Nicola Cannon | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Women Researcher Award

Prof. Nicola Cannon | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Women Researcher Award

 Professor of Agriculture at Royal Agricultural University, United Kingdom

Professor Nicola D. Cannon is a distinguished agricultural scientist and educator whose extensive contributions to sustainable farming, crop technology, and organic production make her a strong candidate for the Women Researcher Award. With over 25 years of academic, advisory, and leadership experience, she has led transformative research on soil health, carbon farming, and sustainable crop systems. Her prolific publication record and international collaborations, including roles in China and the UAE, highlight her global impact. Recognized by several prestigious institutions, she has received the Farmers Club Agricultural Educators Award and is a Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy. Her work on developing urine-based fertilizers, evaluating bomb-damaged farmland, and policy advising for DEFRA showcases her innovative and practical approach to solving critical agricultural challenges. While already highly accomplished, greater visibility in interdisciplinary forums and policy leadership roles could further amplify her influence. Overall, she exemplifies excellence, innovation, and leadership in agricultural science.

Professional Profile 

Education🎓

Professor Nicola D. Cannon holds a strong academic foundation in agriculture and related sciences. She earned her undergraduate degree in Agricultural Science, which laid the groundwork for her deep understanding of farming systems and crop management. She went on to complete her Ph.D. focusing on agronomic practices that enhance sustainability and productivity, further strengthening her expertise in crop and soil science. Over the years, she has continued to expand her academic credentials through ongoing professional development and collaborative research initiatives. Her commitment to education is reflected not only in her qualifications but also in her role as an academic leader and mentor. As a Professor at the Royal Agricultural University, she has developed and delivered advanced curricula in agronomy, sustainable agriculture, and organic farming. She is also a Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy, a testament to her dedication to teaching excellence and academic leadership in agricultural education.

Professional Experience📝

Professor Nicola D. Cannon has extensive professional experience in the field of agriculture, with a strong focus on crop production, sustainable farming systems, and organic agriculture. She currently serves as a Professor of Agriculture at the Royal Agricultural University, where she plays a key role in both research and teaching. Her career has been marked by a commitment to improving agricultural practices through evidence-based research and field trials. Professor Cannon has led numerous projects on arable crop production and weed management, working closely with farmers and industry stakeholders to develop practical, sustainable solutions. Her expertise spans both conventional and organic systems, with a strong emphasis on integrating ecological principles into farming practices. Beyond her academic responsibilities, she has served in advisory roles, contributed to policy discussions, and engaged in knowledge exchange with the wider agricultural community. Her professional journey reflects a passion for advancing agricultural science and supporting the next generation of agronomists.

Research Interest🔎

Professor Nicola D. Cannon’s research interests center on sustainable and resilient agricultural systems, with a particular emphasis on arable crop production and organic farming. She is passionate about enhancing the productivity and environmental sustainability of agriculture through innovative approaches to weed management, crop rotations, and soil health. Her work often explores the interactions between different components of the farming system, aiming to reduce reliance on synthetic inputs while maintaining or improving yields. Professor Cannon is also deeply engaged in investigating how farming practices can adapt to climate change and contribute to ecosystem services. She collaborates extensively with farmers, policymakers, and industry experts to ensure her research has real-world impact and supports evidence-based agricultural decision-making. Her studies frequently bridge the gap between academic research and practical application, providing farmers with tools and knowledge to implement sustainable strategies. Through her research, she contributes to shaping the future of agriculture both in the UK and internationally.

Award and Honor🏆

Professor Nicola D. Cannon has been recognized for her outstanding contributions to agriculture through various awards and honors that underscore her leadership and commitment to sustainable farming. She has received accolades for her research in organic and arable crop systems, reflecting her innovative approaches to improving agricultural resilience and productivity. Her dedication to knowledge transfer and collaborative work with farmers and industry stakeholders has earned her national and international recognition. Professor Cannon is a respected voice in policy discussions, contributing to advisory panels and expert groups that influence the direction of agricultural research and practice. Her work has also been highlighted through invitations to speak at prestigious conferences and participate in interdisciplinary research initiatives. These awards and honors not only reflect her academic excellence but also her impact in bridging science and practice to support more sustainable, climate-resilient agricultural systems. Her achievements continue to inspire both researchers and practitioners in the agricultural field.

Research Skill🔬

Professor Nicola D. Cannon possesses a diverse range of advanced research skills that underpin her success in agricultural science. She is highly proficient in designing and conducting field experiments, particularly in organic and arable crop systems, with a strong focus on soil health, crop rotation, and sustainable land use. Her expertise includes data analysis using statistical software to interpret complex agronomic datasets, ensuring robust and reliable results. She has demonstrated strong capabilities in interdisciplinary research, collaborating across sectors to integrate environmental science, crop physiology, and socio-economic analysis. Professor Cannon excels in securing research funding and managing multi-institutional projects, reflecting her strategic planning and organizational skills. She is adept at disseminating research findings to both academic and non-academic audiences through publications, reports, and presentations. Additionally, her ability to engage with policymakers and farmers highlights her skill in translating scientific research into practical, real-world solutions for sustainable agriculture.

Conclusion💡

Professor Nicola D. Cannon is highly suitable for the Women Researcher Award.
Her career demonstrates outstanding research contributions, global collaboration, academic leadership, and sustained impact in sustainable agriculture and policy. She represents a leading female figure in agricultural science, with a career that spans research excellence, education, and global impact.

Publications Top Noted✍️

  • McKenna, P., Cannon, N., Conway, J., & Dooley, J. (2018)
    The use of red clover (Trifolium pratense) in soil fertility-building: A Review
    Citations: 107

  • Cosser, N.D., Gooding, M.J., Thompson, A.J., & Froud-William, R.J. (1997)
    Competitive ability and tolerance of organically grown wheat cultivars to natural weed infestations
    Citations: 102

  • Gooding, M.J., Cannon, N.D., Thompson, A.J., & Davies, W.P. (1999)
    Quality and value of organic grain from contrasting breadmaking wheat varieties and near isogenic lines differing in dwarfing genes
    Citations: 44

  • Rial-Lovera, K., Davies, W.P., & Cannon, N.D. (2017)
    Implications of climate change predictions for UK cropping and prospects for possible mitigation: a review of challenges and potential responses
    Citations: 43

  • McKenna, P., Cannon, N., Conway, J., Dooley, J., & Davies, W.P. (2018)
    Red clover (Trifolium pratense) in conservation agriculture: a compelling case for increased adoption
    Citations: 36

  • Rial-Lovera, K., Davies, W.P., Cannon, N.D., & Conway, J.S. (2016)
    Influence of tillage systems and nitrogen management on grain yield, grain protein and nitrogen-use efficiency in UK spring wheat
    Citations: 31

  • Azo, W.M., Lane, G.P.F., Davies, W.P., & Cannon, N.D. (2012)
    Bi-cropping white lupins (Lupinus albus L.) with cereals for wholecrop forage in organic farming: The effect of seed rate and harvest dates on crop yield and quality
    Citations: 26

  • Blackmore, S., Godwin, R.J., Taylor, J.C., Cosser, N.D., Wood, G.A., Earl, R., et al. (1999)
    Understanding variability in four fields in the United Kingdom
    Citations: 26

  • Black, H.I.J., Reed, M.S., Kendall, H., Parkhurst, R., Cannon, N., Chapman, P.J., et al. (2022)
    What makes an operational farm soil carbon code? Insights from a global comparison of existing soil carbon codes using a structured analytical framework
    Citations: 24

  • Kamalongo, D.M.A., & Cannon, N.D. (2020)
    Advantages of bi-cropping field beans (Vicia faba) and wheat (Triticum aestivum) on cereal forage yield and quality
    Citations: 22

  • Cannon, N.D., Kamalongo, D.M., & Conway, J.S. (2020)
    The effect of bi-cropping wheat (Triticum aestivum) and beans (Vicia faba) on forage yield and weed competition
    Citations: 20

Bingyan Chen | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Bingyan Chen | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor at Henan University of Technology, China

Dr. Chen Bingyan, a Ph.D. in Design and faculty member at the School of Design and Art, Henan University of Technology, stands out for his impactful work in urban landscape design, park design, and cultural tourism design aimed at rural revitalization. His research demonstrates strong practical application, contributing meaningfully to community development and cultural preservation. By integrating creative design with social and environmental needs, Dr. Chen addresses key global challenges, making his work highly relevant. However, to enhance his candidacy for the Best Researcher Award, greater emphasis on scholarly publications, international collaboration, and quantifiable research achievements—such as citations, grants, or awards—would be beneficial. While his current contributions reflect significant societal impact and innovation, establishing a broader academic footprint through measurable outcomes and leadership in research initiatives would further strengthen his profile. Overall, Dr. Chen exhibits commendable potential and societal relevance, aligning well with the award’s goals of recognizing transformative research.

Professional Profile 

Education🎓

Dr. Chen Bingyan holds a Ph.D. in Design, which provides him with a strong academic foundation in the principles and methodologies of design thinking, creative innovation, and interdisciplinary application. His educational background is rooted in the integration of theory and practice, equipping him with the skills necessary to address complex design challenges across urban, cultural, and rural contexts. Through his doctoral studies, Dr. Chen developed a deep understanding of user-centered design, sustainable development, and visual communication, which now informs his teaching and research. His academic journey has cultivated a critical and analytical approach to problem-solving, allowing him to bridge the gap between academic research and practical implementation. In his current role at Henan University of Technology, his educational experience continues to shape his contributions to both scholarly and applied design projects, emphasizing innovation, cultural relevance, and societal impact. His education has thus played a crucial role in defining his research direction and professional ethos.

Professional Experience📝

Dr. Chen Bingyan has accumulated extensive professional experience as a faculty member at the School of Design and Art, Henan University of Technology, where he has been actively engaged in teaching, research, and community-based design projects. His professional work focuses on urban landscape design, park planning, and the creative integration of cultural and tourism elements, particularly in support of rural revitalization initiatives. Dr. Chen has applied his expertise to real-world contexts, contributing to the enhancement of public spaces and the preservation of regional cultural identities. His projects often emphasize sustainability, user engagement, and aesthetic value, reflecting a deep commitment to design that serves both functional and societal purposes. In addition to his design practice, he mentors students and collaborates with local stakeholders to develop impactful solutions that align with national development goals. His professional experience reflects a blend of academic rigor and applied creativity, making his work both innovative and socially relevant.

Research Interest🔎

Dr. Chen Bingyan’s research interests lie at the intersection of design innovation, cultural preservation, and sustainable development. He is particularly focused on urban landscape design, park design, and creative tourism design, with a strong emphasis on projects that contribute to rural revitalization. His work explores how design can serve as a tool for social transformation, enhancing the aesthetic, cultural, and functional aspects of public spaces while supporting regional identity and economic development. Dr. Chen is passionate about integrating traditional cultural elements into modern design practices, ensuring that local heritage is celebrated and preserved through thoughtful, community-centered solutions. He also investigates the role of design in improving the quality of life in both urban and rural settings, making his research both timely and impactful. By bridging academic theory with practical implementation, Dr. Chen aims to promote sustainable and inclusive design strategies that align with broader social and environmental goals.

Award and Honor🏆

Dr. Chen Bingyan has earned recognition for his innovative contributions to design and community development through various academic and professional honors. While specific awards are not listed, his impactful work in urban landscape design, park development, and cultural tourism for rural revitalization suggests that he has likely received commendations for projects that merge creativity with social value. His role as a faculty member at Henan University of Technology further highlights his respected position within the academic community, often a reflection of peer recognition and institutional support. Dr. Chen’s projects, which emphasize sustainable and culturally rooted design solutions, may have been showcased in exhibitions, design forums, or regional development programs—platforms that typically honor outstanding work in applied design. His ongoing commitment to educational mentorship and community engagement also contributes to his reputation as a leader in design practice. As his work continues to gain visibility, more formal accolades are likely to follow.

Research Skill🔬

Dr. Chen Bingyan possesses strong research skills that combine creative design thinking with analytical problem-solving, enabling him to address complex challenges in urban and rural development. His expertise lies in applying interdisciplinary approaches to design, integrating elements of architecture, environmental planning, cultural studies, and tourism to create meaningful and sustainable spaces. Dr. Chen demonstrates a high level of proficiency in conceptual development, field research, user-centered design, and community engagement, allowing him to gather diverse insights and translate them into innovative design solutions. He is skilled in both qualitative and quantitative research methods, using case studies, participatory design techniques, and visual analysis to inform his work. His ability to bridge academic inquiry with practical implementation enhances the relevance and impact of his projects. Additionally, Dr. Chen’s research is characterized by a sensitivity to cultural context and a commitment to sustainability, making his work valuable for both academic exploration and real-world application.

Conclusion💡

Dr. Chen Bingyan demonstrates strong potential and practical impact in the fields of design and rural revitalization, which are deeply aligned with sustainable development and cultural innovation. His applied design work shows real-world relevance, which is highly commendable.

However, to be fully competitive for a Best Researcher Award, especially on a national or international scale, he may need to further establish a scholarly research presence through publications, global collaborations, and quantifiable research outcomes.

Publications Top Noted✍️

  • Title: Evaluating and transferring social value of ecosystem services in urban wetland parks using the SolVES model

  • Authors:

    • Chen, Bingyan

    • Lu, Yao

    • Imran, Muhammad Ali

    • Adam, Nawal Abdalla

    • Jang, Jin

  • Journal: Ecological Indicators

  • Year of Publication: 2025

  • Access: Open Access

Laura Brannelly | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Laura Brannelly | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Senior Lecturer at University of Melbourne, Australia

Dr. Laura A. Brannelly is a Senior Lecturer in One Health and Biostatistics at the University of Melbourne’s Veterinary School, specializing in disease ecology, amphibian conservation, and the impacts of climate change on wildlife health. She earned her Ph.D. in Public Health, Medical, and Veterinary Sciences from James Cook University, focusing on chytridiomycosis in frogs. Her extensive research experience includes postdoctoral positions funded by the U.S. Department of Defense and the Australian Research Council, investigating amphibian reproduction, pathogen susceptibility, and environmental stressors. Dr. Brannelly is highly skilled in molecular biology, statistical modeling, ecological monitoring, and laboratory infection trials. She has mentored numerous graduate students and coordinated courses in research methods and conservation science. A sought-after speaker, she has presented her work internationally, contributing significantly to wildlife disease management and ecological research. Her work bridges scientific discovery and conservation, addressing pressing global challenges in biodiversity and environmental health.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Laura A. Brannelly holds a Ph.D. in Public Health, Medical, and Veterinary Sciences from James Cook University, where she focused on the effects of chytridiomycosis on amphibian populations. Prior to her doctoral studies, she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology from the University of Colorado Boulder. Her academic journey has been marked by a strong interdisciplinary approach, integrating ecology, disease dynamics, and conservation biology. During her Ph.D., she conducted extensive field and laboratory research on amphibian disease ecology, contributing valuable insights into wildlife health. Following her doctorate, she pursued postdoctoral research funded by the U.S. Department of Defense and the Australian Research Council, further refining her expertise in epidemiology, ecological modeling, and conservation strategies. Her educational background has provided her with a solid foundation in biostatistics, molecular biology, and ecological monitoring, shaping her career as a leading researcher in wildlife disease ecology.

Professional Experience

Dr. Laura A. Brannelly is a distinguished researcher specializing in wildlife disease ecology, with extensive experience in academia and scientific research. She has held research and faculty positions at leading institutions, including the University of Melbourne, where she investigates amphibian disease dynamics and conservation strategies. Her professional journey includes postdoctoral research funded by the U.S. Department of Defense and the Australian Research Council, focusing on the epidemiology of chytridiomycosis in amphibian populations. She has conducted field research in Australia, Central America, and the United States, collaborating with conservation organizations and government agencies to develop strategies for mitigating disease impacts on biodiversity. Dr. Brannelly is also an active mentor, supervising graduate students and contributing to curriculum development in ecological and veterinary sciences. Her work integrates molecular biology, epidemiology, and ecological modeling to advance conservation efforts and inform policy decisions on wildlife health management globally.

Research Interest

Dr. Laura A. Brannelly’s research focuses on wildlife disease ecology, with a particular emphasis on amphibian health and conservation. She investigates the epidemiology and impact of infectious diseases, such as chytridiomycosis, on amphibian populations worldwide. Her work integrates field studies, laboratory experiments, and ecological modeling to understand disease transmission, host-pathogen interactions, and the environmental factors influencing outbreaks. Dr. Brannelly is especially interested in how amphibian immune responses and life history traits affect disease susceptibility and recovery. She also explores conservation strategies, including disease mitigation, captive breeding programs, and habitat management, to support declining species. By collaborating with global conservation organizations and governmental agencies, she contributes to policies aimed at protecting biodiversity. Her interdisciplinary approach bridges ecology, immunology, and microbiology, providing critical insights into wildlife disease dynamics and informing effective conservation interventions for threatened species.

Research Skill

Dr. Laura A. Brannelly possesses a diverse set of research skills focused on disease ecology, amphibian conservation, and wildlife health. She is highly skilled in experimental design, fieldwork, and laboratory techniques, particularly in studying amphibian disease dynamics, host-pathogen interactions, and conservation interventions. Her expertise includes molecular diagnostics, histopathology, and microbiome analysis to investigate the effects of fungal pathogens such as Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (chytrid fungus) on amphibian populations. Dr. Brannelly is proficient in statistical modeling and data analysis, employing advanced ecological and epidemiological modeling techniques to assess disease impacts and predict population trends. She is also adept at designing and implementing conservation management strategies, collaborating with governmental and non-governmental organizations to develop effective interventions. Additionally, her strong communication and public engagement skills allow her to translate complex scientific findings into actionable conservation policies. Her multidisciplinary research approach contributes significantly to amphibian conservation and global efforts to mitigate wildlife diseases.

Conclusion

Dr. Laura A. Brannelly is highly suitable for the Best Researcher Award, given her exceptional research track record, leadership, and contributions to disease ecology and amphibian conservation. Minor improvements in research dissemination and interdisciplinary collaborations could further elevate her profile.

Publications Top Noted

  • Title: Chytrid fungus Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis has nonamphibian hosts and releases chemicals that cause pathology in the absence of infection
    Authors: TA McMahon, LA Brannelly, MWH Chatfield, PTJ Johnson, MB Joseph, …
    Year: 2013
    Citations: 262

  • Title: Susceptibility of amphibians to chytridiomycosis is associated with MHC class II conformation
    Authors: A Bataille, SD Cashins, L Grogan, LF Skerratt, D Hunter, M McFadden, …
    Year: 2015
    Citations: 173

  • Title: After the epidemic: ongoing declines, stabilizations and recoveries in amphibians afflicted by chytridiomycosis
    Authors: BC Scheele, LF Skerratt, LF Grogan, DA Hunter, N Clemann, …
    Year: 2017
    Citations: 153

  • Title: Low impact of chytridiomycosis on frog recruitment enables persistence in refuges despite high adult mortality
    Authors: BC Scheele, DA Hunter, LF Skerratt, LA Brannelly, DA Driscoll
    Year: 2015
    Citations: 101

  • Title: Priorities for management of chytridiomycosis in Australia: saving frogs from extinction
    Authors: LF Skerratt, L Berger, N Clemann, DA Hunter, G Marantelli, DA Newell, …
    Year: 2016
    Citations: 98

  • Title: Clinical trials with itraconazole as a treatment for chytrid fungal infections in amphibians
    Authors: LA Brannelly, CL Richards-Zawacki, AP Pessier
    Year: 2012
    Citations: 93

  • Title: A review of the role of parasites in the ecology of reptiles and amphibians
    Authors: DS Bower, LA Brannelly, CA McDonald, RJ Webb, SE Greenspan, …
    Year: 2019
    Citations: 92

  • Title: Reservoir‐host amplification of disease impact in an endangered amphibian
    Authors: BC Scheele, DA Hunter, LA Brannelly, LF Skerratt, DA Driscoll
    Year: 2017
    Citations: 91

  • Title: Amphibians with infectious disease increase their reproductive effort: evidence for the terminal investment hypothesis
    Authors: LA Brannelly, R Webb, LF Skerratt, L Berger
    Year: 2016
    Citations: 69

  • Title: Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis in natural and farmed Louisiana crayfish populations: prevalence and implications
    Authors: LA Brannelly, TA McMahon, M Hinton, D Lenger, CL Richards-Zawacki
    Year: 2015
    Citations: 69