DrUmair Ahsan

I am a molecular biologist and plant pathologist with research experience in molecular diagnostics, plant biosecurity, and pathogen detection. I currently work as an Associate Research Fellow at Deakin University, where my research focuses on the development and validation of rapid molecular diagnostic assays for plant pathogens.

My work involves a range of molecular diagnostic technologies, including quantitative PCR (qPCR), recombinase polymerase amplification (RPA), loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP), and CRISPR-Cas-based detection systems. I am particularly interested in translating molecular biology research into practical, rapid and field-deployable diagnostic tools that can support plant health, biosecurity and disease management.

Prior to joining Deakin University, I held research and diagnostic roles with the NSW Department of Primary Industries and the Northern Territory Government, working across plant pathology, molecular diagnostics and biosecurity. I also undertook postdoctoral research at Cornell University in the United States, which broadened my international research experience and further developed my expertise in plant molecular biology and plant–pathogen research.

I hold a PhD in Molecular Biology from The University of Queensland, along with postgraduate training in Genetics and Bioengineering and a background in Agricultural Sciences. My research experience spans bacterial, fungal, oomycete and viral plant pathogens, with a strong focus on molecular assay development, validation and implementation.

My broader research interests include plant–pathogen interactions, molecular diagnostics, emerging detection technologies, genomics and biotechnology, particularly their application to plant health and biosecurity.