PhD USYD Australia 2009 - 2014, under the supervision of Prof Matthew H. Todd. Research associate 2013 - 2015, Molecular Sciences; Research Fellow 2016 - 2017, Molecular Sciences; Research Fellow 2018 - current, Applied BioSciences.

Dr Soo Jean Park is a chemical scientist with a research interest in the context of pest management in the primary industry and in addressing global sustainability challenges posed by various waste streams. Her research focuses on harnessing and analysing natural products as the foundation for attractants, repellents, and toxicants tailored for pest insects. Her approach offers developing practical, environmentally friendly solutions for effective pest management.

A significant aspect of her research involves the innovative use of advanced materials designed to facilitate the precise and controlled release of active ingredients in horticultural settings, enhancing the efficiency of pest management strategies. Dr Park’s dedication extends to converting waste materials and by-products into value-added resources, thereby contributing to global sustainability efforts and minimizing waste’s environmental impact.

Research themes:

• Development of natural products based attractants, repellents, and toxicants for pest insects;
• Investigation of composite membranes, carbon-based materials, microcapsules for slow and zero-order release of active compounds in the field conditions;
• Conversion of waste materials and by-products to value-added materials.

Dr. Park is currently seeking HDR students with backgrounds in analytical chemistry, organic chemistry, or material sciences to join her research team. Available projects for HDR students are (1) investigating carbon materials, microcapsules prepared by complex coacervation, and composite membranes as potential slow-release matrices with a zero-order release mechanism, (2) investigating chemical profiles of Varroa-infested honeybee colonies for electrochemical detection and quantification of the infestation levels, and (3) assessing heavy metal and pesticide contents in black soldier flies reared from waste materials for biodiesel production.

Qualified candidates securing scholarships from university scholarship rounds will be offered top-up scholarships. Dr Park’s research program provides a supportive and collaborative environment for HDR students to develop their research skills and make meaningful contributions to the field.