RAID Career Conversations: Careers in Food Systems, Agriculture and Development

Wed, Oct 29 2026 4:00 PM – 5:30 PM (AEST)  | Online | REGISTER HERE

Where could your skills and experience take you next? 

Join us for the first of two RAID (Researchers in Agriculture for International Development) hosted Career Conversations, bringing together professionals working across agriculture, food systems and development. Our panellists will share how they found their way into their current roles, the choices and experiences that shaped their careers, what organisations look for when recruiting, and what they wish they had known earlier. We will also talk about the skills that matter once you are in the job and how to prepare for your next career move.

Panellists
Cassandra Walker–Agriculture Victoria
Mohammed Mainuddin–CSIRO
David McGill-CQUniversity
Richard Porter–AgXtra
Dumisani Mhlanga– Hort Innovation

Panellist bios below.

Come along with your questions. Submit one in advance here, or ask our panellists directly during the session.

Hosted by RAID (Researchers in Agriculture for International Development), a network that connects, supports and provides opportunities for people interested in agriculture and international development. Learn more about us here.

We look forward to seeing you at the event!

Cassandra Walker
Research Lead, Agriculture Victoria

Dr Cassandra Walker is the Research Leader, Crop Quality, at Agriculture Victoria (DEECA), based at the Horsham SmartFarm in Victoria, Australia. She leads a multidisciplinary team focused on improving the quality, nutrition, functionality, and market value of grains and pulses. With expertise in crop quality, food and feed science, protein functionality, and laboratory innovation, Cassandra works closely with growers, breeders, industry, government, and international research partners. She has led numerous national and international collaborations aimed at enhancing the value of Australian grain and pulse crops, translating research outcomes into practical benefits for producers, processors, consumers, and global markets.

Mohammed Mainuddin
Senior Principal Research Scientist, CSIRO

Dr Mohammed Mainuddin is a Senior Principal Research Scientist in CSIRO’s Future Water Program, based in Canberra, Australia. Internationally recognised for his multidisciplinary expertise spanning climate, water, agriculture, food security, and livelihoods, he has over 35 years of research experience. Over the past 15 years, his work has focused on integrated coastal zone management in the Ganges Delta and sustainable groundwater management in the Eastern Gangetic Plains, advancing agricultural productivity, food security, and livelihoods. His research has informed national policies and guidelines and earned major recognition, including the CSIRO Chairman’s Medal and One CSIRO Award (2008) and the Agriculture and Food Impact Award (2024).

Dr David McGill
Associate Professor, Central Queensland University

David McGill is an Associate Professor of Livestock Systems at Central Queensland University, with over 15 years experience in livestock research and international agricultural development. He holds a Bachelor of Agricultural Science from the University of Sydney and a PhD from Charles Sturt University, where his research focused on the genetic evaluation of Sahiwal cattle in Pakistan. David has led dairy research and development initiatives in Pakistan and spent seven years as a Research Fellow at the University of Melbourne. His current work centres on strengthening livestock and extension systems, deepening farmer engagement, and advancing sustainable agricultural development through international research collaborations in Indonesia and the Philippines.

Richard Porter
Managing Director, AgXtra

Richard Porter is the Managing Director of AgXtra, with extensive experience in agricultural research, agronomy, business development and rural industries. His expertise spans business planning and strategy, and applied research in agrochemicals, crop production, crop protection and plant breeding with a strong focus on translating agricultural innovation into practical commercial outcomes. Under Richard’s leadership, AgXtra supports the commercialisation of innovation across broadacre and horticultural agriculture through applied trial research, crop protection and plant breeding support. His experience in connecting research, industry and commercial agriculture enables AgXtra to deliver practical solutions that contribute to improved crop production and farm performance.

Dumisani Mhlanga
Senior Industry Service Manager, Horticulture Innovation

I am an experienced horticulture and agribusiness professional with more than 30 years of industry experience across production horticulture, business management and agricultural development. Currently I am working for Hort Innovation as the Senior Industry Service Manager. Throughout my career, I have worked across diverse horticultural production systems and international markets, combining practical farm experience with strong commercial, financial and strategic insight. I have held leadership responsibilities and developed extensive experience in managing people, businesses and operational performance. My key areas of expertise include horticultural production, agribusiness strategy, industry relationships, financial management, business improvement, leadership, operational performance and the development of practical, commercially focused solutions for the agriculture sector.