Professor Ian Woodhead is Lincoln Agritech’s first Emeritus Fellow, recognised for more than 40 years of contribution to the company. His research has focused on measuring the dielectric properties of composite materials, microwave and mm wave measurements, and high‑speed electronics.
Ian has created sensors that have been commercialised and globally marketed: devices to evaluate electric fence performance, the Aquaflex electronic soil moisture sensor that enabled more efficient irrigation and sustainable water use, TDRI used for road sensing, Bluelab’s Pulse conductivity and moisture sensor, and the Hydrometrics GW50 groundwater nitrate sensor. He is a member of IEEE, serves on editorial and advisory boards internationally, and was, among other national leadership roles, portfolio leader for the Science for Technological Innovation National Science Challenge.
Ian’s work has advanced agricultural and environmental technologies, with his sensors widely adopted by farmers and industry. His leadership has been recognised with the Royal Society Te Apārangi’s Scott Medal, awarded for pioneering engineering science and technology.
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