I have always been fascinated by how understanding nature can help solve real-world problems. My passion lies in using science to protect Australia’s agriculture, environment and communities from invasive pests. I believe research has its greatest value when it delivers practical solutions that improve people’s lives and support the sustainability of our natural and agricultural systems.
Growing up, I was drawn to biology and the remarkable ways insects interact with plants and their environment. This curiosity led me to specialise in insect chemical ecology and biosecurity. Throughout my career, I have focused on translating fundamental discoveries into practical tools for pest surveillance and management. Working across Australia and internationally has shown me that the best solutions often come from collaboration and learning from those who have faced similar challenges.
Today, I am an Associate Professor in Entomology at Murdoch University, where I lead research on invasive pests affecting agriculture and natural ecosystems. I work closely with government agencies, industry and international collaborators on projects supported by organisations including GRDC, HIA and the WA Agricultural Research Collaboration. I currently lead a WAARC-funded project on the polyphagous shot hole borer, an emerging invasive pest threatening Western Australia’s urban forests, horticulture and biodiversity. This work has highlighted both the urgency of the problem and the importance of learning from countries with greater experience managing this pest.
A Churchill Fellowship would enable me to learn directly from world-leading experts and bring proven management approaches back to Australia. More importantly, it would strengthen long-term international collaborations and help translate global knowledge into practical outcomes for Australian growers, governments and communities. My long-term goal is to help build a more resilient biosecurity system that protects Australia’s agriculture, environment and future generations from emerging invasive pests.
Project
To study global management of polyphagous shot hole borer for Australian biosecurity
Wei Xu
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