Dian Lindeque

"I'm a second-year BSc Biodiversity and Ecology student with a keen interest in the biotechnology of crop plants. My main goal is to contribute to the massive network of people across multiple disciplines who engineer plant systems for optimized production. Specifically, I want to look at how we can apply and manipulate case specific systems with biostimulants - such as derivatives of worm compost and seaweed – to act synergistically with mineral fertilizers. For me the main reasons why we should look to maximise the efficiency of crop production are firstly, to ensure food security for the human population. And secondly to conserve biodiversity by reducing the need to transform natural habitats into agricultural fields and plantations. My work at the Plant Holobiont Laboratory exposes me to the latest research techniques and procedures as well as providing interaction with people who have extensive experience in the field."