As the project postdoc on the Soil CRC soil constraints modelling project

• identified key soil constraints priorities that need to be represented in DSS for partner grower groups through targeted workshops
• improved scientific understanding in key processes in soil-plant relations
• incorporated the mechanistic and empirical understanding of such processes into DSS with relevant codes and module files developed. This includes:
  • linking lab-measured phosphorus values to conceptual pool of labile phosphorus in APSIM
  • enabling nitrogen volatilisation in APSIM
  • modelling the effects of water repellency on crop yield in sandy soils
  • updating the Gypsy software from a Windows-based program to a web-based tool with major improvements on its functionalities

• delivery of tutorials targeted on APSIM training
• monitoring and moderating online discussion forum
• updating tutorial simulations from APSIM classic to Next Gen

• delivery of workshops to enhance students’ understanding on lecture topics through facilitated discussions and exercises
• monitoring and moderating online discussion forum to actively promote indepth thinking and discussion

Responsibilities

• Assisted in the preparation for experiments and guided students to the successful completion of relevant laboratory and glass house experiments required for course LAND3005 – Soil Plant Relationships
• As a student ambassador in various events including Open Day, Experience Science, Future Experiences in Agriculture, Science and Technology (FEAST), Sunflower competition, and the University Network for Tropical Agriculture (UNTA) meeting:
  • helped to ensure international senior academics an enjoyable visit to UQ
  • provided relevant advice and information to current and prospective students
  • promoted agriculture and soil sciences, and the vibrant university life and culture

Responsibilities

• Designed program-focused tutorials rather than course-focused tutorials to:
  • provide advices and feedbacks to students on their courses and assessments;
  • challenge and extend their understanding of the fields of study by linking course contents to current discussions and movements in literature and in relevant industries.
• Adopted an integrated approach to:
  • demonstrate course relevance within the program structure
  • highlight practical skills in professional environment

14-week industrial placement on the impact of different tillage practices on arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal colonization and root lesion nematodes in Queensland, Australia

• actively involved in scientific research and activities such as field day
• produced quality report, diagrams and charts for the project
• acquired practical skills including soil and plant sampling, soil science and biological laboratory techniques, data management and analysis using Excel and GenStat