Peter Lane graduated from the University of Tasmania with a Bachelor of Agriculture Science in 1974 and a PhD in 1982.
Peter grew up in a small Tasmanian rural town where farming was the main business activity, so agricultural science was an obvious choice. He had a strong interest in wanting to help and advise farmers on how to improve farming techniques and productivity.
His favorite memories from his time studying agricultural science are the friendships formed with fellow students and the excellent relationship with lecturers in the then Faculty of Agricultural Science.
"The degree was challenging and provided a well-balanced qualification for a wide range of job positions in agriculture," Peter said.
Peter said the degree provided the opportunity to have a productive and satisfying working life across a number of employment positions. I have worked for the State Government as an extension and research officer, and in primary industry finance and development, as well as a field agronomist in the private sector.
"The degree also provided the required qualification to undertake a Doctor of Philosophy in agricultural science and take up a position at the University of Tasmania as a Lecturer in Agronomy. During my time at the University I had a successful teaching and research career and served as Head of School for 6 years," he said.
Peter was also attracted to agriculture science because of the opportunity to work in developing countries. Towards the end of his career, Peter spent 10 years leading two international research for development projects in Vietnam. He describes this as a wonderful experience from both a work and cultural perspective, all thanks to doing agricultural science at at the University of Tasmania.
When asked to consider the future of agriculture science in Tasmania, Peter highlighted the ongoing need to attract the best and brightest students to study agricultural science. He said there are a wide range of employment opportunities for graduates, and there are and will be many new technologies and innovative ways to improve agricultural production and global food chains.
"Climate change and food security are other major challenges for agricultural science to address as part of its teaching and research programs," he said.