Lincoln University Professor of Plant Biosecurity Philip Hulme has been awarded the 2026 Rutherford Medal for his significant research into invasive species and the risks they pose to New Zealand.

Many readers will know of Phil, a leader in biosecurity research and former member of the Zespri Innovation Kiwifruit Biosecurity Advisory Committee.

His work to better understand how pests, weeds and diseases establish and spread, and how those risks can be reduced, has important relevance for horticulture. It’s great recognition of the science and expertise that underpins New Zealand’s biosecurity system and helps protect industries like kiwifruit.