Rachel brings over 15 years of experience in plant pathology, biosecurity and diagnostics to the role. Rachel has worked in senior advisory, diagnostic and research roles at Agriculture Victoria, as part of the Chief Plant Health Officer’s unit and Microbial Sciences, Pests and Diseases branch.

The national and international research that Rachel has collaborated on has focused on pathogens of biosecurity significance (e.g., Xylella fastidiosa, Candidatus Liberibacter solnanacearum (CLso) and Erwinia amylovora) and has influenced Australian and global diagnostic protocols, sampling strategies and surveillance.

Rachel is an internationally recognised phytopathogenic bacteria specialist with peer reviewed publications and track record in successful grant applications. She actively builds collaborative partnerships with various stakeholders to achieve mutually beneficial outcomes.