Introduction

Rothamsted is the largest agricultural research centre in the United Kingdom and almost certainly the oldest agricultural research station in the world. Over its 160 year history, the institute has built an international reputation as a centre of excellence in fundamental and applied plant sciences and soil research. Our internationally acclaimed work includes the discovery of synthetic pyrethroids which, forty years from their invention, remain the most important group of chemicals for controlling agricultural pests.

Biochar Conference

We now live in a world with an increasing threat of food, energy and water security and climate change. It is predicted that world food production will need to be increased by 40% by 2030 and such improvements will need to be delivered on less land, using less water, pesticides and fertilisers. Our mission to perform ‘world-class research to deliver knowledge, innovation and new practices to increase crop productivity and quality, and to develop environmentally sustainable solutions for agriculture’, is more relevant than ever.

Our researchers collaborate with a range of governmental organisations, research institutes and companies to develop solutions to meet the needs of industry and society. We engage with industry on a number of different ways, including through: collaborative R&D projects, consultancy work, technology licensing, business incubation and training. This website give an overview of the scope of our impact when working with industry.

With relationships in over 40 countries, Rothamsted Research is a hub of significant international activity. In 2009 the institute was selected to host Embrapa-LabEx in the UK and we are now working with this Brazilian organisation to foster UK-BR collaboration in research and technology development. We have found that this diverse, international mix produces a stimulating research and business environment and are expanding our strategic links to other regions and organisations.

The Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council is our main funder. Our projects are also funded by the Natural Environment Research Council, Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council and Medical Research Council. We have also been involved in a number of projects funded by Defra, HGCA, Horticultural Development Council, Technology Strategy Board, the European Community and USA Department of Agriculture, as well as not-for-profit organisations such as the Esmee Fairburn Foundation, Perry Foundation, Lawes Agricultural Trust and Royal Society.