In Episode 4 of Markets & Motives, Peggy Schrobback, Senior Research Scientist at CSIRO Agriculture and Food, joins the podcast to discuss how economics sits at the centre of scientific research and decision-making in Australia’s food industry.
Interviewed by Young Economist Ryan Clayden-Zabik, Peggy reflects on her remarkable journey from growing up on her parents’ subsistence farm, to arriving in Australia by chance during her travels, and later pursuing a PhD focused on the oyster industry.
Throughout the conversation, Peggy shares insights from her career in applied science, including her transition into research at CSIRO and the responsibilities she manages as a senior scientist. She discusses how her work supports Australia’s food and agriculture sectors, balancing the demands of her professional role while raising a family and contributing to research that strengthens the resilience and productivity of the nation’s food systems.
The episode also explores how economics plays a critical role in guiding decisions in science and industry from resource allocation to industry development and how collaboration between economists and scientists helps deliver better outcomes for Australia’s agriculture and food industries.
This episode offers valuable insights for anyone interested in the intersection of economics, science and public impact, and how research helps shape a stronger and more sustainable food future for Australia.