Rashyda joined Scottish Agronomy in May 2002 as a summer student, who then worked full-time and then part-time to have a family. This year in 2025, we are delighted that she has returned as a full-time member of the Trials Team.
Passionate for nature, her children, cats and dog, Rashyda loves travel, always makes time to hit the gym and sneaks in a bar of chocolate at any opportunity.
What’s your favourite time of year, and why?
Definately Spring, when everything wakes up again. I love seeing the flowers bloom and the world come back to life after winter. It just feels so full of hope and fresh energy
Why do you work in Agriculture?
I’ve always loved working with crops and being close to nature. There’s something really satisfying about helping farmers grow food and solve problem. it feels meaningful and rewarding.
What do you think makes Scottish Agronomy special?
They are an independent research company that works closely with farmers and breeders. They provide expert, unbiased advice based on real field trials, helping growers get the most out of their crops under local conditions.
What has been your career highlight so far?
Getting to work with such a wide range of crops and crop protection products. I love seeing how different varieties perform in the field and how the right chemistry can make such a big difference. Helping farmers choose the best options and then seeing those choices succeed—that’s the most rewarding part for me.
Tell us a surprising fact about you?
Outside of work, I love hitting the gym, going for walks, gardening, and spending time with my four cats, dog, and my kids. It’s a busy but fun household, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything!
If I wasn’t working for Scottish Agronomy, I would have been?
I think I would have been working with animals in some way, maybe in animal care or conservation. I’ve always had a passion for them and being around animals just brings me so much joy.
Best piece of advice you’ve been given?
Always stay true to myself and trust my instincts. It’s easy to get caught up in what others think but when you follow your gut and stay authentic, things tend to fall into place.
Guilty Pleasure?
Definitely chocolate, I can’t resist it. I’m also a sucker for travel. Exploring new places and cultures is something I can never get enough of.
Ideal Weekend / Happy Place?
Definitely spent in the woods, going for long walks and just enjoying nature.
Best or worst job you’ve ever had and why?
Supervising 400 people in the fields back home in Ukraine. It was incredibly challenging, managing so many people at once, but it taught me a lot about leadership and patience. The best job, hands down, has been working with Scottish Agronomy. I love how it combines my passion for agriculture with the chance to make a real difference for farmers.
