Two Canadian scholars have been recognized in a worldwide image contest spotlighting ecological research. The 2026 joint BMC Ecology and Evolution and BMC Zoology image competition honored 11 photos captured by researchers from around the globe at different career stages. These images showcase animals in their natural habitats, scientists and students engaging in ecological research, and various natural landscapes.
Liam Brennan, a master’s student and photographer at the University of New Brunswick (UNB), clinched the competition’s research in action category with his photo “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, secured the “protecting our planet” category with his image “A bridge between past and present.”
Photographs serve as a tool for researchers to document their work and provide insight into the realm of science. Brennan highlighted the importance of images in fostering public trust in environmental education and ecological research.
Brennan captured “Intertidal education” while overseeing undergraduate students monitoring coastal fish species in St. Andrews, N.B. The unique setting of the Bay of Fundy, known for its extreme tides, added a challenging yet captivating element to the photographic narrative.
Tian’s image, “A bridge between past and present,” comprised 33 drone photos showcasing the Long Sault Parkway in the upper St. Lawrence River. This visual composition aimed to emphasize the interconnectedness of ecosystems and the impacts of human activities on the environment.
Both photographers underscored the role of images in fostering empathy towards nature and raising awareness about conservation efforts. Through their lens, they aim to bridge the gap between scientific research and public understanding of ecological issues.