Agrifood research investment options to be explored

A project exploring how to enhance the University's position at the forefront of research related to agriculture and food has been launched.

The Agrifood Scoping Project will engage with colleagues from across the University and external experts as part of an exploration of opportunities for investment in Agrifood research, including analysing competitors and developments in the sector.

The aim is to better understand opportunities and develop an integrated strategy and investment plan for agriculture, food and related disciplines.

The Project has come about because of the unique source of investment that is available to the University as the sole Trustee and beneficiary of the National Institute for Research in Dairying (NIRD) Trust.

The NIRD Trust is currently making returns to the University of up to £2m per year to support research into agriculture and food. These returns are projected to rise to £7-10m per year in the next 5 years and, along with any future potential development of NIRD Trust land, would enable a significant step-change in investment.

Decision-making outside of the University means that the likelihood and timing of NIRD Trust land development remains uncertain. Nevertheless, the Scoping Project will develop proposals for potential investment for all possible scenarios.

A Project Team has been established for 18 months to undertake the work. Dr Kate Hough has re-joined the University as a Strategic Project Lead, with Dr Kirsty Withers and Sam Williams seconded as Strategic Project Managers from roles in Research Services and Planning & Strategy.

The Project is overseen by Professor Parveen Yaqoob as UEB Sponsor, supported by a Steering Group. In addition, an external Advisory Panel of industry, research and policy experts has been appointed to provide advice, challenge and guidance from an external perspective.

This is an exciting opportunity for colleagues to have a say in shaping and influencing our agrifood research, helping to underpin sustainable agrifood systems worldwide that are healthy for people and the planet.

For any enquires, or to contact the project team, please email agrifoodscoping@reading.ac.uk