Presentation of the newly elected EWRS Board members
The EWRS is pleased to share the presentations of the newly elected Board members who will start their assignment on 1st January 2026.
1. Scientific Secretary (2026-2029)
Dr. Lynn Tatnell, ADAS, UK
I am a research scientist at ADAS in the UK and the sector lead for weed biology in the crop protection group. I have 29 years of experience of developing and leading weed-related research and consultancy projects, including trial design, project management, data analysis, interpretation and reporting of laboratory, glasshouse and field-based experiments. I have a deep understanding of the biology and ecology of grass and broad-leaved, perennial and annual weed species within arable farming, horticultural and grassland systems and a particular interest in integrated weed management systems.
I actively report research findings as practical advice for growers and industry, presenting to industry and scientific audiences (UK and European), project reports and scientific papers. Over the last 15 years I have been study director in five large collaborative, industry/Defra (government) and Levy funded projects ranging from herbicide resistance through to cultural control techniques and currently the UK partner lead in the Horizon funded Oper8 project promoting alternative weed management. I have been a member of EWRS for the last 25 years, attending as many Symposiums and working group workshops as possible in that time.
As an EWRS member for 25 years I would now very much enjoy the challenge of getting more involved in the society and being able to give my time and enthusiasm to support current and future weed research scientists. I am very passionate about encouraging a newer generation of weed biologists, as my career to date has been so varied and rewarding. I have been very lucky to meet so many interesting and amazing scientists across Europe in my experience with EWRS and would now like to be able to give back to others by helping to shape future events and developments within the society. I have been the secretary of the BCPC (British Crop Protection Council) Weed Expert Group for the past 15 years, organising three group meetings a year and co-organising the agenda and meeting logistics for the UK Annual Weed Review. I am an organised and methodical person, so I feel I would have the skills and relevant experience to manage this role and will enjoy working as part of the EWRS team.
2. Vice-President (2026-27)
Prof. Hüsrev Mennan, Ondokuz Mayis University, Türkiye
I am a professor at the Faculty of Agriculture, Ondokuz Mayis University, Türkiye. My academic and research interests are primarily centered on herbicide resistance in weeds and the development of integrated weed management (IWM) strategies. Over the years, I have contributed to various national and international projects focusing on the biology and ecology of resistant weed populations, resistance mechanisms, and sustainable weed control approaches. My goal is to provide scientific support for effective and environmentally responsible weed management in agricultural systems.
My motivation to continue serving this distinguished society is rooted in a deep commitment to its mission, values, and the advancement of weed science across Europe and beyond. Over the past 12 years, I have proudly served the society, first as an additional Board Member for four years, followed by eight years as Scientific Secretary. These roles have provided me with valuable insight into the functioning of EWRS and enabled me to make meaningful contributions to its development, outreach, and scientific excellence. During this period, I have worked closely with colleagues to strengthen the scientific activities of EWRS, enhance internal communication, and broaden the reach and inclusiveness of our initiatives.
A key part of my work has been focused on strengthening the involvement of young weed scientists in our society. I have actively supported and initiated various activities, including workshops, training sessions, student travel grants, and mentoring programs. I firmly believe that our society must continue to invest in its next generation to remain innovative, inclusive, and forward-looking. I strongly believe that the future of our discipline depends on sustained support for young researchers, international cooperation, and scientific excellence.
It will be an honour to continue contributing to the growth and impact of EWRS.
3. Additional Board members (2026-2029)
Dr. Zahra Bitarafan, NIBIO, Norway
I hold a PhD in Agronomy, alongside MSc in Agronomy and BSc in Plant Protection. I currently serve as a researcher in weed science at the Norwegian Institute of Bioeconomy Research (NIBIO), Ås, Norway. I have over a decade of academic and applied research experience in Nordic countries, including Denmark and Norway, where my journey has been dedicated to advancing sustainable crop production, with particular emphasis on weed biology and management.
Throughout my career, I have led and contributed to national and international projects on innovative and integrated strategies for weed and invasive plant management, within the broader context of climate change, biodiversity, soil health, and food safety. I have authored more than 30 peer-reviewed papers, contributing to the scientific community, and actively engage with farmers, advisors, and stakeholders to ensure that research findings inform practice. As a member of the European Weed Research Society (EWRS), I am dedicated to serving the society, fostering collaboration, and supporting students. I view EWRS as a dynamic international community and am be honoured to contribute to its growth and mission of advancing weed science across Europe.
Dr. Rebecka Dücker, University of Goettingen, Germany
Background: I grew up on a farm, studied agriculture at the University of Göttingen and completed my PhD at Bayer’s herbicide research facility in Frankfurt. Afterwards, I returned to the University of Göttingen as a lecturer, followed by a PostDoc with Dr. Eric Patterson at Michigan State University in the USA.
Current activities: Since last year, I have been coordinating the international Master’s program Crop Protection in Göttingen, partnering with government agencies, digital agriculture startups, and industry. In addition, I am leading an interdisciplinary project that builds on the legacy of research on weed control thresholds and the ecological value of weeds - combining field trials, AI, and molecular biology - and a second project on the elucidation of herbicide modes of action (inhibitors of VLCFAs).
Activities within EWRS: I first joined the EWRS in 2015, when I presented my master’s thesis at the symposium in Montpellier. Since then, I have joined several symposia, participated in a glyphosate workshop, attended a teaching event in Antalya, participated in the herbicide resistance working group, and published through Weed Research, the society journal. I have always valued good atmosphere at EWRS events and the strong commitment to young researchers within the society.
Motivation: Now, that I have started my own small research group, I feel it is the right time to give back to the weed science community in Europe. I am motivated to contribute to the society’s mission by connecting different weed science disciplines, supporting early-career researchers, and strengthening our journal. I am glad to learn and actively support the activities of a society that has been close to my heart for many years.