Two Canadian scientists have been recognized in a global image competition that shines a spotlight on ecological research. The 2026 joint BMC Ecology and Evolution and BMC Zoology image competition honored 11 photographs taken by researchers worldwide at different stages of their careers. These images showcase animals in their natural habitats, scientists and students engaged in ecological research, and various natural landscapes.
Liam Brennan, a master’s student and photographer at the University of New Brunswick (UNB), clinched the top spot in the research in action category with his photo titled “Intertidal education.” This photo captures Brennan supervising undergraduate students during a fish monitoring project in St. Andrews, N.B. The image depicts the students working at night under the full moon, showcasing a moment of curiosity on their faces.
Meanwhile, Allen (Haolun) Tian, a post-doctoral researcher affiliated with Queen’s University, Hangzhou Normal University, and Zhejiang University in China, secured the “protecting our planet” category with his image titled “A bridge between past and present.” This photo is a composite of 33 drone images of the Long Sault Parkway in the upper St. Lawrence River, illustrating the interconnectedness of ecosystems and the impact of human activities on the environment.
Both researchers emphasized the importance of using images to communicate their scientific work and engage the public in understanding the value of environmental education and ecological research. They believe that sharing visual representations of their research can foster empathy towards nature and contribute to conservation efforts.