Chris Steel

Biography

Chris Steel completed his BSc in microbiology at University College, Cardiff in the UK and then completed his PhD at the University of Birmingham (UK) in microbiology in 1986. He subsequently conducted periods of post-doctoral training at the University College of Wales in Aberystwyth, (UK) with the agrochemical company Dr R Maag AG in Switzerland and with the NSW Department of Agriculture in Rydalmere, Australia. A focus of his research at this time was physiological plant pathology, fungicide resistance and elucidation of the mode of actions of a range of pesticides used in agriculture. In 1995 he joined Charles Sturt University and is currently Professor of Viticulture at the National Wine and Grape Industry Centre. The impact of climate and the environment on grape production have been a major focus of his research. His teaching responsibilities cover general viticulture and oenology and supervision of post-graduate students. He has conducted numerous workshops for grape growers and wine makers in Australia and has presented his research widely around the globe in diverse countries including France, India, New Zealand, Spain, UK and the USA.

Research Interest

Management and epidemiology of bunch rot diseases of grapes Identification and detection of grapevine fungal pathogens