Isabelle Duff is on a mission to revolutionize agriculture through genetic innovation. Raised on a farm in Australia, she combined her childhood experiences with a strong academic background, pursuing a Bachelor of Advanced Science and Commerce at the University of New South Wales (UNSW) with a focus on Genetics and Accounting. Her unique blend of hands-on farming knowledge and scientific expertise positions her to make a meaningful impact in the agricultural sector.
Growing up in a mixed farming operation that includes sheep, cattle, and cropping, Isabelle’s early years were filled with curiosity. “I grew up on a farm, following Dad around in the ute, asking endless questions,” she recalls. This insatiable desire to understand the underlying principles of farming led her to explore innovative genetic research aimed at transforming the industry.
Before entering university, Isabelle dedicated a gap year to working full-time on her family’s farm, enhancing her understanding of animal health and land management. This experience solidified her commitment to bridging the gap between scientific research and practical farming applications. Her ultimate goal is to make genetic innovations accessible and cost-effective for Australian producers.
Experiential Learning Through Diverse Opportunities
In addition to her academic pursuits, Isabelle gained valuable experience at a vertical spinach farm in Sydney. This role allowed her to delve into agricultural technology and sharpen her problem-solving skills. “It was chaotic, but I thrived on it. Turns out, startups and farming have a lot in common,” she said.
A significant milestone in her journey is the receipt of the Horizon Scholarship, sponsored by AgriFutures Australia. This program offers financial support, mentorship, and industry placements, empowering young leaders like Isabelle to accelerate their careers in agriculture. Reflecting on her scholarship experience, Isabelle shared, “I met a Horizon Scholar at an agricultural conference when I was eighteen. She told me all about it and it sounded amazing, so I wrote ‘apply for Horizon Scholarship’ in my notes and waited four years. Now, I’m here, and it’s everything I hoped for.”
Dallas Pearce, Project Manager at evoke AG and Global Innovation Networks at AgriFutures Australia, emphasized the scholarship’s transformative impact. “This unique program not only helps scholars develop practical skills but also opens doors to diverse learning opportunities. It’s a career accelerator with a high conversion rate into employment, setting scholars up for long-term success,” she explained.
Building a Foundation for Future Leadership
Isabelle’s drive and impressive background position her as a potential leader in the agriculture sector. Pearce noted, “The Horizon Scholarship will further enhance her skills and experiences, allowing her to make significant contributions to the industry. We are confident Isabelle will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of agriculture through her expertise and innovative mindset.”
AgriFutures Australia remains dedicated to fostering the next generation of leaders who will drive the future prosperity of rural industries and communities in Australia. The Horizon Scholarship is awarded to students pursuing an agriculture-related undergraduate degree or a Science, Technology, Engineering, Maths/Finance (STEM) degree with relevant majors that align with agriculture.
Applications for the 2026 AgriFutures Horizon Scholarship are currently open and will close on January 26, 2026. As Isabelle Duff continues her journey, her commitment to genetic innovation in agriculture exemplifies the potential for young leaders to effect meaningful change in the industry.
