Biography

Agricultural research scientist and science communicator passionate about fostering transdisciplinary collaboration to deliver research outcomes that support a profitable, resilient and sustainable agricultural sector.

At the age of 31 Jo received a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for her service to agriculture through her advocacy and support of young people, volunteering and contribution to dairy research.

Passionate about research that delivers tangible benefits for farmers, Jo currently works as a research scientist for Agriculture Victoria on the DairyBio initiative. Since obtaining a PhD in animal breeding and genetics from the University of New England in 2016, Jo’s work has focused on practical tools to illustrate the benefit of better herd-improvement decisions on farm. This includes 6 months as a visiting scientist at Teagasc Moorepark, Ireland on an Endeavour Postdoctoral Fellowship.

Jo has a history of active involvement across the wider agricultural sector, particularly in advocacy and support of young people in agriculture. Her volunteer contributions span 17 years and dozens of leadership roles across 14 not-for-profit organisations. Since 2013 she has volunteered with Action4Agriculture (formerly Picture You in Agriculture), including serving as the inaugural Chair of the Young Farming Champions Leadership Team and her current role as Deputy Chair board. A big believer in paying it forward, Jo dedicates a considerable portion of her spare time to speaking at schools and events, mentoring students and junior scientists and volunteering at agricultural shows. In 2020 Jo completed AICD's Foundations of Directorship Course.

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