Becoming a Ritman Scholar and co-organising the Plant Health Student Network meetings provided me with various opportunities for professional development and to meet (and work with) many inspiring people. By organising the online meetings, attending the PBRI symposium and the Kansas State University “Plant Biosecurity in Theory and Practice” workshop as a Ritman Scholar, not only did I gain a better understanding of the plant biosecurity system in Australia and other countries, but I also developed operational skills that are valuable to the work I do post-PhD. I feel really privileged to have had this opportunity during my PhD where I learned so much in a fun and supportive environment with the other three Ritman Scholars

Bianca Rodrigues Jardim, (La Trobe University, Plant Health Australia)

Receiving the Ritman Scholarship and working in collaboration with other scholars, to establish the Plant Health Student Network has been a true highlight of my PhD journey. Over the last two years, the Ritman Scholarship has presented many opportunities, allowing us to travel and present at conferences, meet countless inspiring plant health researchers and policy makers, and bring together a group of over 200 students and early career researchers in plant health from around the globe. Some specific highlights have included: working with global plant biosecurity organisations such as Euphresco for the International Day of Plant Health, presenting on the Plant Health Student Network within a UN Food and Agriculture Organisation meeting, working with and forming friendships with other Ritman Scholars, and of course attending and presenting on my own research at the PBRI Symposium

Rebecca Degnan, University of Queensland

Receiving the Ritman Scholarship has been a truly rewarding experience, and if you are considering applying, I would highly recommend it! Attending the 2022 PBRI symposium and sharing my PhD research allowed me to consider a broader perspective on my work and learn about the development of innovative technology in the biosecurity research sector. It was a great experience to engage with plant health professionals from across research, government, and industry sectors who generously offered advice and encouragement. Developing the Plant Health Student Network has been another fantastic experience, and it has been incredibly motivating to be part of a community of passionate students and early career researchers. I am excited to see what is next for the Ritman Scholarship and the Plant Health Student Network and am incredibly grateful for all the opportunities this award has offered me

Salome Wilson, The Australian National University