Luke Barnes

Project Title: The Impact of Peat-Free Compost Alternatives on the Physical, Nutritional and Sensory Quality of Brassica

Overview: Luke developed an interest in sustainable horticulture during my Environmental Science BSc (Hons), where he graduated with first-class honours. Afterward, he joined a vertical farming start-up in Milan, Italy, where he conducted research trials which directly led to the establishment of Italy’s first commercially operating vertical farm. Following the advent of COVID-19, he returned to the UK, undertaking research roles at a vertical farming technology start-up and a vegan cheese scale-up. In the latter, he led product development trials and implemented food safety protocols. During this time, he also undertook training at a business accelerator with the University of Lincoln. More recently he embarked on his PhD journey, driven by an ambition to further develop his scientific expertise. Here he is focused on the impact of peat-free growing media on Brassica quality, collaborating with commercial producers to address the challenges of peat-free horticulture. During this project, Luke is developing skills in experimental design, high-level statistical analysis in the programming language R, liquid and gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry, presenting his research and writing for publication. He remains committed and immensely grateful to the Walsh Scholarship program for this opportunity, particularly his wonderfully supporting and encouraging project supervisors.

Programme Area: Food Programme

Supervisors: Dr Lael Walsh, Dr Dilip Rai

Location: Ashtown Food Research Centre

Funding Source: Teagasc