I am a Research Fellow with the NICM Health Research Institute at Western Sydney University, with my main area of interest being pharmacognosy (medicines that come from plants, fungi and other natural sources). I also head up the Scientific Advisory Board for United in Compassion, a medicinal cannabis charity focused on patient advocacy.
Why do you do it?
According to the World Health Organisation, over 70 per cent of the world's population utilise plants as a primary source of medicine. I can only imagine what untold medicines still exist out there that haven't been found yet that could potentially benefit all manner of diseases and health-related concerns.
Simply put, plants and fungi fascinate me - they take such simple, raw materials such as water, sunlight, minerals, decaying matter and carbon dioxide and make some of the most complex chemistry known to humankind. They really are a constant source of inspiration and reflection for me.
What do you love about the city you live in?
Sydney certainly is a bustling metropolis, but I can't say I really love that about it. That being said, most of my family lives in Sydney and I do love having them all close by.
Where did you go for your last holiday?
I travelled to the USA in February this year and had a wonderful time hiking into the White Mountains of California to find the Bristlecone Pines (Pinus longaeva), some of the oldest, living organisms on the planet. Some of them are over 4,600-years-old.
What's your favourite item of clothing?
Hiking boots. It either means I am working in the field or even better, hitting the trail and spending time in nature.
What was your favourite TV show when you were a kid?
I must admit I didn't watch much television growing up, but I did enjoy the Saturday morning cartoons every week.
If you could travel back in time for a day, where would you go?
Tough question. That would be a hard choice between going back to see who were the original builders of Gobekli Tepe in Turkey or visiting the Library of Alexandria in its prime.
If we were coming over to your place, what would you cook us?
I like to graze in the classic Mediterranean style, so a table filled with antipasto and tapas would definitely be on the cards.
What's the best lesson you've ever learned?
Your failures and mistakes can actually end up being your greatest teachers.
Tell us one thing about yourself that nobody else knows…
I am severely colourblind; makes working with plants quite a challenge. :)
Are you happy with your work/ life balance?
Not entirely. I tend to burn the midnight oil a little too much of late, but am blessed to say I love what I do. So it isn't so bad.
How do you define success?
Being able to love what you do without compromising on your personal beliefs or integrity; and if that can also help others, even better.
What's your spirit animal?
Wolf.
