Louisa Parkinson

Louisa Parkinson is a Queensland-based research scientist whose work focuses on plant pathology, agricultural biotechnology and biosecurity. She completed a PhD at the University of Queensland in 2017 and has worked with its Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation. Her research investigates fungal pathogens affecting avocado trees, including causes of black root rot, and has contributed to identifying fungal species in Australia and developing molecular tests for rapid pathogen detection. Her projects also address biosecurity threats to the Australian avocado industry, including tree-boring beetles and their associated fungi.

Alongside her scientific career, Parkinson presents her creative work as a dancer, actress and freelance model. Her website features a modelling portfolio, dance videos, film and television highlights, travel galleries, research publications, presentations, awards and media coverage. She has also promoted science through public appearances and a featured role in a University of Queensland campaign. Active in Brisbane’s Filipino community, she performs traditional cultural and folk dances, emcees events and supports community productions.