Soytavanh started working in sustainable natural resources management and rural livelihoods in 2008 as a government officer in the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment in Laos and has been associated with many research projects focused on integrated transboundary natural resources management and community livelihoods.

Soytavanh’s postdoctoral work, undertaken primarily an independent consultant, focuses on analysing food and fibre production systems, value chains and associated livelihoods, as the basis for policy and practice interventions to strengthen sustainability, resilience, and livelihoods. A parallel body of work evaluates project impacts at household, community and policy levels. She has conducted this work with Australian and international research and development partners, and reported and communicated outcomes in diverse forms and modes.

Soytavanh’s public service and research experience has required strategic engagement with ACIAR project leaders and teams, universities, and peak bodies, national and international organisations.