I completed my honours degree in BSc Microbiology at the University of Pretoria in 2025 and currently pursuing my Masters in Microbiology. I am part of the Macadamia Protection Programme, working under the guidance of Prof. Gerda Fourie.

My research focuses on managing Husk Rot Disease in macadamia, specifically its causal agents, which include Calonectria, Diaporthe, and Colletotrichum. I aim to conduct disease risk models whereby I will assess the relative abundance of the pathogens at different phenological stages of the fruit. Furthermore, I will investigate the influence of relative humidity on infection dynamics to determine the conditions under which disease incidence peaks. Finally, I will test the inhibition efficacy of various biological control agents against all three pathogens, conducting assays both in vitroand in vivo.

I am excited for the journey ahead and the growth that comes with pursuing a Masters degree!