Graduate Profile: Natasha Teakle

A degree in Agricultural Science with the Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences at The University of Western Australia was a natural choice for Natasha Teakle, who has always enjoyed helping on the family farm and wanted to gain a deeper understanding of how farming systems work.

“I knew how to put a crop in but wanted to learn how crops develop and what could be done to make them more productive,” Natasha explains.

An inspiring genetics unit in her second year stimulated a deep interest in molecular biology and the genetic control of salt tolerance in plants.  “In my final year I was involved in a project to isolate the genes that allow some plants to grow in salty soil,” Natasha says.

Natasha’s research has led to a position with the State Agriculture Biotechnology Centre. “The amazing thing about the agricultural science degree is how broad it is – in my new position I will be involved in a very fundamental science area – molecular biology - but I have friends who went through the same degree now working in agronomy, journalism, agricultural economics and marketing,” says Natasha. 

When asked to describe the highlights of her university degree, Natasha does not have to think too long.  “As president of the Agricultural Social Club I would have to say the social opportunities of the faculty have been wonderful!”  she says.  “Because it’s relatively small, there is a wonderful atmosphere in the faculty – the staff are very approachable and helpful and the older students naturally mentor those in first year until they find their feet.”

Another highlight was the field trips taken during second and third year.  “We visited farms around the state and gained an understanding of how different farming systems operate,” explains Natasha.