Dr Joe Kochman received his Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in crop disease management from the University of New England in 1974. Working as a pathologist with the Queensland Department of Primary Industries for 32 years in disease identification and development of management strategies, including being a program and project leader in 4 CRCs.

Joe led a significant body of research to better understand and combat fusarium wilt which during the 1990’s was a significant cause of industry concern as it spread from the Darling Downs to other parts of the industry. This work investigating and developing integrated disease management measures at the farm level such as appropriate crop rotations, hygiene and cultural controls as well as working with the CSIRO cotton breeding team to develop and screen improved levels of host plant resistance.

Joe retired in 2006 and has since undertaken a range of disease management consultancy work for a cross section of soil borne diseases.