CRDC and NSW DPI investment in cotton pathology research capacity at ACRI has increased since 2016-17 with the initiation of three new pathology research projects and the appointment of Dr Duy Le and Ms Aphrika Gregson. 

During a review of cotton pathology research infrastructure NSW DPI and CSIRO identified significant deficiencies in autoclaving capacity at the Australian Cotton Research Institute – Narrabri. 

Access to autoclaving technology is essential for many NSW DPI and CSIRO research programs based at ACRI as the current unit performs cleaning and decontamination of laboratory glassware, media and waste. After careful consideration NSWDPI and CSIRO agreed to approach CRDC to secure industry funding to procure an additional 100 litre autoclave unit.

Additional autoclave capacity will support the analysis of key pathology issues and identification of potential solutions for disease control leading to delivery of improved integrated disease management strategies for cottongrowers.