Distinguished Professor James Dale AC has been revealed as the Isaac Region Australia Day Ambassador, bringing his remarkable story to the forefront. As the inaugural Director of the Centre for Tropical Crops and Biocommodities (CTCB) at Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Prof. Dale has been a key figure in the biotechnology field for over 30 years.
A recipient of numerous accolades, including being named the 2019 Queensland Senior Australian of the Year, Prof. Dale gained recognition for his groundbreaking work in genetically enhancing the banana crop. His efforts were dedicated to combating vitamin A deficiency in Uganda, earning him a place among the top 25 inventions by Times Magazine in 2014.
Prof. Dale's work not only impacted global agricultural practices but also produced disease-resistant Cavendish bananas, safeguarding crops from potential devastation. Honored as a Queensland Great in 2015 and a Companion of the Order of Australia, Prof. Dale's influence extends across various continents, with collaborative projects in Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Americas.
Prof. Dale oversees the CTCB, a multidisciplinary centre focusing on tropical crops, covering gene discovery, genetic modification, biomass processing, and value-adding. With state-of-the-art facilities, the CTCB conducts collaborative projects globally, contributing to agricultural advancements. Prof. Dale's research spans biofortification of bananas, molecular farming for medical proteins, and disease resistance in genetically modified crops. His impact extends beyond research, having founded Farmacule Bioindustries, Australia's pioneer molecular farming company, showcasing his dedication to biotechnological innovation.
As the Australia Day Ambassador, Prof. Dale will grace celebrations in four Isaac towns, sharing his expertise and contributing to the region's festivities. Residents and visitors alike are encouraged to welcome him warmly. For details on the upcoming events, visit Isaac Region's official website.
