Her studies have ranged from the use of mycorrhizal fungi to promote tree growth; the global movement of eucalyptus pathogens, soil and plant microbiomes; and the role of canker pathogens in stressed ecosystems. 

And she has contributed significantly to understanding of the pathogen Phytophthora cinnamomi – commonly known as dieback – described as one of the most significant threats to south-west Western Australia’s unique biodiversity, with more than 40% of native plant species considered susceptible to the disease. Professor Burgess has described more than 30 Phytophthora species, resulting in improved prevention and management strategies.  

Using climate projection models, she has identified ecosystems where dieback poses future risk – including the sub-Alpine regions of Australia.  

Professor Burgess is also one of the world’s foremost researchers in the field of pathogen population genetics and has designed microsatellite markers – molecular tools used for comparative mapping and evolutionary studies – that are among the first developed for fungal pathogens. 

In February 2024, she was appointed Executive Director of Murdoch University’s Harry Butler Institute – a collaborative research hub where scientists, government, the community and business work together to deliver the best possible conservation outcomes for delicate aquatic, air and land ecosystems, as well as research into integrated water, energy and waste technologies.  

Her focus on collaboration, partnering with universities and government organisations world-wide over the course of her academic career, will help drive the Institute’s sustainability research strategic and international reputation.   

Professor Burgess is a Fellow of the Australasian Plant Pathology Society, Chair of The Wetlands Centre Cockburn, and winner of Murdoch University’s Vice Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Research.  

She has published extensively and led collaborative projects across Australia, South Africa and Southeast Asia. Her plantation forestry work has involved a range of species with commercial application, including Eucalypt, Sandalwood and Acacia varieties. 

Professor Burgess has also helped train the next generation of plant pathologists, supporting numerous PhDs to completion.