Simon Jeffery is a Professor of Soil Ecology at Harper Adams University, where his research explores how soil organisms underpin soil health, fertility, and ecosystem functioning. His work spans micro-scale ecological interactions through to global environmental processes, and he leads and contributes to numerous interdisciplinary projects, including initiatives on regenerative agriculture, paludiculture, circular nutrient management, and soil–water relationships. He also leads taught modules on regenerative farming systems, sustainability, and carbon management.
Beyond academia, Simon serves as the Executive Director of the Earth Rover Program, a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to advancing our understanding of soils through the use of high-frequency seismic waves. This role complements his broader mission to develop evidence-based, sustainable approaches to land use that enhance soil resilience and long-term ecosystem services.
Simon's talk will delve into the world beneath our feet, bringing that world and its organisms to life with a range of macrophotographs and videos and show why we should all care more about one of our most precious resources - soil.