David Hall

UNE Degrees: Bachelor of Science in Agriculture (1983), Master of Rural Science (1992)

Other credentials: 

• 2025 Certificate of Excellence. Ag Institute of Australia (WA)
• 2025 Boodja Lecture . Soil Science Australia (WA)

Study mode: On Campus

College: Earle Page College

Current Occupation: Principal Research Scientist (Soil Management) - Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (WA)

Skills: Leadership, Public Speaking, Agriculture/Soil Science

David is a Principal Research Scientist (Soil Management) with the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development in Western Australia, with more than 40 years' experience in soil management research encompassing the use of amendments (gypsum, lime, wetting agents, clay, organic compounds), tillage (deep and shallow), and cropping rotations to modify and improve soil productivity. The key aim of my research has been to determine how soil physical and chemical properties can be managed to achieve sustained improvements in crop productivity. Often this entails having a clear idea of what soil properties are impeding productivity and what management interventions are likely to give sustained economic benefits. To this end I have been fortunate to have developed, implemented and led many industry funded projects.

Originally from Gippsland, David moved to Armidale to study full-time on campus at Earle Page College—a decision he has never regretted: "One of the key reasons for Armidale was that it made sense to study agriculture in a rural environment, particularly when you had working university farms for practicals bordering the campus (Kirby, Laureldale)."

His extensive research into plant soil and water relations has focused on soil structural decline, non-wetting behaviour in sands, nutrient retention, and salinity in dryland and irrigated soils across Western Australia and New South Wales, with findings published nationally and internationally.

As an Alumni Ambassador Mentor, David brings exceptional capability as a project supervisor and technical specialist to support the next generation of agricultural scientists.

“ The  Alumni Ambassador program is important as it brings together raw talent (students) with those who have considerable experience (mentors). For the student it is a chance to bounce ideas and ask questions, while for the mentor is giving back to the institution that has helped to define their career. “