Fungi are critically important organisms, and yet we know very little about them. © notsuperstar/ Shutterstock

• The project aims to revolutionise global food security and climate change strategies by uncovering the fundamental role of soil fungi.

Led by Prof Kate Field from The University of Sheffield’s School of Biosciences, the group will reveal how the diverse microscopic networks beneath our feet are crucial in boosting crop resilience, enhancing nutrient absorption, and acting as powerful carbon sinks.

It is hoped the findings will unlock nature-based solutions to reshape agricultural practices and tackle the planetary emergency.

Dr Silvia Pressel said: “It’s a privilege to be part of this project. By exploring overlooked fungal diversity, we aim to develop nature-based tools that enhance ecosystem resilience and promote sustainable agriculture with a lower environmental impact, for a future where people and planet thrive.”

The team will investigate previously overlooked fungal diversity to reveal its crucial role in nutrient exchange between plants and mycorrhizal fungi (a type of soil fungi found nearly wherever there are plants), how they lock carbon into the soil, and the resilience of these crucial networks.

Researchers, including Dr Pressel, will explore the wider effects of diverse fungi on carbon, plant health and ecosystems, ultimately turning the new discoveries into practical strategies for sustainable agriculture and climate mitigation.

Prof Katie Field of The University of Sheffield said: “This investment reflects growing recognition of the vital but overlooked roles fungi play in the health of our planet. The freedom to pursue fundamental research of this scale, with the potential for real-world impact on agriculture, ecosystems, and climate, is truly exciting.”

The Royal Society’s Faraday Fellowships

Prof Kate Field is one of seven researchers who have been announced as the first recipients of the Royal Society Faraday Discovery Fellowships, prestigious long-term awards to support research leaders in the UK.

This flagship grant, supported by a fund from the Department of Science, Innovation and Technology, provides up to £8m over a 10-year period to allow talented researchers to pursue high-quality original research and develop world-leading research groups in the UK.

ENDS

Notes for Editors

Natural History Museum Press Office

Tel: +44 (0)20 7942 5654 / 07799690151

Email: press@nhm.ac.uk

The Natural History Museum is a world-leading scientific research centre and one of the world’s most visited museums. Our mission is to create advocates for the planet – people who act for nature.

Our 400 scientists are finding solutions to the planetary emergency - from reversing biodiversity loss to resourcing the green economy.

We are seeking an additional £150 million to transform our South Kensington building: placing our groundbreaking research at its heart, revitalising four existing galleries, opening two new magnificent galleries and delighting 1 million more visitors a year with the wonders of the natural world.