Five Bioeconomy Science Institute staff have been recognised in the 2025 Forest Growers Research awards, which celebrate people who have made outstanding contributions to the forestry industry.

Scientists Simeon Smaill, Steve A Wakelin and Georgia Dickson, principal researcher Peter Clinton and project manager Alison Wilson have won the communication and sector engagement, science of international quality, young scientist, inspiring leadership in forestry science and supporting research categories, respectively.

The Communication and Sector Engagement Award recognises Establishing Indigenous Forests portfolio lead Dr Simeon Smaill for his storytelling approach to science communication. Over the past 20 years, his work has consistently bridged the gap between research and real-world application. Simeon has also been actively involved in major forestry research programmes and is a trusted voice across the industry.

“Simeon has a sound understanding of industry needs and an exceptional ability to translate complex science into clear actions for stakeholders,” FGR Research & Development Director and CEO​​ Paul Adams says.

Steve A Wakelin won the Science of International Quality award for his innovative radiata pine microbiome research and his leadership of the Tree Root Microbiome Programme. Paul says Steve’s commitment to this research has established a new platform for managing planted and natural forests, offering innovative solutions for climate adaptation, disease control and enhancing forest productivity. “The research has produced internationally significant advancements and helped make New Zealand a world leader in forest microbiome science.”

Georgia, a senior science technician and Health Science Master’s student, is using virtual reality to explore how different forest types impact forestry worker wellbeing. This innovative experiment engages the forest harvesting workforce, highlighting Georgia’s commitment to industry collaboration and real-world impact.

“Steve has helped develop tools, data and models that inform conservation strategies and climate adaptation planning – creating opportunities for significant long-term benefits to forestry and ecosystem health, while Georgia’s ability to communicate complex ideas clearly, engage stakeholders and adapt methodologies to forestry contexts shows her scientific maturity,” Paul says.

Peter Clinton, whose career spans 35 years, has mentored emerging scientists, published 131 articles, supervised or co-supervised more than 30 post-graduate students and led many collaborative programmes. The Inspiring Leadership in Forestry award recognises his expertise in and dedication to science.

Alison Wilson has been integral to the success of the Resilient Forests, Tree Root Microbiome and Extreme Wildfire research programmes. She supports researchers at every level of the Bioeconomy Science Institute – solving logistical challenges, co-ordinating fieldwork schedules and much more. She also organised the institute’s presentations for the 2025 Forest Growers Research conference, helping all speakers maximise their impact.

“The Inspiring Leadership in Forestry award rightly recognises Peter’s outstanding national and international reputation,” Paul says. “He’s a visionary leader whose programmes have had a significant impact on the science community and the forestry sector.

“Alison is a quiet achiever and reliable problem-solver who makes a lasting difference to the research programmes she supports – and to the wider Bioeconomy Science Institute.

“All the awards are well-deserved and a testament to the outstanding research expertise at the Bioeconomy Science Institute.”