Natalie Sawyer | AgriFutures Australia Skip to main content

Natalie Sawyer

My love for Agriculture began when spending time on friends cropping properties at a young age. My interests grew when I first chose Agriculture as a subject in year 9. After moving to Barker College, the support from teaching staff encouraged me to pursue a career in the industry. I have since moved to Armidale and am in my third year of studying a Bachelor of Rural Science at the University of New England. I place a high level of importance on the time I get to spend on-farm, and it has greatly cemented the passion I have for the industry.

I am passionate about innovation regarding the creation of food and fibre for a growing population within the current Australian climate. Genetic improvement through biotechnologies and precision ag techniques are main points of intrigue for me and I am looking forward to choosing an Honours project that aligns with these interests.

When I finish my degree, I would love to be involved in research and development that aims to improve cropping precision, efficiency, resilience and sustainability, particularly carbon sequestration.

It is such an honour to be awarded a Horizon Scholarship, and I am eager to make valuable connections, gain hands-on experience in work placements, and hear the perspectives of future and current industry leaders who are passionate about the Agricultural industry.

I am so grateful to be given the opportunity to work with the Grains Research & Development Corporation (GRDC) as they are at the forefront of innovative research into improving productivity in the Australian grains industry. I am very excited to gain a deeper knowledge from leading professionals at GRDC and make valuable connections in an industry which aligns with my interests and career aspirations.