Simon Edwards

Professor Simon Edwards is a Professor of Plant Pathology at Harper Adams University's Agriculture and Environment Department. He specializes in plant health diagnostics, Fusarium head blight, and mycotoxin production in cereals. His research focuses on developing quantitative PCR assays for plant pathogens, agricultural contaminants, and nematode management strategies. He leads modules in Plant Biosecurity, Surveillance and Diagnostics, and Postgraduate Plant Health programs.

• Teaching: Module leader for Postgraduate Plant Health, Plant biosecurity, and Molecular diagnostics training
• Research: Nematology Research Group leader

Current projects include HGCA-funded studies on Fusarium mycotoxins in oats (2021-2026), Bayer research on cereal seed disease resurgence, and EU projects like CropDIVA and MyToolBox. He serves on the WHO/FAO JECFA committee and is a member of major plant pathology societies.

His research spans nematicide development, Fusarium species pathogenicity, and mycotoxin mitigation strategies. Over 60 peer-reviewed articles address topics like PCR diagnostics, Fusarium toxin dynamics, and Brassica-derived biofumigation.

Key collaborations include AHDB (Agriculture & Horticulture Development Board), NIBIO (Norway), and international mycotoxin management initiatives. His work emphasizes practical solutions for crop protection and food safety in agricultural systems.