Nicola Cannon

Professor Nicola Cannon is a dedicated educator and researcher at the Royal Agricultural University. As an agronomist she understands the challenges of arable cropping systems and the complex issues that impact on yield and quality of crops. Nicola has a strong appreciation of the current research needs of the agricultural community and also the challenges of adoption by having a grounded agricultural background and professional understanding.

“My particular research and knowledge exchange is focused within the field of organic and low-input cropping systems as evidenced by my publications and KE events organised. I have a strong interest in crop management techniques which can enhance soil health, weed control, crop yield and therefore the sustainability of cropping systems. I have conducted field trials over a number of years looking at variety or systems interactions on yield and quality as well as studies into precision farming. In 2010 I set up the Quarry Field trial which is now registered as a recognised European long term field experiment. I have developed a detailed knowledge of weed challenges, crop and weed interactions and investigated techniques for reducing reliance on chemical weed control. I am an enthusiastic, dedicated and realistic educator and researcher who understands the needs of the farming community.”

Current projects include:

• Determining opportunities for utilising excess nitrates in drinking water within agriculture through nutrient recovery
• Developing urine-based fertilisers
• Evaluating the impact of war damage to soils in Ukraine and training in field evaluators
• The impact of cultivation intensity on crop establishment, yield and soils
• The role of legumes in cropping systems
• Non-chemical weed control

Other research interests:

• Bicropping
• Farm soil carbon
• Agronomy factors influencing soil health
• Weed detection systems
• Drone use in cropping systems