Our staff

Rajeev Varshney is responsible for providing oversight, overall direction for R&D activities, promoting, marketing, and raising funds for research operations and major equipment in the SABC. Rajeev is available to answer questions about the Centre and its operation, including incubation of companies and contract R&D.

Anu Chitikineni manages research operations, budget management and oversees data generation dealing with sequencing and genotyping technologies. In addition, Anu organises various events, seminars, training courses and capacity building activities for SABC in collaboration with the Centre for Crop and Food Innovation (CCFI).

Dave Berryman advises, assists, and trains researchers at SABC, and is also responsible for the day-to-day operation of the SABC laboratories, space management and basic data analytical support. Working with the Senior Technical Officer, Dave ensures that major equipment and computers are operational and that safety procedures are followed in SABC.

Frances Brigg coordinates lab maintenance and manages any safety issues in the Centre with the SABC Senior Science Manager. She also undertakes a major service role by running the DNA sequencing and fragment analysis and associated services while providing advice on all aspects of Sanger and Next Generation nucleic acid sequencing.

Huong Tran has laboratory experience in molecular genetics and biotechnology. She is responsible for basic genomics research activities such as DNA, RNA and library preparations and running state-of-art next generation sequencing and high-throughput genotyping technologies. She supports Senior Science Manager to generate sequencing and genotyping data for SABC users and clients.

Lillian Ryan, while working with Senior Science Manager, is responsible for procuring laboratory kits, reagents for SABC operations. She is also engaged with basic genomics research activities such as DNA, RNA and library preparations and running state-of-art next generation sequencing and high-throughput genotyping technologies

Joel Johnstone, under supervision of Senior Lab Manager, monitors and maintains SABC’s three grains research glasshouses, ensuring compliance, controlling pests and weeds. In addition, he manages the greenhouse bookings, irrigation, and fertilisation, assists in trial setup, and offers pest and weed control guidance. Joel also manages field trial bookings, performs site maintenance, and enjoys exploring new pest control methods, while ensuring that all the tools and machinery are professionally maintained.

With extensive experience in corporate communications, media management and media relations, Richard supports the communications activities of the WA State Agricultural Biotechnology Centre and the Centre for Crop and Food Innovation (Food Futures Institute).

Leona manages Professor Rajeev Varshney, and his schedule, arranging meetings and coordinating travel and engagements. She also assists Anu Chitikineni with workshops, conferences and centre visits.