Bachelor of Science (Honours) and PhD

Current employment: Water Quality Scientist, Auckland Council

School: Hamilton Girls' High School 1999-2003

Training institute: Lincoln University 2004-2007

DairyNZ Scholarship recipient: 2004-2007

Laura’s career pathway has been an interesting one. After graduating from Lincoln University, she worked as an environmental consultant for two years. “During this time I realised my true interest was scientific research, so I undertook a PhD in Soil Science, which got me back to my passion for applied research.” Laura’s PhD topic investigated nitrogen cycling dynamics and losses from urine patch deposition and fertiliser application in dairy farming systems.

Laura’s love of research helped her land the ideal job, a scientist position within Auckland Council’s Research and Evaluation Unit. “The PhD study I did with AgResearch and Lincoln University was key to giving me options and employability in this environmental science area.”

The new skills and experience Laura is learning at Auckland Council allow her to continue developing her career in science and gain new experience in the policy space. The water quality scientist position offers a variety of field work, water quality monitoring and reporting. Laura is also involved in project management, collaborating with researchers, presenting data and research to community groups and conferences on Auckland environmental matters, as well as writing reports and scientific papers.

“Soil science, land use and water quality are all intricately connected and will continue to have relevance to the agricultural and dairy sectors. Having experience and knowledge in all three is a great career advantage.”