Esther Walker
Research Scientist
My role in the department
Esther is a Research Scientist supporting senior scientists in a GRDC funded project involving the genetic control of stagonospora nodorum blotch (SNB). SNB is a fungal disease that has a significant impact in Western Australia, particularly in the southern region. At the request of wheat breeders, they aim to develop wheat germplasm with enhanced resistance to SNB, develop markers to track SNB resistance and phenotypically screen wheat germplasm in a range of environments.
My background
Esther has over 16 years of experience in agricultural research at DPIRD. She has worked extensively in the development and implementation of molecular tools for use in both wheat and barley germplasm. Her expertise has allowed close work with wheat and barley breeders in pre-breeding activities.
Projects
- Effective genetic control of Stagonospora nodorum blotch. GRDC funded project - DAW00248
Key Expertise
Stagonospora nordorum blotch, wheat genetic improvement, pre-breeding
Qualifications
- BSc in Biological Sciences and Molecular Biology with Honours, Murdoch University, 2002