FDI recently interviewed Dr Edward Barrett-Lennard, a leading WA scientist and researcher, about the growing need for more scientists and technicians to work in agricultural research.

Key points:

• Western societies are investing less in agriculture and food production, mainly because of a current abundance of food.
• In response to the need to feed a growing global population in the face of environmental factors like climate change, newer and better methods of agriculture and food production are needed.
• Developing and improving agricultural systems to enhance food production will require research teams, comprised of scientists, researchers and technicians, working more closely together.
• The small successes in agricultural research must be recognised and celebrated, as they will lead to more successful outcomes.