Higgins is a world leader in application of gene technologies to improve the nutritive value of seed and leaf protein which are used to enhance the efficiency of animal production.

His genetically engineered subclover and field peas will be among the first transgenic pastures and pulses in commercial use in Australia and around the world. Higgins is among the most respected plant molecular biologists in international ranks. His laboratory achieved world acclaim in the study of genes for seed proteins, for seminal advances in understanding viral replication and the role of hormones in control of gene expression in plant development.