Senior Lecturer recognised with international teaching award

Posted 9 March

A Harper Adams University entomologist has been recognised for her outstanding contribution to teaching with a prestigious international award from the Royal Entomological Society (RES).

Dr Heather Campbell, Senior Lecturer in Entomology at Harper Adams University and a member of the Ecology, Evolution and Conservation Research Group, received the Royal Entomological Society's 2025 Higher Education Teaching Award.

The award celebrates exceptional teaching and learning in insect science at University level, recognising educators who inspire students and help train the next generation of entomologists at a time when understanding and conserving insect biodiversity has never been more important.

Recipients demonstrate excellence and innovation in teaching entomology, integrate research into their teaching, mentor students toward successful careers, and promote inclusive learning environments that support a diverse range of students.

Dr Campbell teaches across undergraduate and postgraduate programmes at Harper Adams, combining lectures, laboratory work, and field-based training to help students develop both theoretical understanding and practical skills in insect science. Her teaching is widely praised for its interactive, student-centred approach.

One student noted: “Heather's lectures have always been a bit different, and her approach to teaching has been refreshing and honest. I have enjoyed how she has opened the floor to diverse voices and perspectives during lectures and shared her own experiences as a woman in an underrepresented field.”

Another nomination commented: “Heather is an enthusiastic and passionate educator who instils these qualities in those lucky enough to experience her teaching. She is very deserving of the RES Higher Education Teaching Award, and I hope her excellent work in entomology continues to receive the recognition it merits.”

Dr Campbell’s modules incorporate a range of creative learning methods, from laboratory-based identification sessions to collaborative activities that encourage students to explore scientific ideas in new ways. Students have highlighted how this variety of teaching approaches makes her lectures engaging and memorable. One student reflected: “Throughout my studies, Heather has incorporated many different teaching methods which really helped to solidify my learning. Insect Conservation in particular has been a joy — she brought in guest lecturers, encouraged us to create 'positive news of the week' presentations, and combined practical teaching with more traditional lectures. The content was delivered in new and interesting ways which really supported learning.”

Nomination statements also highlighted Dr Campbell’s commitment to mentoring students and supporting their professional development.

Over the past five years, she has supervised numerous postgraduate research projects, helping students publish scientific papers and progress to research careers. Dr Campbell is also actively involved in outreach and public engagement, regularly sharing her enthusiasm for insects through events such as science festivals and entomology days.

Her research focuses on insect biodiversity, community ecology, and conservation, with a particular emphasis on the ecology of ants and other invertebrates. By integrating her research into teaching, Dr Campbell ensures students engage with the latest developments in insect science and understand how ecological research can address real-world challenges such as biodiversity loss and climate change.

Alongside her teaching at Harper Adams, Dr Campbell contributes to the wider development of entomology education. She serves as Chair of the Education and Training Committee and Trustee of the Royal Entomological Society, helping to shape initiatives that support students, educators, and early-career researchers. She also acts as an External Examiner, supporting quality assurance at external institutions.

Dr Campbell said: “It is a real honour to receive this award from the Royal Entomological Society.

“Entomology is such an exciting field, and I feel incredibly fortunate to work with students who are curious about insects and passionate about understanding the roles they play in ecosystems.

“One of the most rewarding parts of teaching is seeing students develop the confidence and skills to pursue careers in science, conservation, and environmental management.”