My research develops sustainable solutions for crop protection by integrating chemical ecology, data science, and biological control. I investigate how agricultural pests and their natural enemies perceive and respond to chemical signals, translating these insights into practical monitoring technologies and environmentally responsible management strategies. This work directly supports global food security while reducing agriculture's environmental footprint. By developing alternatives to synthetic pesticides through biopesticide innovation and precision monitoring tools, I seek to contribute to more resilient and sustainable farming systems.
Since 2020, I have secured £2.5 million in competitive research funding across 15 successful grants, with £670k direct value to Harper Adams University. My research involves collaborations with leading institutions including Aston University, Teagasc Ireland, University of Zambia, Imperial College London and industry partners developing next-generation pest management technologies.
| Years | Project | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 2024–2026 | SoilScope – Machine Learning-Enabled Acoustic Monitoring | Innovate UK-funded project (£364k) developing acoustic-based pest detection systems with Biofonic and SRUC for sustainable crop protection. |
| 2024–2026 | Development of Safe RNA-Based Biopesticide | Innovate UK-funded collaboration (£210k) with University of Plymouth and RNA Agribio Ltd. to develop next-generation biological pest control solutions. |
| 2022–2026 | Aphid Monitoring as a Decision Support Tool | Teagasc Walsh Scholarship (£122k) developing data-driven approaches for aphid management in Irish cereal crops with international collaboration. |
| 2025–2027 | Cabbage Stem Flea Beetle Management Programme | AHDB-funded project (£81k) with ADAS, Rothamsted, and NIAB developing integrated management strategies for this challenging oilseed rape pest. |
| 2022–2023 | Photonic Noses for Pest Monitoring | BBSRC-funded feasibility study (£148k) with Aston University developing novel sensor technology for in-field pest detection using photonics. |