Rebecca Ford

Professor Rebecca Ford is a prominent academic and researcher at Griffith University, serving as Dean of the Griffith Graduate Research School and a faculty member of the School of Environmental Sciences. Her research focuses on food security, sustainable crop production, and the application of genomics and nanotechnology to combat plant pathogens. She holds a PhD in molecular plant pathology from the University of Melbourne and a BSc in Biochemistry and Biology from Griffith University.

Her work integrates molecular breeding, disease diagnostics, and environmental sustainability, with a strong emphasis on industry collaboration. Key initiatives include developing genomic tools for crop improvement, biosensor technologies for pathogen detection, and strategies to enhance agricultural resilience. She has secured significant funding from organizations like the Australian Research Council (ARC), Sugar Research Australia, and Hort Innovation.

Professor Ford has supervised over 40 HDR students, many of whom now hold senior roles in academia and industry. She is a member of prestigious organizations like the International Climate Resilient Crop Genomics Consortium and the Australian Society of Plant Scientists. Her contributions align with global sustainability goals, particularly food security and climate action.

Current research includes advancing nano-biosensors for sugarcane disease diagnosis, genomic platforms for Australian horticulture, and climate-resilient crop systems. She also leads Griffith’s efforts to promote equity and diversity in science, reflecting her commitment to fostering inclusive academic environments.