Molecular biology, accounting, and forestry may seem an unlikely mix, but for Leanda Garvie, these fields came together in a remarkably cohesive way. Now a lecturer in Accounting at the University of the Sunshine Coast, Leanda completed her PhD in collaboration with the UniSC Forest Research Institute (FRI), blending her scientific curiosity with a passion for sustainability.

“When I was young, the things I loved were animals, nature, mechanics and how things worked,” she says. “In school, I wanted to be an engineer but was directed to science as 'girls don't do engineering!'”

That redirection took her into Applied Science, followed by an Honours in Natural Resource Science, where she investigated the population genetics of a crayfish species. The project led to a short stint as a Resource Ranger on K'gari and later into horticulture research with the Queensland Department of Primary Industries, working in plant breeding and pathology of strawberries and pineapples.

Later, Leanda decided to change course, completing a Master of Professional Accounting. A sessional tutoring opportunity at UniSC came at just the right time, and she was soon "lucky" to land a full-time role.

Soon, wanting to be "part of research that had real world impact," she started a PhD with the FRI. “I wanted to combine my love of science and nature with my accounting and business background, in some kind of sustainability-focused research,” she says.
 
“I connected straight away with a project that included waste management, climate change/emissions mitigation, renewable energy and economic sustainability…It just seemed to fit everything that I was passionate about (except animals!).”

Leanda’s PhD looked at “the contribution that forest residues, or unused biomass waste like small branches, could make towards the bioeconomy through the production of valuable products like bioenergy or even bioplastics."

“At times I felt out of my depth, but I enjoy learning new things and received so much encouragement from the FRI. And I made many valuable connections who I'm now working with on exciting projects.”

Teaching remains at the heart of her role. “My absolute favourite thing about being a teaching academic is seeing the growth in students from their first year of study to final year...then seeing them graduate and embark on their careers is an absolute bonus.”

“For some students, university study is challenging… and you know (because they tell you!) that you have made a real difference at key times that helped them to hang in there…it brings a tear to our eye, seeing them succeed.”

Her advice? “Take any opportunity or offer that comes your way, if it interests you — even if you’re not sure you can do it. Say yes and work it out later,” she laughs. “My career path shows that every experience builds on the last, and you never know where it might lead.”

"I am cognisant that there are many people who have helped along the way. I hope they know who they are.”