Holding a Master of Science in mycology with a focus on mushroom science from Thailand, Dr. Rizal's expertise encompasses a wide range of topics including macrofungi and microfungi research, fungal molecular biology, biocontrol, and the impact of her work on agriculture, biosecurity, conservation biology, stubble pathogens and the cotton industry. Besides her scientific endeavors, Dr. Rizal is passionate about STEM education, with a notable background in teaching and research at both secondary and tertiary levels.