Following a successful referendum, the Foundation for Arable Research (FAR) is pleased to announce the appointment of Hannah Priergaard-Petersen who has been employed as a FAR Trials Officer following her stint as FAR summer scholar 2010/2011.
Hannah has recently completed a Bachelor of Science at Canterbury University majoring in Biological Sciences. Although Hannah will be working predominantly in the South Island she will be required to make occasional visits to Australia and the North Island to carry out trial assessments. With a specific interest in biosecurity and bio-control management, Hannah will be working closely with FAR CEO Nick Pyke in these areas; she will also assist Rob Craigie, FAR Project Manager with the development of AquaTRAC™, FAR’s irrigation decision support tool. Planning and assessing research trials, protocols, treatment and designs will be a key constituent of her role, with the management process of these trials such as application of nutrients, cultivation, water and agrichemical application. External research providers will liaise with Hannah where cooperative and coordinated research is applicable.
Having come from a sheep, beef and deer farm in Te Anau, Hannah is passionate about sustainable farming practices. “Having the opportunity to work with the arable sector, whilst still having the ability to work in the area of biosecurity is a fantastic opportunity for me to up-skill in this area to which I am so passionate about. I am currently researching biosecurity risks which could have adverse effects on the NZ arable industry if introduced; these include a number of weeds, pests and diseases which have had major impacts on arable industries in other parts of the world.
“I am thrilled to be working with the New Zealand arable industry and look forward to the opportunities that will arise in this exciting role.”