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DrToto Olita

Research Fellow

School of Molecular and Life Sciences (MLS)

Orcid identifier0000-0002-3247-3756
  • Research Fellow
    School of Molecular and Life Sciences (MLS)

BIOGRAPHY AND RESEARCH IMPACT

An applied Agricultural Research Economist and Educator (10+ years experience) within the Centre for Crop and Disease Management (CCDM) , with extensive experience working with growers, agrifood professionals (e.g., agronomists, plant pathologists, plant breeders, extension officers etc), biophysical researchers and policy makers. My role focuses on applying economic theory, quantitative analysis and stakeholder engagement to inform strategic Research and Development investment decisions in response to emerging issues across the Australian grains and cotton industries. At CCDM, I work alongside biophysical researchers, engaging with multidisciplinary and multi-institutional teams to translate complex biological, technical and industry knowledge into robust economic analysis. This work often occurs in areas where data are fragmented, empirical evidence is limited and investment decisions require careful interpretation of scientific uncertainty. My work is grounded in evidence-based policy, inclusion and sustainable development and is focused on delivering public value through rigorous analysis, strategic thinking and transparent decision-making.

DEGREES

  • PhD, Agricultural and Resource (Environmental) Economics
    The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
  • MSc, Actuarial and Financial Science
    Curtin University, Perth, Australia
  • BSc, Actuarial Science
    Dedan Kimathi University of Technology, Nyeri, Kenya

CERTIFICATIONS

  • Certificate III In General Insurance (FNS30515)
    Australian and New Zealand Institute of Insurance and Finance
    Australian Securities and Investments Commission RG146 Tier 2 Compliant
  • AusChem Accreditation: Risk Management in Pesticide Use Skill Set
    South Regional TAFE (52790), Narrogin Campus, Western Australia
  • 52879WA Certificate II in Leadership
    South Metropolitan Technical and Further Education, Australia

ROLE

  • Staff

SUPERVISOR LEVEL

  • Level 2 (Co-Supervisor): Provides supporting supervision and subject-matter expertise alongside the primary supervisor.

FIELDS OF RESEARCH

  • 3004 - Crop and pasture production
  • 3801 - Applied economics
  • 4104 - Environmental management
  • 3002 - Agriculture, land and farm management
  • 4901 - Applied mathematics
  • 4905 - Statistics
  • 3803 - Economic theory
  • 4605 - Data management and data science

DEPARTMENT

  • School of Molecular and Life Sciences (MLS)