Knowledge in scientific fields is built up piece by piece, over decades if not centuries. Some researchers contribute a few drops to the bucket before moving on to other things, while others accumulate an ocean of knowledge over a lifetime of hard work.
This month we celebrate two giants in our biosecurity community, both of whom are preparing to (at least semi-) retire in the next few years. Professor Rosie Bradshaw (Massey University) and Associate Professor Matt Templeton (Plant & Food Research) are both plant pathology experts and will be leaving long-lasting legacies once they step back from the microscope.
Another thing they have in common is a connection to Dr Carl Mesarich from Massey University, who studied under Matt and has shared a lab with Rosie for almost a decade.
Carl says “Matt has been a long-standing leader in the field of plant pathology and has significantly contributed to our understanding of how pathogenic fungi and bacteria interact with their host plants at the molecular level.
Dr Carl Mesarich, reflecting on a journey shaped by two remarkable mentors.
“I have worked with Matt for quite some time, having completed both an MSc and PhD under his supervision in 2007 and 2012. Since 2015, we have also worked together on several BioProtection Research Centre and Bioprotection Aotearoa projects, so it’s fair to say that he’s had a major role in shaping my career! He has such a positive, uplifting nature, and I really enjoy his approach to deciphering the unknown in plant pathology.”
Read more here about Matt Templeton’s career and future aspirations
“Rosie is a highly regarded world leader in the field of forest pathology,” Carl says. “Her research, which has been pioneering on many fronts (especially given the challenging nature of working with gymnosperm pathosystems), has set a solid foundation for controlling Dothistroma needle blight, kauri dieback, and other forest diseases in the future.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed working with Rosie, whether that be on specific research projects or co-supervising postgraduate students and postdocs. I still can’t quite believe how productive we have been as a team! She is such a caring and supportive person and, for me, has been the best mentor I could have ever asked for.”
Read more here about Rosie Bradshaw’s career and future aspirations
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