Marsh Lawson Mushroom Research Centre

About project

Project partner

The University of Sydney, Hort Innovation

Duration

2025-2028

Summary

Marsh Lawson: Elevating Mushroom Excellence Through Continual Research (MU24005)

Following on from previous levy investments beginning in 2017, this current project supports the operation and development of the Marsh Lawson Mushroom Research Centre (MLMRC) at the University of Sydney. The MLMRC is a world-class facility dedicated to mushrooms, and the research undertaken there helps the mushroom industry drive innovation, adopt best practices, tackle emerging challenges — including sustainability, compliance, and climate adaptation — and foster new expertise through R&D pathways.

The AHR project team provides research leadership and targeted advice to support industry needs, while the University of Sydney maintains the facilities and employs a research technician/grower.

The main activities of the project are:

  1. Maintenance and management of the current Marsh Lawson Mushroom Research Unit at the Darlington Campus, University of Sydney, to promote and carry out active research on all aspects of mushroom cultivation and cropping.

  2. Research leadership and industry consultation, delivering trials informed by industry priorities set through the AMGA Research Committee

  3. Delivery of research outputs, including demonstration trials, quarterly reports, technology transfer programs, collaborative projects, workshops, and seminars, to support knowledge sharing and innovation across the mushroom industry.

The outputs of this project are designed to benefit the Australian mushroom industry, including growers, composters, and supply chain stakeholders, ensuring research remains practical, relevant, and industry-led.

For more information contact 

Umberto Calvo, Applied Horticultural Research Pty Ltd

umberto.calvo@ahr.com.au