Geneticist

Melissa Stephen's job is to translate complex ideas and data into information that is quick for farmers to understand and use to make decisions about their herd.

Studying at Lincoln University, Melissa wanted to be a rural banker but became more and more interested in animal science, so started taking animal science papers.

“I find genetics really interesting. It’s an exciting field to be part of and is moving forward at a million miles per hour!”

Richard George studied a bachelor of agri-science at Lincoln University, which served as an ideal platform to not only learn about but experience the magnitude of career opportunities available in the agricultural sector.

After graduation and a few years of seed industry experience, Richard specialised further by undertaking a PhD to ‘future proof’ himself in a science-orientated industry that is constantly evolving.

His role involves a diversity of jobs, ranging from operating farm machinery, right through to planning and carrying out genetic experiments.