Zoë Marshall Wins Inaugural SSCR Science Communication Prize at Hutton Symposium
The Scottish Society for Crop Research (SSCR) is delighted to announce Zoë Marshall as the winner of the inaugural Bill Macfarlane Smith Memorial Prize for Science Communication, presented at the James Hutton Institute’s Annual Research Symposium on 11 November 2026 at P&J Live, Aberdeen.
The £500 prize recognises an early-career researcher who demonstrates excellence in communicating scientific research to a non-specialist audience, making complex science engaging, accessible and relevant.
Zoë received the award for her presentation, “Back to the Future: Helping Barley Grow on Low Nutrient Soils Using Ancient Genetics.”
Her research explores how Bere barley, an ancient Scottish variety cultivated for thousands of years, could help improve modern barley's ability to grow in nutrient-poor soils. By investigating the genetic characteristics that allow Bere to use manganese efficiently, Zoë aims to identify genes that could support the development of more resilient barley varieties requiring fewer agricultural inputs.
Her presentation highlighted the importance of preserving and studying traditional crop varieties to address modern agricultural challenges, including sustainable food production and climate resilience.
SSCR congratulates Zoë on this well-deserved achievement and thanks everyone who participated in the symposium, particularly the speakers and judging panel.
The Society looks forward to continuing to support and celebrate early-career researchers and excellence in science communication.
Download Zoë Marshall's Award-Winning Presentation (PDF)
