Two Lancaster University scientists have been recognised for their contributions to conservation science in this year's ZSL Awards.
Dr Sally Keith and Professor Nick Graham, both researchers within Lancaster Environment Centre, received awards at the ZSL's Awards Celebration Event in London this week.
Each year, ZSL recognises outstanding achievements in zoology and conservation science through a programme of prestigious awards.
Dr Keith, a Senior Lecturer in Marine Biology whose research focuses on how environmental change alters coral reefs, particularly fish behaviour, has pioneered the concept of 'macrobehaviour'. This emerging discipline explores behavioural patterns across large geographical regions, broad taxonomic groups, and long timescales, marking a departure from the traditional focus on individual species or local population.
In recognition of her work across these areas, Dr Keith was awarded the ZSL's Scientific Medal.
Professor Sir Jim Smith FRS, Chair of Council, ZSL, said: "Sally is one of the UK's, and the world's, leading researchers in macroecology and behavioural ecology, and recently combined the two to define the field of macrobehaviour.
"Sally's research also focuses on behavioural ecology, and how this influences species outcomes to environmental change. Sally exemplifies a scientist who commits deeply to a biological system, such as coral reef fishes, and uses that system to address a remarkable breadth of ecological questions driven by curiosity, rigour, and creativity. She has an exceptional ability to see the bigger picture, forging robust connections between distinct scientific disciplines and advancing ecology through conceptual innovation and insight."
Dr Keith said: "I'm truly honoured to receive the ZSL Scientific Medal. Establishing macrobehaviour as an emerging field is a collective effort that will catalyse new insight into the role of animal behaviour in shaping how ecosystems function and respond to rapid change. I hope that such understanding will underpin innovative conservation strategies and offer new ways to address the biodiversity crisis. This medal is very much shared with my collaborators, mentors, students and the local communities whose knowledge, generosity and support make our work possible."
Distinguished Professor Nick Graham, a Chair in Marine Ecology at Lancaster University, was presented with the Marsh Award for Marine and Freshwater Conservation. This award recognises fundamental research that has significant impact on marine and freshwater conservation.
Professor Smith said: "Nick's influential work, spanning coral reef ecosystems, climate impacts, food security and fisheries, and social-ecological systems, has resulted in multiple landmark papers that have shaped real-world conservation outcomes and global policy dialogues. His seabird-nutrient research has catalysed global island restoration initiatives.
"Nick has been invited to speak at the highest levels of global policy, and his ability to bridge rigorous science with conservation practice and global policy advocacy distinguish him as a leader in marine conservation."
Professor Graham said: "I am absolutely delighted to be awarded this year's ZSL Marsh Award for Marine and Freshwater Conservation. I have long admired the work of ZSL, and have collaborated with a number of ZSL researchers, so I am thrilled to be recognised with this award. My research has always been very applied, aimed at informing conservation, sustainability and resource dependent societies. This work has been a collective endeavour, and I share this award with the many people I have been fortunate to work with."
