Colleagues and friends from Murdoch University - and around the world - are mourning the loss of Professor Yonglin Ren, who has passed away following a short illness.

Professor Ren was Professor of Plant Biology in the School of Agricultural Sciences and also worked in the Centre for Biosecurity & One Health in the Harry Butler Institute.

 During a distinguished career, Professor Ren gained international recognition in the development of management and commercialisation strategies for grain pest technology and quality control.

 He made a significant contribution to the storage of grain in Australia, and his research supported the continued marketing of insect-free Australian grain globally.

Professor Ren was previously with CSIRO in Canberra and moved to Perth to set up the Post-Harvest Biosecurity and Food Safety Laboratory at Murdoch in 2009.

Deputy Vice Chancellor Global Engagement Professor Simon McKirdy worked closely with Professor Ren for two decades and described him as a humble person who did not seek the spotlight but focused his research on real-world solutions for industry.

 “Alongside his outstanding research, Yonglin was wholly dedicated to his students,” Professor McKirdy said.

“He devoted his time to all his students and was available for them at any time to assist with progress of their research.”

The University will continue to celebrate and honour Professor Ren’s incredible life, career achievements and contributions.