Auckland, New Zealand
22 August 2014

Two of Plant & Food Research’s most preeminent scientists were awarded one of the highest honours in horticultural science earlier this week.  Ross Ferguson and Ian Ferguson (no relation) were made Fellows of the International Society for Horticultural Science (ISHS), the world's leading independent organization of horticultural scientists at the 29th International Horticultural Congress in Brisbane, Australia.

The pair now join a select group of Fellows of the International Society for Horticultural Science (ISHS), just nineteen people have been so recognised. A Fellow is chosen by the ISHS Council in recognition of outstanding contributions to horticultural science.

Dr Ross Ferguson has undertaken research in kiwifruit for nearly 40 years and is one of the leading authorities on kiwifruit biology.

“Dr Ross Ferguson’s research has made a valuable contribution to the New Zealand kiwifruit industry, supporting the development of new cultivars that appeal to the global consumer,” says Dr Bruce Campbell, Chief Operating Officer of Plant & Food Research. “This award is great recognition of his research and his commitment to horticultural science.”

Click to watch a video of Dr Ross Ferguson receiving his award

Dr Ian Ferguson is a leading authority on postharvest science and skilled in the application of scientific knowledge to solve problems of the horticulture industry. He is a former Chief Scientist of Plant & Food Research and now works as Science Advisor to the Ministry of Primary Industries.

“Ian is one of those rare New Zealand scientists who has significantly advanced international understanding of plant behaviour, whilst also applying his knowledge in a practical way that has hugely benefited the NZ industry” says Dr Campbell.

Click to watch a video of Dr Ian Ferguson receiving his award

“To have not one but two Plant & Food Research scientists recognised with such an honour is quite remarkable and testament to the skills in horticultural science present in New Zealand.”

The 29th International Horticultural Congress was hosted by the Australian Society of Horticultural Science, the New Zealand Institute of Agricultural and Horticultural Science, and the Secretariat of the Pacific Community, under the auspices of the International Society for Horticultural Science.

Website: http://www.plantandfood.co.nz

Published: August 22, 2014