Researcher goes from gems to hens with CQU
From jeweller to barista and now an agriculture researcher, the career of CQUniversity PhD candidate Maria Whitton demonstrates the power of embracing new education opportunities.
Arriving in Australia in 2012 from Argentina, Maria’s study journey first began at CQU TAFE where she enrolled in a jewellery-making course.
With a desire to integrate into Queensland culture, she said the course was a great transition back in education, advancing her English skills and creating connections in the community.
“I first completed a Certificate IV and a Diploma in Visual Arts at CQU’s Rockhampton campus,” Maria explained.
“A few years later I opened a coffee shop at the Southside library with my sister - but the warmth of the people, and the joy of creation at CQU spurred me to pursue further study.”
When Maria’s thirst changed from coffee to knowledge in 2018, she decided to enrol in a Bachelor of Agriculture, a decision that launched her career in scientific research.
“One of the first units I had was about research and I really enjoyed it,” Maria said.
“This newfound interest led to projects like growing mushrooms and working on black sesame trials with the team at CQU’s Central Queensland Innovation and Research Precinct (CQIRP).
“The turning point came in 2019 during a CQIRP industry placement when I was involved poultry research. I found that I was not only interested in it but also good at it.
“I had so much fun doing laboratory work that I stayed more hours than the 400 needed for the placement.”
It was during this placement that Maria learned about the Elevate Program, a scholarship opportunity for research higher degree (RHD) students that provide development and research for industry and for emerging leaders in specialised fields.
Under the mentorship of researchers Professor Dana Stanley and Dr Yadav Bajagai, Maria embarked on her master’s research which focused on recovering pastureland affected by pasture dieback.
“Pasture dieback a condition that kills grass pastures. The causes of are still unknown but it is affecting farmers across Queensland. It affects all kinds of grass and reduces the quality and availability of pasture for cattle,” Maria explained.
“This research into this issue is of great significance to the agricultural community and the animal industry as it affects the feed available for animals and causes economic loss to farmers.
“I looked mostly into the microbiota of soil and tried three different organic and sustainable products.
As part of the Elevate Program, Maria was provided the opportunity to work with Scientific Advisor Dr David Tomilson at UNME P/L who funded the scholarship.
“Dr Tomilson provided his expertise and valuable insight throughout my master's journey,” Maria explained.
“Specifically, he suggested that I try organic products to remediate the dieback.”
Dr Tomilson acknowledged the support the CQU researchers provided in tackling the complex challenges of pasture dieback, combining the university’s multidisciplinary expertise with the industrial tools available in their company operations.
“I am very fortunate to have been involved with Maria and Professor Stanley. I brought the project to the attention of Professor Stanley who molded it with her expertise in microbiology to add to my soil physics and chemistry," Dr Tomilson said.
“My friend and co-inventor of RC3 TM (a commercial plant growth stimulant) Robert Alder, was interested in the effects of his patented product with others on reversing pasture dieback, a major problem in the husbandry of beef cattle in Queensland.
“We also included Sea Minerals, a product of Olsson Industries, used in remineralising soil. These were the industrial tools we brought to the table which were included in Maria’s experiments.”
While more research is needed to find a permanent solution to pasture dieback, Maria said the study outcomes will contribute to formulating new strategies in agriculture.
Beginning her PhD with CQU late last year, Maria has remained committed her work in the agricultural industry with aspirations to develop solutions that can benefit chicken farmers and the environment.
The Elevate Program has continued to support her PhD research with funding by AgriFutures.
“This project is kind of related as it is still microbiology, but this time I am investigating chicken production. I've always liked chickens!
“I relish the camaraderie and the opportunity to engage with diverse projects. Research is my passion, and I'm eager to see where it takes me.”
For more information on the Elevate Program, email research-scholarships@cqu.edu.au
