Pioneering plant scientist receives top award

Professor Tracy Lawson, from the University of Essex's School of Life Sciences, has been named the recipient of the International Society of Photosynthesis Research (ISPR) Innovation Award, recognising her outstanding contributions to plant phenotyping and photosynthesis research.

Presented for the first time this year at the Society's international congress in Liverpool, the award celebrates researchers whose work has successfully translated discoveries in photosynthesis into practical innovations that benefit society.

Throughout her career, Professor Lawson has developed pioneering technologies that have transformed how scientists measure photosynthesis, stomatal behaviour and water-use efficiency in plants.

Professor Lawson said: “As always, these awards reflect a team effort and none of this would be possible without the dedicated PhD students, post-docs and technicians in my labs, to whom I am extremely grateful.

"I am also indebted to all my colleagues for their continued support and collaborations”

Turning discoveries into technology

Her research has bridged the gap between fundamental plant science and the development of more resilient and productive crops.

Among her most important innovations are technologies that allow scientists to measure photosynthesis and water use in living plants using imaging approaches, alongside systems that automatically adjust growing conditions based on how plants are performing.

Professor Lawson's research has advanced scientific understanding while, through collaborations with industry partners, helping turn new discoveries into technologies used in plant research and crop improvement.

ISPR introduced the Innovation Award to encourage scientists to explore how discoveries in photosynthesis can address global challenges, including food security, sustainable agriculture, renewable energy and climate change.

The award also recognises researchers whose work raises the profile of photosynthesis research by delivering tangible benefits beyond the laboratory.

Professor Lawson's work continues to support the development of more efficient and sustainable crop production, helping researchers and plant breeders develop crops that are more productive, more resilient and better equipped to cope with a changing climate.