Rate My Professor Derrick Moot

Derrick Moot is Professor of Plant Science in the Department of Agricultural Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture and Life Sciences, at Lincoln University, New Zealand. He earned his PhD from Lincoln University and a Bachelor of Agricultural Science with Honours from the University of Canterbury. After completing his doctorate, he undertook postdoctoral research on climate change impacts in the United Kingdom. Throughout his career at Lincoln University, Moot has led the Dryland Pastures Research Group, focusing on applied field-based research to enhance pastoral systems. His work addresses the growth and development of agricultural plants under environmental stresses, integrating plant physiology, technology, and farm systems to improve outcomes for farmers.

Moot's research specializes in legume-based dryland pastures, particularly lucerne, to boost water and nitrogen use efficiency in summer-dry and drought-prone regions. This has transformed farming practices across New Zealand, from Central Otago to Hawkes Bay, by increasing resilience to drought and climate variability. Internationally, his strategies have advanced lucerne production and utilization in Patagonia, Argentina, Chile, Victoria, and New South Wales, Australia. Key publications include 'Changes in New Zealand red meat production over the past 30 years' (2021, Animal Frontiers), 'Comparative growth and management of white and red clovers' (2009, Irish Journal of Agricultural and Food Research), 'Base temperature and thermal time requirements for germination and emergence of temperate pasture species' (2002, New Zealand Journal of Agricultural Research), and 'A review of grass species yields and growth rates in Northland, New Zealand' (2025, New Zealand Journal of Agricultural Research). With an h-index of 24 and over 7,600 citations, his contributions underscore significant academic impact. Moot has received the Ray Brougham Trophy from the New Zealand Grassland Association (2016), fellowship of Agronomy Australia, awards from Beef + Lamb New Zealand, the New Zealand Grassland Association, and the New Zealand Institute of Agricultural and Horticultural Science, as well as the NZQA national tertiary teaching award (2004) and Lincoln University teaching honors. He teaches courses such as FSC105, supervises PhD and Masters students, and serves as an external PhD examiner for institutions including the University of Tasmania.