Greg has always been interested in the natural environments of Australia. He completed a Bachelor of Applied Science in wildlife and park management. After completing the degree he worked for the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources in Victoria, in the management and control of noxious pests.

"I wished to increase my knowledge in soils, as I saw problems with the management of these resources. While completing a Master degree in Agriculture at the University of Adelaide, I became fascinated with the microorganisms which live in the soil, especially mycorrhizal fungi."

He became interested in the mycorrhizas found in undisturbed natural environments and enrolled in a PhD, to examine the role of these fungi in the establishment of native plants in highly disturbed environments.

"Studying soil science has enabled me to have a broader understanding of the natural environments present in Australia. The study of mycorrhizas in particular has enabled me to investigate the best methods for the revegetation of Australian native plants, a field I find fascinating."