The current research project “Increasing profit from N, P and K fertiliser inputs into the evolving cropping sequences in the Western Region” is focused on the dynamics of phosphorus (P) and nutrient management in cropping systems in Western Australia.

My main research interests are to investigate the role of biological processes in the dynamics, and nature of phosphorus (P) in agricultural systems, targeting a more sustainable and efficient utilisation of this nutrient, given that it is a finite resource. More research is necessary to investigate and quantify the role of legacy P under intensive agroecosystems as influenced by land management practices. Phosphorus use efficiency of agriculture in temperate, subtropical, and tropical soils can be potentially increased, on the long-term, by adopting strategies to enhance soil organic matter and microbial activity. Significant mobilisation of legacy P (inorganic and organic P accumulated) is likely to be achieved by the inclusion of cover-crop plants species, in the crop rotation scheme, with enhanced capabilities to access sparingly soluble P forms. Detailed studies of the dynamics and ecology of beneficial associations of soil microorganisms with plants in the rhizosphere of plants will potentially expand our knowledge of soil processes related to residual P mobilisation, including organic an inorganic P forms.