In 2013 I started my career as a research assistant for Prof Terry Aveling at the Microbiology and Plant Pathology Department while completing my MSc (Agric) Plant Pathology degree under supervision of Prof T. Aveling and Nico Labuschagne. My MSc studies focused on the efficacy of plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) to enhance maize seedling growth and vigour and to control the root pathogen Rhizoctonia solani. The study included the evaluation of various formulations of PGPR and their long term survival on a novel organic product. I graduated with distinction in 2014 and continued my career as a research assistant.

As a research assistant I work together with Prof Terry Aveling and various post graduate students from the seed laboratory. I am responsible for updating the ISTA electronic database of seed transmitted diseases as part of the EU FP7 TESTA (Development of seed treatment methods, evidence for seed transmission and assessment of seed health - EU FP7 KBBE.2012.1.2-05) project and perform several administration duties. I also guide and assist various undergraduate students in conducting and writing up of their final year Plant Pathology research projects and help with editing of MSc student dissertations. Occasionally I am also involved in various research projects for external companies.