SETAC AU and ACEDD are pleased to announce Sharmin Akter (Australian National University) as the 2022 Peter Teasdale Memorial Award winner.
Sharmin's research aims to investigate the impact of neonicotinoids on soil microorganisms, community structure, and ecological functioning that is not well understood globally, let alone under Australian conditions. Given the importance of soil microorganisms to soil fertility, it is hypothesised that neonicotinoids or their degration products will negatively impact soil microbial composions, structure, and function ultimately challenging long-term production outcomes and potentially leading to environmental legacu effects. Sharmin's studies will assist Australian agriculture and the environment by identifiying future risks posed by contemporary practices. The research will explore the impacts on soil microorganisms after exposure to neonicotinoids in comparison with untreated soil. The award will be used to cover the cost of laboratyr analysis of neonicotinoid residue, soil chemical properties, and genetic identification of soil microbes.
Sharmin's application included a clear description of how the funds would be used to help achieve project success and clearly justified the use of the funds for analytical support. Congratulations Sharmin and all other award nominees; the assessment panels were very impressed with the standard of the applications.
This award has been established jointly by SETAC-Australasia and the Australian Council of Environmental Deans and Directors (ACEDD) in honour of Professor Peter Teasdale. Peter's contribution to environmental chemistry and water research spanned more than 25 years and included the passionate support of research students and early career researchers.
2022 Peter Teasdale Memorial Award winner Sharmin Akter
Photo of Professor Peter Teasdale at the 2019 SETAC AU Conference in Darwin, NT