Nicola Wunderlich

Nicola Wunderlich is Associate Head (Research & Graduate Studies) in the School of Agricultural, Environmental and Veterinary Sciences at Charles Sturt University. She holds a PhD in Plant Pathology and leads translational One Health research addressing complex regional challenges in plant and animal health, food security, and sustainable agricultural development across Southeast Asia and the Pacific. Her work bridges biological, social, and systems sciences, emphasizing equity, accessibility, and community engagement.

• Dip Agribusiness
• Cert IV (FarmMgmt)
• BAppSc (Ag)
• BSc Hons
• PhD in Plant Pathology, Charles Sturt University

Nicola's research centers on One Health, food security, community-based plant and animal health, and decolonizing research practices. She focuses on co-designed capacity building, knowledge transfer, and biosecurity in remote and regional communities. Her interdisciplinary approach integrates biology, sociology, education, gender studies, and systems analysis to address real-world challenges in agricultural development.

Her recent publications highlight a strong trend toward interdisciplinary and applied research, particularly in sustainable agriculture, Indigenous-led climate resilience, and digital training platforms for paraveterinary workers. Topics include integrated weed management, online education delivery, and institutional development of social sciences within agricultural research institutes. Her work consistently emphasizes collaboration, equity, and practical impact.

• Travel Award, International Rice Research Institute, 2012
• Recipient, 'Stories of One Basin' Grant for Indigenous-Led Climate Research, 2024

Nicola actively supervises graduate research and leads major collaborative projects with government, NGOs, and international stakeholders. She has secured competitive grants, including the 2024 'Stories of One Basin' grant, and contributes to research team management and peer review. Her external roles include postdoctoral work at the International Rice Research Institute and consultancy with INSEAD-related groups, reflecting her global engagement in agricultural innovation and development.

She is actively involved in the Gulbali Institute and contributes to initiatives such as the Pacific Paravet Training Project and the development of social sciences within agricultural research frameworks. Her work fosters strong networks across Australia, Southeast Asia, and the Pacific, promoting equitable, community-driven solutions in agricultural and animal health.