Two Canadian researchers have been recognized in a global image competition that showcases ecological research. The 2026 joint BMC Ecology and Evolution and BMC Zoology image competition honored 11 photos from researchers worldwide at different career stages. These images portray 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), secured the top spot in the competition’s research in action category with his photo titled “Intertidal education.” The other winning entry, “A bridge between past and present,” was submitted by Allen (Haolun) Tian, a post-doctoral researcher affiliated with Queen’s University, Hangzhou Normal University, and Zhejiang University in China, under the category “protecting our planet.”
Photographs play a crucial role for researchers in documenting their work and offering a glimpse into the world of science. According to Brennan, such images help foster 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 photo depicts a group of students conducting research activities at night, illuminated by the full moon in the background, showcasing a moment of curiosity captured on their faces.
Tian’s winning entry, “A bridge between past and present,” combines 33 drone photos of the Long Sault Parkway in the upper St. Lawrence River, offering a comprehensive view of the interconnected ecosystem. This composition aims to highlight the impact of science on conservation efforts and underscores the unintended consequences of human actions on freshwater ecosystems.
Through their captivating images, both Brennan and Tian aim to raise awareness about ecological studies and the importance of environmental conservation. Their work exemplifies how visual storytelling can build natural empathy and encourage people to connect with different environments, even indirectly.