T&G Global has announced Francis Ferrada-Hartley, a Master's student at Massey University, as the recipient of the 2024 Edward Turner Horticulture Futures Grant. The grant, valued at $10,000, aims to support emerging leaders in the horticulture sector. Adrienne Sharp, T&G's Head of Corporate Affairs, highlighted the high caliber of applications received and Ferrada-Hartley's innovative approach to pest and disease management as key factors in his selection.
Ferrada-Hartley's research investigates the prevalence of leaf mold in resistant tomato varieties within New Zealand's commercial glasshouses, a critical issue for the industry. Originally from Chile, Ferrada-Hartley has a background in horticultural science from Massey University and experience in protected cropping businesses, including a current position at T&G Fresh.
Expressing his gratitude, Ferrada-Hartley said, "I feel extremely honored and grateful to be awarded this year's grant; I almost couldn't believe it. The Edward Turner Horticulture Futures Grant will enable the expansion of the scope of my Master's research project, by allowing access to crucial elements for the identification and characterization of the pathogen of interest such as PCR and DNA kits, and access to genome sequencing technologies." He further emphasized the grant's role in advancing his goal to become an industry leader and underscored the importance of the food industry's commitment to safety, stability, and sustainability.
Source: T&G Global