Fellowships are bestowed on scientists who have made a prominent contribution to the advancement of the biological sciences, and have held positions of senior responsibility.

Professor Foster’s research focuses on a range of interconnecting themes including plant virology, plant pathology, plant molecular biology, molecular mycology and biotechnology. This interdisciplinary work has been supported by a range of funding sources continuously since 1992.

He has authored more than 100 scientific papers, patents, reviews and books, and has received the Norbrook Laboratories Medal and the Society for Experimental Biology President's Medal.