Dr Nishita Narwal is an environmental scientist at the School of Biological Sciences, The University of Western Australia, investigating emerging contaminants and their impacts on terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. Her research focuses on understanding how microplastics move through soil and grain crop systems and developing sustainable approaches to reduce their impacts on soil health, crop productivity and food security.

As a Forrest Research Foundation Fellow, Nishita is exploring the potential of biochar to mitigate microplastic contamination in agricultural soils and crops, bringing together various disciplines including environmental science, biotechnology, nanotechnology and soil–plant sciences to develop practical and sustainable solutions.

Beyond research, Nishita is passionate about co-curricular activities, science communication and community engagement, which keep her motivated, inspired and connected. She believes that curiosity, creativity and happiness are an important part of a fulfilling research journey. For her, “a happy researcher is an inspired researcher” who is better equipped to make meaningful contributions to science and society. She looks forward to being an active member of the Forrest community and building collaborations at UWA and beyond.