Dr Haoyu Lou

I am a seasoned plant biotechnologist specializing in plant phenotyping and plant genetics, currently associated with the Adelaide node of the Australian Plant Phenomics Facility, The Plant Accelerator.

My academic journey began at the University of Newcastle, where I graduated with a Biotechnology degree in 2013. My undergraduate research project was an early foray into plant genetics, as I worked to identify the chemical properties of an unknown compound found in a mutant sorghum population.

I further honed my focus on plant genetics during my Master's in Plant Biotechnology at the University of Adelaide in 2015. Here, I had the opportunity to work at the ARC Centre of Excellence in Plant Cell Walls. My research was centred on understanding the impacts of nitrogen fertilizers on barley grain development, especially their influence on the malting quality, from a genetic perspective.

My Ph.D. from the University of Adelaide and the University of Nottingham, completed in 2020, marked a significant milestone in my career. My research during this period revolved around investigating the functions of cell wall-related genes during the root tip development of barley. During this time, I acquired extensive training in molecular biology, genetic technologies, and X-ray CT for plant root phenotyping.

At present, at The Plant Accelerator, my work prominently involves the application of cutting-edge technologies in plant phenotyping. My current project involves the development of a rapid, high-throughput method for cereal spike phenotyping using X-ray CT. This non-destructive technique allows for a precise and efficient analysis of cereal grains and spikes, thus accelerating breeding programs.

Another fascinating facet of my work is in the 3D architecture analysis of plants. The ability to generate detailed 3D models from scanned objects presents unprecedented opportunities for phenotyping and genetics research.

My research, especially in root 3D architecture, root angle, and cereal spike and spikelet 3D analysis, has garnered significant attention from the media and the public. I have had the privilege of sharing my work and its impact on agriculture through various interviews and reports available across different media outlets. My work's visibility is a testament to its practical significance and potential to revolutionize our approach to plant breeding and agriculture.

Collaboration forms a significant part of my work. I have had the privilege to work with a diverse range of academic and industry partners, scanning a wide array of plant species, including wheat, barley, oat, quinoa, macadamia, onion, and sorghum.

My passion lies in pushing the boundaries of what is possible in plant genetics and phenotyping, using technology as a vehicle for change. My ambition is to apply these advancements in a practical way to benefit breeders, pre-breeders, and ultimately contribute to a more sustainable future in agriculture.

For more details about my research and media coverage, please follow the link at the end of the bio.