Dr Jacob W. Smith
- Postdoctoral Research Associate
Contact
About
Jacob Smith is a Postdoctoral Research Associate at the Department of Plant Sciences, University of Cambridge.
Qualifications
2019 - PhD in Applied Mathematics and Theoretical Physics on 'Timescales of processes controlling water vapour entry to the stratosphere' - Department of Applied Mathematics and Theoretical Physics, University of Cambridge, England
2013 - MPhys inPhysics - University of Oxford, England
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Awards
2026 - The Cambridge Climate & Nature Awards for Research Impact and Engagement
2025 - Early Career Researcher co-runner up - The Cambridge Awards for Research Impact and Engagement
Public Engagement
2025 - 'How can farmers use models to prevent wheat disease?' - Youtube
Research
Research Group
Research Overview
With a background in climate science, I investigate the large-scale distribution of wind-borne plant pests and pathogens. I also develop and operate forecast models (such as Lagrangian dispersal and large-scale epidemiological models) to predict infection risk of destructive fungal pathogens, including wheat rust and wheat blast. I work closely with international partners including CIMMYT, UK Met Office and with collaborators located at institutions across Sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia.