Lincoln University researchers announced as Royal Society Ngā Ahurei a Te Apārangi Fellows

The Lincoln University pair are among 23 researchers, scholars, and innovators throughout Aotearoa New Zealand who have been elected Ngā Ahurei a Te Apārangi Fellows in recognition of their excellence in their various disciplines across science, technology and the humanities. The appointment as a Fellow recognises distinction in research, scholarship or the advancement of knowledge at the highest international standards.

Distinguished Professor Geoff Chase FRSNZ, Chair of the Academy Executive Committee, said the latest Fellows demonstrate the strength of Aotearoa New Zealand’s research communities.

“The newly-elected Ngā Ahurei Fellows have made contributions to knowledge and have had an impact at the highest levels in their different fields and across disciplinary boundaries, from criminal law to conservation biology, laser physics to ophthalmology, super-conductors to intensive-care medicine. Their election demonstrates the excellence of New Zealand research, innovation, and scholarship and shows the contribution our nation’s Fellows make on the world stage across a diverse array of subjects.”

Distinguished Professor Leo Condron is a world-leading soil scientist. He mainly studies the nature and impacts of interactions between living organisms and the chemical and physical components of soil. He is known for his extensive work on assessing and quantifying the effects of changes in land use and management on the nature and dynamics of soil phosphorus and organic matter. To this end, he has studied and established a number of long-term field experiments, as well as conducted research on changes in nutrient dynamics and bioavailability in natural forest ecosystems. This research has demonstrated that the activities of organisms in soil play a significant role in determining phosphorus bioavailability, and optimising soil biological processes is an effective way of improving phosphorus utilisation and plant uptake.

Professor Merata Kawharu MNZM (Ngāti Whātua, Ngāpuhi) is an internationally renowned expert who is called upon concerning global ethics, sustainability, climate adaptation, World Heritage, Indigenous community development, and food systems. She has advised the United Nations and UNESCO and provided expert evidence to judicial bodies, including the Waitangi Tribunal. Her research has influenced Tribunal findings, shaping Crown-Māori relationships. An award-winning author, her publications have advanced discourse on environmental management, entrepreneurship, mātauranga, and the intersections of technology and Indigenous knowledge. She has led over 20 major interdisciplinary research projects, driving impact for policy, leadership models, climate adaptation, and technology innovation.

Royal Society Te Apārangi media release

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