Sandie developed a passion for microbial ecology during her undergraduate years (Bachelor of Science) and followed this interest into postgraduate studies (Master of Philosophy), which she is currently completing with the Sustainable Agroecosystems team. Her research focuses on the influence of microbial and plant communities on long-term carbon pools in Australian rangeland soils. This research aims to identify management strategies that promote carbon sequestration. She is studying part-time whilst working as a field assistant for the team.