FEATURE award

Professor Zora Singh has spent more than three decades working on a simple but important challenge. How do you grow better fruit, keep it fresher for longer, and get it to consumers in the best possible condition? That work has now been recognised on the global stage.

THE Edith Cowan University academic, based in Australia, has received the 2026 Outstanding International Horticulturist Award from the American Society for Horticultural Science (ASHS). It is one of the top honours in the field, recognising long term contributions to research, education and industry.

Prof. Singh is also the first Australian to receive it.

Sharing the news, he said he was “deeply humbled and honoured,” which reflects the nature of a career built not just on individual achievement, but on years of collaboration across research, industry and international networks.

Today, as Foundation Professor of Horticultural Science, his work covers production systems, postharvest biology, fruit quality and supply chains. While these areas can sound technical, the impact is straightforward. Better storage, less waste, stronger export outcomes and improved produce for consumers.

Over the years, Prof. Singh has focused on turning research into practical solutions. His contributions include patented ethylene antagonists to manage fruit ripening, controlled atmosphere systems that improve mango export quality, and non-chemical disinfestation methods that reduce losses in crops such as bush tomatoes.

In practical terms, that means fruit that lasts longer, travels better and arrives in better condition. That matters right across the supply chain, from growers through to retailers and consumers.

He has also played a major role in developing future talent, supervising more than 70 postgraduate and honours students. Many of those students have gone on to work across industry, research and government. Prof. Singh has extensive national and international research collaborations with 151 scientists from 69 universities and research institutions across 22 countries.

“ The ASHS award adds to a long list of recognitions, but like most scientific achievements, it reflects consistent effort over many years rather than a single moment. ”

What stands out most is how closely his work connects science with everyday outcomes. It is not just about research papers or lab results. It is about what happens in orchards, storage facilities and markets.

His work is a reminder that behind every piece of fresh produce is a chain of knowledge and innovation, and people who spend a lifetime improving how that system works.

Prof. Singh’s work covers production systems, postharvest biology, fruit quality and supply chains.