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Dr April Hastwell is a plant molecular biologist with the School of Agriculture and Food Science at The University of Queensland, Australia. The focus of her research group is on roles of short signalling peptides in root development including in molecular networks controlling the beneficial legume-rhizobia symbiosis and nodule development.

Yasmine Lam is a researcher within the Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation at the University of Queensland. Her main areas of interest are using biotehnological tools like gene editing to dissect key traits of interest in cereals to further understand the molecular mechanisms that underpin phenotypes. Currently, her main focus is dissecting various components of plant architecture using CRISPR and a holistic phenotyping approach to further disseminate the influences these genes can have for future trait improvement in key cereal crops. Additionally, she endeavours to form more integrative approaches to crop improvement by looking at ways to integrate biotechnological and molecular techniques to improve current breeding technologies.

I am an interdisciplinary researcher and a Fellow of the UK Higher Education Academy (HEA) Professional Standards Framework (UKPSF). With a strong background in Agricultural Biotechnology, Molecular Plant Physiology, Biochemistry, Omics (Proteomics, Metabolomics, Transcriptomics), and Statistical data analysis, I am dedicated to advancing knowledge and finding practical solutions in the field of crop production.

My current research focuses on studying axillary bud outgrowth and axillary meristem arrest, a variable trait that holds significant importance in crop production. By delving into the intricate mechanisms governing axillary branching, I aim to unravel the underlying molecular and physiological processes that contribute to the regulation of this trait. Understanding the factors influencing axillary branching has the potential to revolutionize crop yield and quality by optimizing plant architecture and resource allocation.