In 2015, for modelling photosynthesis, the world’s most important biological reaction, Graham Farquhar won the Prime Minister’s Prize for Science.

Graham’s work transformed our understanding of the world’s most important biological reaction: photosynthesis. His models of plant biophysics have been used to understand cells, whole plants, whole forests, and to create new water-efficient wheat varieties. His latest project will determine which trees will grow faster in a high carbon dioxide world.

His work has also revealed a global climate mystery. Evaporation rates and wind speeds are slowing around the world, contrary to the predictions of most climate models. Life under climate change may be wetter than we expected.

Graham is Distinguished Professor of the ANU Research School of Biology and Chief Investigator of the Australian Research Council’s Centre of Excellence for Translational Photosynthesis. 

• Research School of Biology scientist wins Prime Minister's Prize for Science
• Australian Government science website article
• Farquhar GS, von Caemmerer S, Berry J. 1980 A biochemical model of photosynthesis CO₂ assimilation in leaves of C₃ species, Planta 149:78.

This article is one of a set featuring the achievements and memorable occasions in the History of Biology at ANU.