Barry Pogson’s research has revealed crucial pathways by which communication between different parts of a cell influence growth, development, photosynthesis and tolerance to drought. He achieved these understandings by dissecting genetic and metabolic networks that regulate how the site of photosynthesis, the chloroplast, communicates the impacts of changing environmental conditions. His research has enabled new insights into the evolution and function of retrograde signalling networks in gene expression, photosynthesis, leaf development and even water loss during droughts. Pogson has actively sought the translation of basic research into beneficial outcomes and mentors the next generation of leaders in science, policy and industry.