Awards & achievements

Scientists at the John Innes Centre are recognised for their contributions to the research community, both nationally and internationally

Professor Ray Dixon FRS received the international award for his pioneering research to develop more sustainable agriculture practices worldwide. In a career spanning nearly 50 years Professor Dixon has increased molecular understanding of biological nitrogen fixation in bacteria and how this might be applied to growing cereals more sustainably.

“I am honoured and delighted to become the latest recipient of this prestigious award,” said Professor Dixon, a group leader in Molecular Microbiology and a director of the JIC-CAS Centre of Excellence in Plant and Microbial Science (CEPAMS).

Professor Osbourn FRS was appointed Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) for her research on plant natural products, which has opened up new pathways to chemistry of agronomic and medicinal importance.

Director of the John Innes Centre, Professor Dale Sanders FRS said, “I’m delighted that Anne’s pioneering work in plant natural product biosynthesis and her enormous contribution to the John Innes Centre, The Sainsbury Laboratory and the Norwich Research Park has been honoured in this way.” The honour adds to a memorable year in the career of Professor Osbourn who in April 2019 was elected as a Fellow of the Royal Society.

The Web of Science Group list of Highly Cited Researchers, now in its sixth year, recognises the most influential researchers on a global scale, and includes the top 1% of researchers by citations for their field. On this year’s list are Professor Tony Miller and Professor Cristobal Uauy. The citation analysis identifies influential researchers of global importance that have consistently won recognition in the form of high citation counts over a decade.

Professor Miller’s group studies membrane transporters, and plant nutrition to improve the efficiency of fertiliser use. Professor Uauy’s group studies genetics and genomics to improve yield and quality components in wheat.

On 29 October 2019, the John Innes Centre became a Member of the ‘Plants for the Future’ European Technology Platform. By joining the Platform we strengthen links to peers, industry and farmers, and reaffirm our intention to remain an integral part of a pan-continental European Research Area.

Director, Professor Dale Sanders FRS said “Plants sustain life on our planet, feed our species and fuel our economies. At a time of global challenge and European uncertainty, we must not lose sight of the importance of collaboration to the future well-being of our economies and societies.”