Two Canadian researchers were honored in a global image competition celebrating ecological research. The 2026 joint BMC Ecology and Evolution and BMC Zoology image competition recognized 11 photos from researchers worldwide at different career stages. These images showcased 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 research in action category with his photo “Intertidal education.” This photo was taken while Brennan supervised undergraduate students monitoring coastal fish species in St. Andrews, N.B. The image captured the students working at night, their faces reflecting curiosity, with the full moon adding an artistic touch.
Allen (Haolun) Tian, a post-doctoral researcher affiliated with Queen’s University, Hangzhou Normal University, and Zhejiang University in China, won the category “protecting our planet” with his photo “A bridge between past and present.” This photo featured a composition of 33 drone photos showcasing the Long Sault Parkway in the upper St. Lawrence River, illustrating the impact of human activity on ecosystems.
Both photographers emphasized the importance of images in building public trust and awareness of environmental issues. Brennan highlighted the value of conveying ecological research through compelling visuals, while Tian aimed to evoke empathy towards ecosystems, even those affected by human actions. Their work showcased the significance of visual storytelling in promoting conservation and scientific understanding.