Research Office
Dr Irena Obadovic
Research Economist
I am a research economist. My expertise is in agricultural economics, international trade, economic modelling and forecasting, Aotearoa-NZ’s primary industries and its agricultural policy. I am a PhD graduate of the University of Canterbury and my PhD thesis was on modelling potential impacts of the free trade agreement between NZ and the EU on the agricultural sectors. I understand well the transdisciplinary requirements of the research, and have skills in co-developing research that seeks to deliver science, economic, environmental, Te Ao Maori and community outcomes. I have extensive experience in cross-cultural and diverse environments working on complex issues. As I am passionate about Atearoa-NZ’s primary sector, I am excited to be part of Plant & Food Research. With strengths in economic research and analysis, my career goals focus on supporting Atearoa New Zealand's well-being and prosperity in the rapidly changing world.