Dr Bosibori Bett | Finding solutions to crop production challenges

We spoke with Dr Bett about her professional background and career highlights and learned why she chooses to encourage and champion young women in STEM to stand up and remain ‘unshakeable’, and to celebrate each win along the way.

What inspired you to pursue your area of work/research?

My love for agricultural research begun when I saw my dad, Mr Andrew Michieka (a bacteriologist), collect sick potato tubers and tomato fruits, dissect them and observe them under a microscope. I found that fascinating. These samples would later grow into whole plants in a greenhouse, and I was intrigued. Inspired by his work, I sought to pursue a career in Agriculture, to quest for solutions to crop production challenges.

Why is your work important?

My desire has been to contribute to the global challenge of food and security. In my early career, I sought to provide realistic interventions to crop production constraints. I targeted farmers in small scale (smallholder) farming systems because a) they face unique challenges and b) food security begins at household level. Challenges include nearly 100 percent crop losses per small production area attributed to pests and diseases. My current focus contributes to the delivery of technical capacity building initiatives in Southeast Asia to enhance regional biosecurity, trade and market access opportunities between Australia and its trading partners. By strengthening capacity to detect pests and diseases, we are ensuring that these pests and diseases are controlled thereby minimising potential damage they could cause.

What are some of your career highlights?

I am outcome oriented, and for me the delivery of agricultural projects to obtain tangible outputs and small sustainable changes has been quite exciting! A few examples include developing rapid tools to test for plant diseases; use of rapid techniques to multiply plant seedlings for adequate supply to farmers is the ultimate. My contribution in addressing unique challenges faced by farmers has been rewarding, with a summary delivered in my TEDxCanberraWomen2021 talk. Other highlights include contributing to the Fall Armyworm Continuity Plan for the Australian grains industry; co-presenting a paper on sexual and gender minorities in Agricultural research; and the development of a grain legume protected against a common pest, the cowpea pod borer (Maruca).

You volunteer in a number of organisations, particularly with a focus of mentoring young women. What motivates you to do this?

My previous experience motivates me to uplift women. I can attest to the lack of support in my career progression. On the flip side, I have seen first-hand the benefits of being uplifted and engaged with mentors. There is a huge gap between men and women in terms of leadership opportunities, remuneration etc. And I believe the first step to address this is encouraging women to believe in themselves, to have courage, raise their hands and take the initiative to participate, otherwise, they shall miss out! I am hoping that by engaging with many of us, we share diverse experiences, and share tips and tactics to navigate through life’s challenges. “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another” (Proverbs 27:17).

What is one skill you couldn’t live without and why?

There are a few. Firstly, collaboration and networking! I am an advocate of networking, collaborative partnership, and teamwork! All my past achievements have been through networking and working collaboratively as a well-oiled machine. For me, nothing beats this.

Secondly, I’d say writing! I have found that writing to express my ideas, problems, and solutions keeps a record for my information and reference. Writing affirms my thoughts and is an advocate in my absentia. This is quite powerful.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?

When life gives you lemons, make lemonade.

What advice would you give STEM especially women alumni?

Women in STEM, stand up and remain ‘unshakeable’! You too can solve the science and math problems just like your counterparts. Also, celebrate your wins, celebrate your achievements, and walk with your head high up!

Do you have a question for Bosibori? Connect on LinkedIn or send a tweet to @BosiboriBett.