105051Z UID:29050-1763028000-1763031600@www.thewaite.org SUMMARY:Joint WRI and Crawford Fund Seminar: Dr. Philip Pardey - Rethinking investments in Agri-Food innovation DESCRIPTION:Presenter: Dr. Phil Pardey \nTitle: Rethinking Investments in Agri-Food Innovation \n Philip Pardey has been at the University of Minnesota since 2002. He is a Distinguished Global Professor of Science and Technology Policy in the Department of Applied Economics\, and Director of the GEMS Informatics Center. GEMS brings together the University’s College of Food\, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences (CFANS) and the Minnesota Supercomputing Institute to develop and deploy computational systems that address complex problems to unlock innovation in the agri-food sector and foster data-driven public-private partnerships. Previously he was a senior research fellow at IFPRI (International Food Policy Research Institute)\, Washington D.C. and ISNAR (International Service for National Agricultural Research)\, The Hague\, Netherlands. \nPhilip’s career has focused on informing agricultural R&D policies and practices and enabling data-driven innovation that promotes sustainable productivity growth in the food and agricultural sectors worldwide. He is a Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) and of the Agricultural and Applied Economics Association\, Distinguished Fellow and Past President of the Australasian Agricultural and Resource Economics Society\, Distinguished Life Member of the International Association of Agricultural Economists\, and winner of the Siehl Prize for Excellence in Agriculture. He has authored more than 430 books\, articles\, and papers (https://gems.umn.edu/gems-team/philip-pardey). \nWebinar details \nJoin from PC\, Mac\, iPad\, or Android: \nhttps://adelaide.zoom.us/j/86201067776?pwd=9NFs3GCwltvYPVZbKkH8PpO3adKbYF.1 \nPasscode:603582 URL:https://www.thewaite.org/event/joint-wri-and-crawford-fund-seminar-dr-philip-pardey-rethinking-investments-in-agri-food-innovation/ LOCATION:Auditorium\, Plant Research Centre\, 2b Hartley Grove\, Urrbrae\, South Australia\, 5064\, Australia CATEGORIES:Visiting Speaker Seminars,WRI END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Adelaide:20251023T100000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Adelaide:20251023T110000 DTSTAMP:20261023T130627 CREATED:20250921T031200Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250921T031243Z UID:29203-1761213600-1761217200@www.thewaite.org SUMMARY:WRI Seminar Series: Dr Nicole Thompson - Plant and Health Diagnostics\, SARDI DESCRIPTION:Dr Nicole Thompson – Program Leader\, Plant Health & Diagnostics\, SARDI\nTitle: SARDI’s Plant Health and Diagnostics Program \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Abstract: TBA \nBio: Dr Thompson has over 20 years of research and expertise in plant pathology\, disease diagnostics and biosecurity management. She has specialist expertise in plant virology with a background in genetics\, diagnostics and management of plant diseases. \nNicole has a passion for outreach and education and strives to manage a research portfolio that delivers real results for the South Australian agriculture sector. The Plant Health and Diagnostics Program works with all major primary industries in SA to identify and mitigate disease threats and preserve best practice in plant disease management. \nResearch interests \n\nPlant Pathology\, specialist in virology\nMolecular diagnostics of pathogens\nSoil biology\nIntegrated disease management URL:https://www.thewaite.org/event/wri-seminar-series-dr-nicole-thompson-plant-and-health-diagnostics-sardi/ LOCATION:Plant Research Centre Auditorium\, South Australia\, Australia CATEGORIES:SARDI,WRI END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Adelaide:20251022T173000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Adelaide:20251022T200000 DTSTAMP:20261023T130627 CREATED:20251006T130201Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251006T130219Z UID:29313-1761154200-1761163200@www.thewaite.org SUMMARY:AUSS Women in Space Panel DESCRIPTION:Welcome to our inaugural ✨ Women in Space ✨ panel event brought to you by the Adelaide University Space Society!This special evening will showcase the brilliant women driving innovation and discovery in South Australia’s space sector. Hear directly from leaders across research\, engineering\, business\, and technology as they share their journeys\, challenges\, and visions for the future of space. \nThe night will feature engaging panel discussions followed by an open networking session and is a chance to connect with students\, industry representatives\, and the inspiring panelists themselves. Whether you’re curious about the local space scene\, exploring career pathways\, or passionate about diversity and opportunities for women in space\, this is your opportunity to learn\, connect\, and be inspired. \n📍 Location: Stone & Chalk\, Lot Fourteen📅 Date: Wednesday\, October 22nd⌚ Time: 5:30pm – 8:30pm \nGrab your tickets now for just $5 and secure your place 🎫 (Only $3 for AUSS Members\, enter your phone number as the discount code!)  \nFood and drinks included with your ticket! \nMassive thank you to our incredible sponsors 👏 \nSupernova Tier: Silentium Defence \nNebula Tier: South Australian Space Industry Centre\, Engineers Australia\, KPMG\, Boeing\, Nova Systems and Southern Launch URL:https://www.thewaite.org/event/auss-women-in-space-panel/ LOCATION:Stone & Chalk Startup Hub CATEGORIES:Plants for Space,Women of Waite,WRI END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR