11 February 2026 Celebrating our women in STEM at Lincoln University

Their research spans from the food we eat to the ground beneath our feet. We spoke with four of our female scientists about what they do and why it matters.

Focusing on the little things

Dr Joanna Green is an environmental microbiologist. As she likes to say, “I appreciate the small things in life.”

Recently there’s been a lot of attention on the human gut microbiome and how it can influence everything from disease resistance to even mood and wellbeing.

Joanna mostly works with plants, and their “gut”, their roots and the soil they live in. Her current research focuses on how soil microbial communities can help trees cope with drought, which is becoming increasingly important as extreme climate events become more common.

“Soil microbes are the first biological response to environmental change, and their effects can ripple upward through entire ecosystems.”

Her research could improve resilience in agriculture, forestry, and natural environments.

“What I love most about microbiology is that microbes are everywhere, and they shape the world in ways we’re only beginning to understand.

“My career has taken me from the mouth of the Amazon River to the Arctic tundra, from farms to native bush — and everywhere I go, there are incredible microbial stories waiting to be told.”

She encourages any woman who enjoys exploring, learning, and asking ‘why?’ to consider science as a career.

“It isn’t always easy, but it is rewarding. Science thrives with more diversity, and I think it could use more women bringing their perspectives.”

Bringing others along for the ride

Professor Amanda Black’s research focuses on how we can make our environment and landscapes more resilient to biological threats like pests and disease.

As well as teaching the next generation of scientists, Amanda is director of Bioprotection Aotearoa, a national centre of research excellence.

She conducts research all around the world, from Fiji to our native Kauri forests in the top of the North Island. She also works alongside Indigenous knowledge holders and scientists to co-develop research programmes that help address challenging environmental issues.

The chance to work in a diverse range of places with small communities is a huge motivator for her.

“The thing I am proud of has been bringing together really diverse groups across many disciplines. We can solve really tricky problems in a way that takes people along the journey.”

She’s also researching how society and culture applies to creating genetic tools for pest wasp management.

“That’s been a really interesting and eye-opening journey tracking the evolution of public discourse over 30 years.”

Health without compromise

Dr Ruchita Rao specialises in food science, with expertise in food chemistry and analysis.

Her work aims to create economically viable products that improve health outcomes without compromising on taste or accessibility.

Her current product in the lab: a re-fermented probiotic chocolate — a shelf-ready functional food people can enjoy.

Her work has strayed further from the conventional sweet treats. She researched how we can use edible insects as an alternative protein source in desirable foods, such as ice cream.

She encourages women to stay curious about science and to view their background as a strength, whatever it may be.

“You do not need to fit a single mould to belong. Curiosity-driven learning, asking questions, and being open to new ideas have shaped my own journey. There is real space in science for creativity, inclusion, and growth.”

Creativity in the lab

Senior Lecturer Charlotte Alster also works with soil microbes, researching how they influence our climate and biogeochemical cycling and how climate change, in turn, affects them.

It sounds complicated, that’s because it is. The big picture she’s looking at is the effects of global warming.

“Soil microbes have an enormous impact on our climate, so understanding what controls their growth and activities is critical for understanding and hopefully helping to mitigate climate change.”

In her lab on campus, you’ll find a unique piece of equipment designed to measure soil at different temperatures simultaneously, simulating future global warming. She helped create the bespoke device just for her research, which can be paired with other equipment to measure greenhouse gases, like CO₂.

She views science as a dynamic and creative field, and believes any good scientist needs a good creative streak when it comes to problem-solving.

Charlotte wants young women to know that careers in science can be balanced with life outside the lab.

“There are so many opportunities in science, including opportunities to travel, and a chance to make a real difference. I was worried about balancing being a mum with a career in science, but it is definitely possible with the right support and expectations.”

Together, these scientists represent just a snapshot of the excellent research our wāhine are driving at Lincoln University. To all our women in STEM, kia kaha — we’re proud to support the incredible work you do.