Scientist

What does a typical day in your role look like?

A typical day depends on the season. It might involve viewing new breeding seedlings in the orchard, tasting potential new cultivars, or analysing data. Each task is tied to understanding the goals of the breeding program and integrating new technologies to help the team measure traits—either destructively or non-destructively—and use that data to make informed decisions.

How did you get into this role?

I was drawn to plant breeding and genetics because it allowed me to work both in the lab and outdoors. After 20 years in the kiwifruit breeding program, I’ve specialised in identifying, developing and applying new technologies to help breed and select improved cultivars more efficiently.

Did you need to study for this role, if so, what did you study?

Plant Breeding and Plant Genetics.

What do you enjoy most about your work?

I enjoy being curious. Exploring new technologies and figuring out how they can be used in a breeding program means constantly asking questions and looking at things from different perspectives.

What’s something unique, surprising, or fun about your role or team?

One unique aspect of this role is the wide range of collaborations. I work with breeders, chemists, engineers, data scientists, database developers and technology companies—each bringing something different to the table.

What advice would you give someone interested in your role or career path?

Keep asking questions and build connections with people from different backgrounds. Collaboration is key.

Anything else that you would like to add?

The kiwifruit industry is a very exciting space to be part of!