Nominations for the 2026 Fellowships Award are open for submissions.
Nominations are to include:
– a proposer, a seconder and five supporters, all of whom are financial or honorary members of Soil Science Australia
– a nomination statement up to 1000 words stating why the nominee is worthy of receiving a Fellowship and, where applicable, up to five of the nominee’s most significant publications or other works
– the nominee’s curriculum vitae
– names of at least three referees who can be contacted to provide a written report as to the standing and reputation of the nominee in the profession of soil science.
Soil Science Australia may honour up to three members each year as new fellows. The honour is conferred in recognition of outstanding achievements and distinction in any areas related to soils and soil science. The nominee must be an active financial Ordinary or Honorary Life member of Soil Science Australia.
– Fellows serve to inspire and develop extraordinary future leaders.
– They champion our associations’ impact and leadership in soil science.
– When called on. they may help to create solutions to the most critical issues affecting our profession.
Fellowships are announced by the Federal President or proxy at each Soil Science Australia national conference or another event determined by the Federal Council.
Professor Chengrong Chen has been awarded the prestigious SSA Fellowship for his outstanding contributions to soil and environmental biogeochemistry.
Over the past 20 years, he has become a leading figure in soil science, tackling global issues such as soil degradation, climate change, and pollution—including microplastics.
A prolific researcher, Professor Chen has published over 227 peer-reviewed papers, with 16,000+ citations and an h-index of 68, placing him among the top soil scientists globally. His work has reshaped understanding of nutrient cycling, fire-affected ecosystems, and land-sea nutrient flows.
He has secured over $33 million in research funding and led the $80 million Solving Plastic Waste CRC initiative. His research has influenced national policy, including the Philippines’ National Soil Health Strategy and its first National Soil Chemistry Laboratory.
As a mentor, he has trained over 2,000 undergraduates and supervised 30+ postgraduates, many now in senior academic roles. He also serves in key international roles, including Chair of Commission 4.3 of the International Union of Soil Sciences.
He has been a longtime supporter of SSA, with many significant contributions including regular field trips and nurturing SSA Student Award recipients.
SSA proudly honours Professor Chen for his enduring impact on science, policy, and education.
Soil Science Australia is proud to award Fellowship to Professor Helen Suter in recognition of her exceptional contributions to soil science.
Over a distinguished career spanning research, teaching, leadership, and industry engagement, Professor Suter has advanced the understanding of nitrogen dynamics, fertiliser efficiency, and soil health in agricultural systems. Her work has had significant national impact, supported by strong industry partnerships and over $47 million in research funding.
Internationally recognised for her expertise, Professor Suter was recently elected Chair of the International Plant Nutrition Colloquium (2028) and Vice President of its governing committee. She has published extensively, mentored the next generation of soil scientists, and led curriculum development at the University of Melbourne, shaping soil science education for future professionals.
A long-standing and active member of Soil Science Australia, Professor Suter has served in multiple leadership roles and continues to promote the discipline through outreach, mentoring, and public engagement. Her contributions exemplify the highest standards of scientific excellence, professional service, and societal impact.
We are honoured to welcome Professor Helen Suter as a Fellow of Soil Science Australia.
| Year | Name | State |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | Professor Jim He | |
| 2024 | Dr Andrew Biggs | |
| 2023 | Dr Gupta Vadakattu | SA |
| 2022 | Professor Brajesh Singh | NSW |
| 2021 | None Awarded | |
| 2020 | None Awarded | |
| 2019 | Professor Robert Fitzpatrick CPSS | SA |
| 2019 | Professor Leigh Sullivan CPSS | ACT |
| 2019 | Associate Professor Damien Field CPSS | NSW |
| 2018 | Dr Melissa Salt CPSS | SA |
| 2018 | Professor Caixian Tang | VIC |
| 2017 | Professor Michael McLaughlin | SA |
| 2017 | Professor Balwant Singh | NSW |
| 2016 | Emeritus Professor Lynette Abbott | WA |
| 2016 | The Late Professor Steven Raine | QLD |
| 2016 | Professor Neal Menzies | NSW |
| 2015 | Professor Alexander McBratney | NSW |
| 2015 | Professor Deli Chen | VIC |
| 2014 | Professor Pichhu Rengasamy | SA |
