Harriet Foster

Lorna Casselton Memorial Scholarship

Joining us from: UK (New Forest)

Interdisciplinary Life and Environmental Science Landscape Award (ILESLA) (2025)

I am passionate about food security and advancing our understanding of plant pathology.

I completed my undergraduate degree in Biology at the University of Bristol, followed by a Master’s by Research in Molecular Mycology with Dr Andy Bailey. My thesis, ‘Characterising the role of transcription factors in Zymoseptoria tritici asexual sporulation’, allowed me to develop my interest in molecular plant-microbe interactions. Alongside my research, I am also committed to science communication and outreach. During my time at Bristol, I worked collaboratively with many local businesses and organisations including Thatchers, The Royal Bath and West Society, and Bristol Botanic Garden, advocating for wild bee conservation, sustainable cider production and improved fungicide practices.

Thus, I am particularly interested in developing and applying my current knowledge of plant and microbial science to real-world agricultural and environmental challenges. As a first year DPhil student on ILESLA, I am currently undertaking diverse research rotations in the Flashman lab, investigating PCO manipulation and rice flood tolerance, and the Preston lab with Diamond Light Source, exploring the effects of metal hyperaccumulation on Pseudomonas syringae infection. ILESLA also supports an ongoing team project with the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, developing decision engine software to automate seed germination and storage protocols.

Outside of my studies, I enjoy crochet, reading mysteries and many cinema trips. I love exploring and hiking in the local area (and beyond!). St Cross College has been an incredibly welcoming, diverse and exciting environment to be a part of, and I have loved meeting so many people who both share my interests and introduce me to new ones.

Receiving the Lorna Casselton Memorial Scholarship is an honour. Its support and associated network have been invaluable in enabling me to pursue a career in plant health research and sustainable agriculture. I am very grateful.