The Emerging Researchers Network is designed to embed knowledge, skills, and networks to support the extension and adoption of research while developing future leaders of rural research.

The program was co-designed with current research candidates to be an evolution of HDR Engage and provide value to emerging researchers through:

• Three fully funded, in-person workshops – Gaining hands-on training and connect with peers, mentors, and industry leaders.
• Exclusive mentoring and training – Participating in the Australasia-Pacific Extension Network (APEN) mentoring program.
• Monthly online community of practice (CoP) meetings – Staying engaged, sharing ideas, and receiving guidance.
• Presentation of research – Building valuable relationships and showcasing the work.
• Additional career-boosting opportunities – Mock interviews, science communication training, networking with professionals.

Emerging Researchers Network 2025

We are pleased to have the following researchers joining us as the inaugural 2025 cohort of the Southern NSW Innovation Hub's Emerging Researchers Network.

• Jewel Cabardo, Australian National University - Supporting the sustainability of agri-food value chains through farmer entrepreneurship
• Miltone (Kishiki) Kimori, Charles Sturt University - Social marketing, communication, and community development in a future with less water
• Nani Gopal Das, Charles Sturt University - Heat stress mitigation in lambs and sheep through feeding
• Pradeep Rai, Charles Sturt University - Regenerative Agriculture realities and addressing research gaps to inform farmers’ decision making on agricultural sustainability
• Rabin Dulal, Charles Sturt University - Using Artificial Intelligence (AI) in cattle identification and management to enhance resilience
• Yangfan Zhang, University of NSW - Machine learning integrated new agri-photovoltaics system (merging solar power and farming) for rural reform
• Zahra Ghoreishi, Australian National University - Sociotechnical imaginaries in the Murray-Darling Basin to enhance the adaptive capacity of farmers and communities
• Joseph Anumba, University of Canberra - Investigating the impact of environmental exposures on wellbeing outcomes (using advanced geostatistical and multilevel models)
• Mariam Khanam, Charles Sturt University - Addressing soil degradation and climate variability through cost-effective and sustainable methods for reducing salt stress and improving soil fertility
• Clytie Binder, University of Canberra - Holistic organic waste management to support resilient communities
• Tiarna Scerri, Charles Sturt University - Alternative treatment to antibiotics for bovine mastitis – susceptibility to which is exacerbated by drought and heat conditions

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