PhD Student Profile
Salini Khuraijam
The University of Newcastle
My research investigates the factors that affect soil conservation adoption behaviour and the impacts of climate change in Australia.
PhD Title: “Soil Conservation and Climate Adaptation in Australian Agriculture: Understanding Adoption Behaviours and Climate Impact”
PhD start date: March 2021
Supervisors: Dr Heidi Wechtler (University of Newcastle), Professor Vaughan Higgins (University of Tasmania), Dr Balaji Seshadri (University of Newcastle).
What did your research find?
I found that farmers’ adoption of soil conservation practices is shaped not only by economic considerations but also by a complex set of internal enablers and limitations. In addition, I developed yield forecasting models that project climate change impacts on agricultural production under future climate scenarios.
What interested you about this research?
I was drawn to this project for the opportunity to contribute to solving real-world challenges through a collaborative, industry-linked research initiative. I was excited about working on sustainability and climate change issues while collaborating with a diverse group of outstanding researchers.
What did you love about your PhD?
What I loved about my PhD was the opportunity for immense learning and growth as a researcher.
How will your PhD help to make a difference for farmers?
My thesis helps inform more effective policies and programs that facilitate farmer adoption of soil conservation practices for greater sustainability and climate resilience.
Now that you have completed your PhD, what do you want to do next?
I would like to continue applying my analytical and research skills using data-driven insights to address economic and social challenges.
More information
Read Salini’s publications:
- Khuraijam, S., Wechtler, H., Higgins, V. & Luke, H. (2026). Is climate risk perception enough? Empirical evidence from Australian farmers. International Journal of Disaster Risk Reduction, 133, 105918. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijdrr.2025.105918.
- Khuraijam, S., Wechtler, H., Higgins, V. & Seshadri, B. (2025). Understanding the impact of identity and socio-economic factors on the adoption of soil conservation practices: Empirical evidence from Australia. Journal of Rural Studies, 116, 103636. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jrurstud.2025.103636.