Matthew Naish

What inspired your interest in plant science?

My interest in plant science grew from a general fascination with science and deepened through hands-on lab experiences. It began with my high school work experience, where I spent two weeks in a plant physiology lab at Lancaster University. This sparked my curiosity about plant biology and inspired me to explore the field further. The following year, I received a Nuffield bursary, which allowed me to work on a five-week project studying the ecology of predator–prey interactions across different environments. This project gave me a deeper appreciation for the role plants play in these systems.

As I continued my studies, I became increasingly interested in the remarkable adaptability and diversity of plants. Unlike animals, plants must dynamically adjust to their surroundings, acting as incredible ‘factories’ that must adapt in changing environments. Learning about the biological processes that enable this adaptability truly hooked me, and my passion for plant science has only grown since then!