This month at CEAT, we welcomed Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC) Managing Director, Nigel Hart, and Head of Industry and Government Relations, Justin Crosby, to ANU to show off the University’s grains research and infrastructure capabilities.
While they were on campus, Nigel and Justin spoke to ANU College of Science researchers and CEAT staff about the GRDC’s focus and strategy, before hearing from the researchers about the research they are doing and how it relates to the GRDC’s objectives and key investment targets.
Nigel said, under his leadership, the GRDC remains committed to ensuring profitability and sustainability for farmers with the investments it makes. While he does not expect to make any radical changes in the way the GRDC operates, he noted a desire from research partners for more engagement with the organisation, especially in the lead up to tenders.
Following these engaging presentations, they undertook a tour of the National Collaborative Research Infrastructure Strategy (NCRIS) laboratory, growth capsules and Phenospex system. They also learnt about the new ARC Training Centre for Future Crops Development, potential ARC Plant Biosecurity Training Centre, and the education and training opportunities coordinated by CEAT.
Thank you to Nigel and Justin for making time to visit and to the ANU researchers and staff who assisted in making their visit an action-packed one. We look forward to bringing the University’s diverse expertise and capability in support of the important work the GRDC are doing to support Australian growers.