Philip Hulme

Biography

Philip Hulme is the Distinguished Professor of Plant Biosecurity at Lincoln University, New Zealand. He is known for his pioneering work on the concept of One Biosecurity, which integrates human, animal, plant, and environmental health to address biosecurity threats comprehensively. His interdisciplinary approach emphasizes the interconnectedness of these sectors to effectively prevent and mitigate the impacts of invasive alien species. His work has been instrumental in highlighting the need for a unified biosecurity strategy that transcends traditional boundaries, aiming to protect global health and biodiversity from the increasing risks posed by biological invasions. He is internationally recognised for his research on biological invasions, especially his studies on invasive plant species. He has examined plant invasions in multiple global ecosystems ranging from the temperate biomes of the United States and Europe, the tropical forests of Sri Lanka and Tanzania, and even in the high Arctic in Scandinavia. His research covers all aspects of plant invasions ranging from introduction pathways, weed risk assessment, spatial spread, impacts and management. He has always focused on the applied significance of his research and has influenced international policy through his groundbreaking work on the ornamental nursery trade and especially the role of botanic gardens in plant invasions. In New Zealand, his research has tackled issues such as wilding conifer invasions, current and future risks of Acacia invasions, impacts of invaders on grassland ecosystems and the role of plant mutualisms on invasions. He received the New Zealand Ecological Society Award for Ecological Excellence in 2022 and was the inaugural recipient of the Lincoln University Global Science Medal in 2024.