DoctorKaren Christie-Whitehead

Dr Karen Christie-Whitehead is an award-winning scientist at the Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture. Her area of expertise is whole farm systems modelling of livestock production systems, in particular ruminant livestock, to explore ways of improving resource efficiency (e.g. nutrients, water, livestock, pastures, soils etc), while adapting to climate change and mitigating greenhouse gas emissions to improve food production while maintaining profit in a socially and environmentally acceptable manner. Her 30+ years of experience in dairy, beef cattle, sheep and poultry research, grounded with working historically on farms, means Karen can see the broader issues facing the agri-food industries in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. 

In 2023, as part of the TIA Agricultural Systems modelling team, Karen was awarded both the College of Sciences and Engineering Sustainability Award and the Vice-Chancellor's Sustainability Award for outstanding leadership in climate action, greenhouse gas emissions mitigation and environmental stewardship.