Drs Ferguson And Ferguson Are Royal Fellows

HortResearch scientists Ross Ferguson and Ian Ferguson can now add the coveted FRSNZ after their names. They have both been elected Fellows of the Royal Society of New Zealand. (And no, they are not related).

The RSNZ awards Fellowships to distinguished scientists, engineers and technologists who have made a notable contribution to research and development in New Zealand.

"Naturally I am delighted and honoured," said Dr Ross Ferguson. "Now on with the work."

Dr Ian Ferguson also said he also felt honoured "I hope I can contribute something to the championing of science in New Zealand," he said.

Known as the father of kiwifruit biology, Dr Ross Ferguson is regarded as a leading authority on kiwifruit. He started by determining the nutritional requirements of the then newly domesticated crop, later turned his attention to the genetic history of the genus and eventually unravelled the complex paths by which the kiwifruit became a crop. He has considerable input into the HortResearch kiwifruit-breeding programme including the development of Hort16A, trading as ZESPRITM GOLD Kiwifruit.

And New Zealand fruit growers can be grateful to Dr Ian Ferguson for several reasons. His discoveries have saved million of dollars in otherwise lost fruit exports and his explanation of the link between postharvest rot and calcium imbalance in ripening fruit has been of crucial importance to orchardists. His research has had a major impact on the improvement of fruit quality.

For further information contact: Dr Ross Ferguson or Dr Ian Ferguson, HortResearch Mt Albert, Tel: 09 815 4200. Fax: 09 815 4201. Email: rferguson@hort.cri.nz. Email: iferguson@hort.cri.nz

Or Liz Brook, Media Manager, HortResearch Corporate Office, Tel: 06 351 7000 Extn 7749. Fax: 06 351 7038. Mobile: 025 505 912. Email: lbrook@hort.cri.nz

Liz Brook Media Manager HortResearch Corporate Office Private Bag 11 030 Palmerston North New Zealand

Tel: +64 (6) 351 7000 Ext 7749 Fax: +64 (6) 351 7038 Mobile: 025 505 912

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