Murdoch University agricultural sciences student Jasmin Hanlon has been awarded an AgriFutures Horizon Scholarship, one of only two WA students to receive this honour.

The scholarship, sponsored by the Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC), is worth $10,000 over two years.

Ms Hanlon, grew up on a small rural property in Gidgegannup to parents from farming backgrounds, but wasn't directly exposed to agriculture until she attended the WA College of Agriculture, Cunderdin in her high school years.

“I grew up on a small hobby farm in Gidgegannup, WA, where I was surrounded by an agricultural community, but it was when I attended the WA College of Agriculture Cunderdin that my passion for the industry flourished," Ms Hanlon said.

“On completion of year 12, I knew that I wanted to further my interest, which lead me to begin a Bachelor of Agricultural Science, majoring in Crop and Pasture and Animal Science at Murdoch University.

“I chose Murdoch because of its strong reputation in the crop and animal science sectors, as well as the practical learning components in my degree.”

Murdoch University Dean of Agricultural Sciences Dr Caroline Jacobson said agricultural science students are equipped with the knowledge and skills they need to thrive in diverse careers across a range of agricultural industries.

“Murdoch’s Agricultural Science degrees help students gain a broad perspective on how science and technology are being applied to underpin profitable and sustainable food and fibre production," Dr Jacobson said.

“Our students learn from world-leading experts addressing real-world challenges in agriculture and animal health, to positively impact productivity and sustainability at local, national and international levels.

“We partner with industry to ensure our curriculum is innovative and relevant and that graduates are equipped to make immediate impact in their profession, just like Jasmin is on track to do.”

The AgriFutures Horizon Scholarship will allow Ms Hanlon to experience different areas of agronomy - consulting and science - which are both of interest to her, to see which direction she would like her future career to take.

“I am particularly interested in integrated crop management and the relationship between cropping and livestock sectors in building a sustainable production system,” Ms Hanlon said.

“I am really enjoying my course, as it’s both challenging and relevant to real world issues in the agricultural industry such as sustainability, biosecurity and challenges in production systems.

“I would encourage students who have a hands-on learning style and passion for agriculture to give this course a go!”

Ms Hanlon is one of a nationwide cohort of 21 students to be awarded a 2025 AgriFutures Horizon Scholarship.

The AgriFutures 2025 cohort will come together face to face in July for a five-day workshop in Canberra, held in conjunction with the AgriFutures Stakeholder Summit. The event will feature guest speakers, industry experts, and networking sessions that will expose scholars to the latest innovations and challenges in the sector.

“I am extremely grateful to AgriFutures and Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC) for providing me this amazing opportunity to collaborate with industry professionals, gain valuable knowledge and hands on experience through placements,” Ms Hanlon said.

Find out more about cultivating your passion for agriculture and animal health by studying agricultural science at Murdoch.