Finalists Announced for 2025 Cotton Researcher of the Year
Cotton Australia has officially revealed the finalists for the prestigious 2025 Cotton Seed Distributors Researcher of the Year Award. This award recognises the brilliance, commitment, and innovation of researchers contributing significantly to the Australian cotton industry.
The three outstanding finalists are:
- Dr. Katie Broughton, a research scientist at CSIRO Agriculture and Food in Narrabri, NSW
- Lou Gall, Technical Lead at CottonInfo and Executive Officer of the Gwydir Valley Irrigator Association
- Dr. Murray Sharman, Principal Plant Pathologist (Virology) with Queensland’s Department of Agriculture and Fisheries
Michael Murray, General Manager of Cotton Australia, praised the finalists—each either supported currently or previously by the CRDC—for their long-standing commitment. Collectively, they have contributed nearly 80 years to cotton research and extension, playing vital roles in enhancing the competitiveness and resilience of the Australian cotton sector.
"Research is the backbone of Australia’s success in global cotton markets. We’re fortunate to have such talented individuals committed to advancing the industry," Murray said. "When researchers find meaning and impact in their work, many remain dedicated to the sector for decades."
This year’s finalists reflect a broad spectrum of expertise, from climate resilience to disease management and water efficiency. Their contributions include pioneering sustainable practices, exploring the use of innovative plant growth hormones to improve yield, and strengthening biosecurity through virology research and diagnostics.
Dr. Ian Taylor, CEO of Cotton Seed Distributors, echoed the importance of research:
"Research underpins every stage of the cotton value chain—from developing seed to helping growers thrive in dynamic conditions. These finalists showcase the depth and range of cotton research in Australia."
Each finalist is making a tangible impact:
- Dr. Katie Broughton leads projects investigating climate change impacts on cotton and is exploring novel plant growth regulators to improve crop resilience and yields.
- Lou Gall has over three decades of industry experience. She has significantly contributed to improving on-farm water efficiency by connecting growers with cutting-edge irrigation research, technology, and education.
- Dr. Murray Sharman is a leader in virology diagnostics and biosecurity preparedness. His work on Cotton Bunchy Top Virus (CBTV) has resulted in resistant cotton varieties, enhancing crop protection and productivity.
The Cotton Seed Distributors Researcher of the Year will be announced at the Cotton Collective Dinner in Toowoomba on 6 August 2025. Additional awards at the event will include the Bayer Grower of the Year, AgriRisk High Achiever of the Year, CRDC Chris Lehmann Young Cotton Achiever of the Year, and the Incitec Pivot Fertiliser Service to Industry Award.