Top British soil scientist joins UWA

Science and Innovation Minister John Day has announced that leading UK scientist Professor Andrew Whiteley, who helped map the bacterial ecosystems of British soil in a world-first study, will relocate to Western Australia to lead an expert team at The University of Western Australia (UWA) in soil rehabilitation research.

Professor Whiteley’s work will be funded by a successful UWA application under the WA Government’s WA Research Fellowships Program. Day said the program attracts distinguished scientists and researchers from overseas or interstate to carry out work of strategic importance to the state.

“A strong foundation of knowledge and expertise is paramount to the continued growth and development of WA’s economy,” he said.

“Based at The University of Western Australia, Professor Whiteley will address issues of local importance, including new approaches to rehabilitating degraded environments on mine sites, and increasing agricultural production.

“His research into soil quality for sustainable mining practices will assist in balancing the environment with the economy and could also assist yields for our agricultural and pastoral sectors.”

“I'm delighted to receive a prestigious WA Fellowship and join the world-class and vibrant science base at UWA,” said Professor Whiteley.

“WA represents a globally unique biodiversity hot spot but with strong economic requirements from the environment. My research will work at this interface by developing new DNA-based environmental diagnostic technologies as well as developing innovative ways to engage WA residents through ‘citizen science’ projects.”

“WA will provide an ideal environment for Professor Whiteley to advance his work and also use the experience gained while working at the Centre for Ecology and Hydrology, the UK’s premier environmental research institute, to transfer skills to local researchers,” added Day.

Professor Whiteley is expected to take up his position at UWA in October.