Title: DPI Postgraduate Program invests in biological control research
[DPI News 08/06/09] DPI’s Raelene Kwong is undertaking a PhD on a full-time basis with the support of the department’s Postgraduate Program. The aim of Raelene’s research is to develop a new biocontrol program against the weed, arrowhead (Sagittaria platyphylla). Arrowhead is an aquatic weed with potential to cause serious agricultural and environmental impact in southern New South Wales and northern Victoria
Raelen's PhD models the determinants of weed abundance and the potential impact of introduced natural enemies. Her thesis aims to use ecological theory and experimental tools to address issues associated with agent selection used in the biological control process.
Raelene is the Invertebrate Science Section Leader based at Frankston. During the past 18 years she has worked as a research officer on a range of weed and pest insect projects. Her area of expertise is in biological control of weeds, and she currently oversees the management of the Invertebrate Sciences staff based at DPI-Frankston.
If you would like more information about the DPI Postgraduate Program please contact Amber Connor on ph 5226 4736, 0447 347 719 or via email amber.connor@dpi.vic.gov.au.
