Dr Llewellyn is a molecular biologist who specialises in creating genetically modified plants with increased insect, disease and herbicide tolerance, with a particular focus on cotton.
In 1981, he created Australia's first experimental genetically modified plant and his research now focuses on the discovery of new genes for use in plant biotechnology. He is also a pioneer in field evaluation of the transgenic cotton species he is involved in developing.
In 2006 he was made the Sub-Program Leader of the Genetic Improvement of Australian Cotton through Biotech program within the CSIRO's Division of Plant Industry.
Llewellyn has been awarded the following CSIRO medals:
2003 - CSIRO Chairman's Medal for Science and Engineering Excellence (jointly with Gregory Constable and colleagues) for the development and delivery of genetically modified insect- and herbicide-resistant varieties for the Australian cotton industry;
2011 - CSIRO Chairman's Medal for Science and Engineering Excellence as leader of the Cotton Breeding and Biotechnology Team (with Gregory Constable, Peter Reid and colleagues) for the major impact achieved on Australia's cotton production due to the breeding and deployment of the new cotton variety Sicot71BRF;
2022 - CSIRO Medal for Lifetime Achievement for pioneering research that has shaped Australia's successful cotton industry.
1996
1996
Award - Australian Cotton Grower's Research Association Researcher of the Year
1 Jan 2001
1 Jan 2001
Award - Centenary Medal - for services to biotechnology with Greg Constable
2003
2003
Award - CSIRO Chairman's Medal for Science and Engineering Excellence (as team leader, with Gregory Constable and colleagues)
2006
2006
Award - ATSE Clunies Ross Award with Greg Constable and Gary Fitt
2011
2011
Award - CSIRO Chairman's Medal for Science and Engineering Excellence (as team member with Gregory Constable, Peter Reid and colleagues)
2022
2022
Award - CSIRO Medal for Lifetime Achievement, Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Organisation