Two Canadian researchers have been recognized in a global image competition that celebrates ecological research. The 2026 joint BMC Ecology and Evolution and BMC Zoology image competition honored 11 photos taken by researchers from around the world at different stages of their careers. These images showcase animals in their natural habitats, scientists and students engaged in ecological research, and various natural scenes.
Liam Brennan, a master’s student and photographer at the University of New Brunswick (UNB), won the competition’s research in action category with his photo titled “Intertidal education.” On the other hand, Allen (Haolun) Tian, a post-doctoral researcher affiliated with Queen’s University, Hangzhou Normal University, and Zhejiang University in China, claimed the “protecting our planet” category with his photo named “A bridge between past and present.”
According to Brennan, images play a crucial role in documenting researchers’ work and providing insight into the world of science. He emphasized the importance of images in building public trust regarding environmental education and ecological research pursuits. Brennan captured the winning photo while supervising undergraduate students monitoring coastal fish species in St. Andrews, N.B., showcasing a moment of curiosity among the students under the moonlit sky.
Tian’s winning image, “A bridge between past and present,” showcases 33 drone photos of the Long Sault Parkway, illustrating how human activities have impacted ecosystems. Tian believes that such images can magnify the impact of science, especially in conservation efforts. The composition of the islands in the upper St. Lawrence River symbolizes the unintended consequences of human actions on freshwater ecosystems.
Photographers like Brennan and Tian believe that their images serve as a tool to build natural empathy and connect people with environments they may not have direct access to. By showcasing the beauty of ecosystems and the challenges they face, these photos aim to raise awareness and foster a deeper appreciation for nature and wildlife.
The BMC image competition also recognized other outstanding photographers, including Sritam Kumar Sethy from Berhampur University in India and Ryan Wagner from Washington State University, among others. Their compelling images captured diverse aspects of ecological research, conservation efforts, and the intricate relationships within nature.
Through their visually captivating images, these photographers hope to inspire action and promote a greater understanding of the importance of ecological research and conservation in safeguarding our planet’s biodiversity.