About Us
Plant Diagnostics is an independent laboratory based in Canterbury, New Zealand, providing specialist plant disease diagnostics and research services to growers, agribusinesses, researchers and industry organisations nationwide.
Our work includes plant disease investigation, nematode testing, fungal and bacterial identification, molecular diagnostics, and specialist research and project work. We combine practical expertise with scientific interpretation to provide clear, meaningful results for our clients.
Mark Braithwaite: B. Hort. Sc., M. Hort. Sc. Hons 1
Managing Director, Senior Plant Pathologist
mob: 027 947 9450
Mark is a diagnostic plant pathologist trained in both classical morphological and modern molecular identification methods. Mark has 40 years experience identifying fungi and bacteria for growers, industry representatives and quarantine/biosecurity purposes. In addition, Mark has experience in designing and conducting research trials, surveying crops for plant diseases, fungicide resistance screening and providing advice on plant health problems.
Bronwyn Braithwaite: B. Hort. Sc. Hons.
Plant Scientist, Laboratory Manager, Administration
bronwyn@plantdiagnostics.co.nz
mob: 027 332 9934
Bronwyn is a Lincoln graduate in Horticultural Science and has many years of experience in Horticultural Consultancy dealing with greenhouse crops and cut flowers and in university laboratory and field research projects related to plant pathology.
Lewis Braithwaite: PGDipAppSci
Plant Pathologist
mob: 027 712 6307
Lewis has completed a Post Graduate Diploma in Applied Science at Lincoln University which focused mainly on plant pathology, integrated pest management and research methods. His primary interests lie in plant disease diagnostics and other aspects of plant pathology.
Emily Hicks: BSc, Hons, 1st class
Field and Laboratory Technologist
Emily is an Otago graduate with a degree in microbiology. She is a skilled technician with experience in microbiology, and a range of molecular techniques. Her plant pathology work experience includes research on biocontrol agents for two major plant pathogens, this project involved design, management, assessment and analysis of experiments conducted in the laboratory, glasshouse and field. At Plant Diagnostics, Emily’s role includes microbial culture, experimental set-up, molecular assays, lab management and health and safety.
Uykim Lim: Master of Pest Management
Laboratory and Field Technician
Kim has completed a Master’s degree in Plant Pest Management at Lincoln University which focused on plant pathology, invertebrates, ecological research, and conservation. He is involved in experimental setup, data collection, and assists with our plant disease diagnostic service.