I am currently completing a BScHons in Genetics, with my project being focused on assembling the genomes of the parents of a Eucalyptus grandis x Eucalyptus urophylla backcross family, followed by comparative genomics to identify regions within the Eucalyptus genome associated with disease resistance. Through this work I aim to assist in developing sustainable, long-term solutions to protect and uplift the forestry sector, which is key to the South African economy. This is a matter close to my heart as I spent much of my formative years working and staying on a small pine plantation.