Lawn's research has underpinned the Australian soybean and mungbean industries. He led the conception, strategic planning, research and operational management of the first sugar CRC which enabled the sugar industry to reduce its environmental footprint and avoid excessive regulation. He has written or co-authored more than 260 scientific publications in some of the world?s top agricultural journals. His work has been recognised by scientists world-wide, by Australian industry and by professional organisations at state, national and international level. As a North Queenslander, global authority on tropical agricultural research and advocate for science, Lawn will contribute significantly to the Academy.