Associate Professor Robert Clark from The Australian National University (ANU) College of Business and Economics’ (CBE’s) Research School of Finance, Actuarial Studies and Statistics is part of a cross-disciplinary team recently awarded over half a million dollars in research funding through the 2022 ARC Linkage Projects scheme.
ANU College of Health and Medicine’s (CHM’s) Professor Kathryn Glass is leading the project team, which also includes CHM’s Associate Professor Aparna Lal as well as Dr Mahdi Parsa and Dr Belinda Barnes from the Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF).
The investigators will use their collective expertise to develop statistical and mathematical models that track and report pests and diseases detected within Australia. Their collaboration will ultimately enhance national biosecurity surveillance.
The team will make their systems accessible via software developed for decision-makers, and generalisable approaches that address rapidly increasing risks. In doing so, they will make a valuable contribution towards keeping key viruses, bacteria, parasites and pests away from Australian soil.
Throughout the project, Robert will use his extensive experience in sample surveys, statistical economy and applied statistics to help his STEM peers identify pathogens that, if undetected, can have severe consequences for Australia’s agricultural industries, environment and public health.
Congratulations Robert and team!
The College is always keen to explore research collaborations with the public and private sector and to reconnect with alumni. Please get in touch if you would like to know more about partnering with us.