Based at Massey University, Barry is a Theme Leader for Plant Bio-protection Systems Biology at the Centre, as well as Head of Massey's Institute of Molecular BioSciences and Director of the University's Centre for Functional Genomics.

In his role as Theme Leader for the Bio-Protection Research Centre, Barry provides strategic oversight of the research in Theme 3, which is focused on understanding the molecular basis for how fungal pathogens and symbionts interact with their hosts. He also monitors performance of projects within this theme and mentors young investigators, particularly PhD students.

Barry's research focuses on understanding the molecular basis of symbiotic interactions between plants and microbes: in particular the mutualistic symbiotic interaction between the endophyte Epichloe festucae and perennial ryegrass. The host provides nutrients for endophyte growth and a means of dissemination through the seed, whereas the endophyte provides biological protection to the host.

His research programmes aim to understand signaling mechanisms between the grass host and endophyte that maintain the mutualistic interaction and control the synthesis of bio-protective metabolites.