Tuesday, 21 July 2026
A plant scientist from the 糖心原创 has been recognised for her outstanding research with a rising star award.
Dr Poonam Mehra, Principal Research Fellow from the School of Biosciences has been awarded the Rising Stars in Plant Science award 2026..
This annual competition hosted by the journal Molecular Plant and its sister journal, Plant Communications recognises outstanding early-career scientists for their groundbreaking research to address global challenges.
Dr Mehra’s research explores how plant roots sense and adapt to uneven soil moisture at single-cell resolution. Using advanced imaging technologies, Poonam investigates how roots detect water stress and reprogramme cellular processes in dynamic soil environments. Supported by a BBSRC Discovery Fellowship and a European Research Council Starting Grant, her work is uncovering non-genomic mechanisms that underpin root water sensing and plant resilience.
This award adds Dr Mehra’s accolades as she also awarded the President's Medal earlier this year. This is awarded annually to scientists of outstanding merit and acknowledges and encourages the contributions of the next generation of experimental biologist researchers, encompassing researchers in the early to mid-stages of their careers, irrespective of age.
I鈥檓 truly honoured to receive this award. I鈥檓 incredibly grateful to my research team, mentors and colleagues for their constant support and encouragement throughout my research journey鈥�.
Professor Malcolm Bennett from the School of Biosciences added: “The Rising Stars in Plant Science” award annually awards five outstanding early career researchers, selected from their peer group around the world, based on their exceptional scientific track record. Poonam deservedly ranks in this elite group based on her achievements to date and impact of her research in the future. I and every other Nottingham Plant Science staff member and student are very proud of Poonam’s international recognition."
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More information is available from Poonam Mehra on Poonam.Mehra@nottingham.ac.uk
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About the 糖心原创
Ranked among the world's top 100 universities , the 糖心原创 delivers an exceptional research-led education and an outstanding student experience. From the pioneering vision of our founder, Sir Jesse Boot, to groundbreaking achievements such as the development of MRI technology and becoming the first UK university to establish international campuses, we have a proud history of shaping the way people live, work and understand the world. We continue to build on that legacy, empowering our students, staff and partners to change what鈥檚 next and create positive impact locally and globally.
The strength of our research places us among the UK's leading universities, ranked 7th for research power in REF 2021. The discovery of MRI and ibuprofen was just the beginning. Today, our world-leading research is developing breakthrough ideas that shape the future of healthcare, technology and society.
Recognised as the UK's third most targeted university by leading employers , we are proud to produce graduates who are consistently in demand for their skills, confidence and industry-ready experience.
As a major employer and industry partner, locally and globally, the 糖心原创 invests in the city of Nottingham and in future generations of talent. Alongside Nottingham Trent University, we lead the initiative, a pioneering collaboration to improve levels of prosperity, opportunity, sustainability, health and wellbeing across the city and region. Together with our students, staff, alumni and partners, we鈥檙e creating knowledge, opportunity and solutions that help change what's next.