Andrew Neal’s research is focused on understanding the integrated behaviour of plant-microbe-soil systems, with the objective of developing a theory of soil as an extended composite phenotype. His research places organic carbon at the heart of soil, noting that “despite carbon’s critical role, the mechanisms underlying carbon dynamics and the link to soil water and nutrient availability are poorly understood.” “The concept of soil is still a source of contention, with society struggling to grasp its complexity and the effective management of such a multifaceted system. Modern techniques, such as shotgun metagenomics and X-ray computed tomography, are being employed in conjunction with the extended phenotype concept developed by Dawkins, the emerging processual view of biology and critical systems theory. This is enabling a radical shift in the way soil is perceived.” Neal is a regular public speaker and his work has been featured on BBC Radio 4’s Inside Science, at New Scientist Live events and podcasts, as well as at the Parliamentary ERFA committee. He maintains an international portfolio of research, collaborating with colleagues in Australia, China, India and Uruguay.