Paul Edwards

Paul is interested in technological application and maximising efficiency in farm systems and has specialised in advancements in milking. His research in this area has significantly impacted the industry, leading to widespread adoption of flexible milking among farmers as one example.

He is closely connected to dairy farming, spending many weekends and holidays helping on his parents’ three farms in Northland. This upbringing has fostered a passion for finding achievable, well-rounded, on-farm solutions to help facilitate the adoption of innovations. Paul thrives on investigating real-world problems, collecting data, and presenting actionable insights to farmers. By collaborating closely with farmers, Paul has helped accelerate industry change, providing the necessary information for farmers to make informed decisions.

Paul says he particularly values the “light bulb moments, when farmers see how science can be applied successfully to their farming operations. He enjoys the dual satisfaction of rigorous scientific research and its practical application of research in diverse farming systems”.

Paul is passionate about exploring the future of farming through research projects which look 30 to 40 years ahead. He aims to prepare and forecast future farm systems and engages farmers in conversations about what lies ahead. While acknowledging the challenges and uncertainties of predicting the future, he believes that proactive research and dialogue can help shape a sustainable and innovative farming landscape.

Paul was supported by a DairyNZ scholarship while studying for his Bachelor of Science from Massey University, and his Ph.D., titled “efficient milking systems for pastoral dairy farms”, was awarded by Massey University in 2013, was partially conducted in Ireland.