She coordinates a Citrus Pathology Program that enables government and industry to combat citrus biosecurity threats and supports industry sustainability. This is achieved by having the capability to detect all described citrus diseases, understanding the diseases within our borders to minimise their impact and preparing for the arrival of new diseases.

Nerida also provides scientific expertise to Australian and international teams working on multi-disciplinary citrus projects. Nerida joined the department in 1999 after completion of a BScAgr (Hons 1, Medal) and PhD at the University of Sydney.

Current projects

• Protecting the health of Australian citrus through disease-free propagation material
• Improving diagnostics and biosecurity for graft-transmissible diseases in citrus
• Preparedness and management of huanglongbing to safeguard the future of the citrus industry in Australia, China and Indonesia
• Integrated disease management of black core rot in citrus
• National Tree Crop Intensification in Horticulture