Image: Annette Mwayawa (left) and Indigo Michael (right).
Welcome Indigo Michael
Indigo joined the Biocontrol & Molecular Ecology team at MWLR in July as a coordinator of the Pacific Natural Enemies – Natural Solutions (NENS) programme and is based at our Tāmaki site. Indigo has a background in microbial ecology, having recently completed an MSc at the University of Auckland examining the soil microbiome of kauri trees affected by kauri dieback (Phytophthora agathidicida) in the Waitākere Ranges in Auckland. Her thesis explored how soil bacteria can be used as biological indicators of pathogen presence, and used machine-learning models to determine whether these bacterial bioindicators can offer a quicker, more sensitive way to detect the pathogen in the environment.
After finishing her MSc, Indigo worked at Auckland University of Technology (AUT), where she used her molecular-based experience to look at the effects of different agricultural and horticultural practices on the fungal and bacterial communities in soil. She also worked on developing less destructive and quicker protocols for sampling mycorrhizal fungi from the roots of native trees.
Alongside her scientific work, Indigo has always had a passion for science education and mentoring. She taught in undergraduate labs at the University of Auckland and worked as both a mentor and a coordinator of the Tuākana programme, an inclusive learning environment for Māori and Pasifika science students. Indigo is excited to contribute to the meaningful work the NENS team carries out in the Pacific and is especially excited to meet new people and explore the diversity and knowledge the Pacific holds.
Welcome Annette Mwayawa
Annette also joined the team in early July this year, as a second coordinator for the Pacific NENS programme, and is based at our Lincoln site. Annette has a background in crop agronomy and recently completed a PhD in plant science. It was her interest in enhancing crop production that brought her to Lincoln University and New Zealand from Papua New Guinea. Her PhD focused on plant physiology and understanding the important aspects of canopy development that contribute to variability in maize grain yield.
Annette has spent most of her career at Papua New Guinea University of Natural Resources and Environment, teaching, engaging with industry-based research projects, and working with farmer groups to improve husbandry practices and farm-gate production. Her agronomy work has led to her involvement with invasive weeds and crop/plant health management in plantation crops and pasture forages.
With an enthusiasm for plants and a background in agriculture, Annette is relishing the chance to delve into and share the complexities of weed biocontrol, highlighting its benefits for both conservation and land productivity. Her new role at MWLR will involve assessing the establishment of biocontrol agents, introducing new ones where needed, and continuing the collaborative efforts with key partners and communities in the Pacific. She will take on the responsibilities of leading coordination activities in designated Pacific Island countries (Vanuatu, Samoa, Tonga, and the Marshall Islands), assist with media content and other science communication materials, get involved with database content improvements, and participate in insect rearing at Lincoln. She looks forward to contributing her skills and perspectives to make the programme a success.
Annette Mwayawa
