CONTENTS FOREWORD

01 FOREWORD 10 OUR SCIENCE 26 OUR BUSINESS From gene to field... Superior crops, securing Supportive and sustainable, fresh, global, lasting productivity, future foods diverse and growing FROM GENE TO 02 OUR VISION 22 FRESH THINKING 28 ABOUT ROTHAMSTED Excellence and integrity, Lean Science to innovate more Profile, history and collaboration and innovation dynamically and collaboratively current structure FIELD... FRESH, 04 THE CONTEXT 24 ENGAGING WITH US Economic, social and Proactive and creative environmental drivers roots to partnerships GLOBAL, LASTING

Working from gene to field is what Rothamsted Research is all about.

And we’ve been at it for more than big challenges; to understand the 170 years, much longer than any other immediate and future needs of agricultural research institute in the our key clients and beneficiaries; world. Our founders, in 1843, were to assess our strengths and impact; the pioneers of modern , and to review our own science and we are known for our imaginative and culture. science and collaborative influence on The result is a strategic framework fresh thinking and farming practices. for delivering, with our partners Our vision is to build on these in the public and private sectors, positive developments to deliver economically and environmentally ACHIM research and innovation that address resilient farming solutions for the DOBERMANN strategic priorities, nationally and sustainable intensification of arable Director and Chief Executive internationally. and grassland-livestock systems. Rothamsted plays a leading role At its heart, our long-term strategy in meeting the opportunities and recognises the need to bring together challenges facing agriculture around fresh thinking, global science and the world, and towards achieving lasting innovation to secure food the Sustainable Development Goals production, to protect the environment of the United Nations. and to benefit farmers and communities worldwide. In developing our strategy, we aimed to capture the trends and diverse We look forward to being your views on the future; to identify partner in this exciting adventure.

Rothamsted Research Science Strategy 2017—2022 01 OUR VISION • We are committed to the highest quality research • We always seek to improve • We are agile and responsive • We are dedicated to our stakeholders • We inspire and facilitate creativity OUR STORY, • We seize new opportunities OUR VALUES,

WE PURSUE OUR PURPOSE EXCELLENCE

Our core values, and how we define them, ORE VA C L R U E endorse our commitment to productive U S WE EMBRACE WE WORK O and sustainable agriculture. INNOVATION COLLABORATIVELY AND CHANGE Rothamsted is a world-leading research We view science as a continuum, from blue centre with a proud history of ground- skies to green fields, and strategic research breaking discoveries in agricultural as the tool to confront complex problems. science since its founding in 1843. We combine both, supported by unique capabilities and interdisciplinary teams, In terms of its economic contribution, strengthened by partnerships. the cumulative impact of our work in the UK now exceeds £3000 million Such a systems approach is the only WE ACT WITH a year (Rothamsted Research and way to achieve highly productive but INTEGRITY the Value of Excellence. Séan environmentally-benign farming and Rickard, 2015). food innovations.

• We build relationships on PURPOSE STATEMENT trust and respect We bring together fresh thinking • We work for common goals • We are honest, open and ethical and global science for lasting • We harness and acknowledge • We are accountable the contribution of others benefits worldwide. • We base our judgements on principles, relevance, evidence and fact

02 Rothamsted Research Science Strategy 2017—2022 Rothamsted Research Science Strategy 2017—2022 03 THE CONTEXT

“Science and innovation can secure food production, protect the FRESH environment and benefit farmers and communities worldwide” THINKING

Five drivers of change present significant opportunities under our new strategy.

FOOD SECURITY KNOWLEDGE AND BIOECONOMY AND SUSTAINABLE TECHNOLOGY INNOVATIONS DEVELOPMENT INTEGRATION Agriculture could be a source of By 2050, changing diets and a world More integrated, holistic approaches innovations for the wider bioeconomy; population topping 9 billion will drive to crop and livestock farming will like biofuels, new industrial uses for a 60% increase in demand for be required. Leading agricultural crops could add more value to farming. agricultural outputs relative to businesses are already moving in A leaner, more entrepreneurial 2010 (when the population was that direction, looking for innovations culture could innovate faster by under 7 billion). Meeting this at the interface of , tapping research expertise in other demand requires minimal conversion biotechnology, chemistry, , areas, from pharmaceutical drugs of natural ecosystems to farmland. agronomy, engineering and computing. to industrial lubricants.

INTERCONNECTED MORE NUTRITIOUS, GLOBAL RISKS HEALTHIER DIETS Rising income and wealth disparity, Cardiovascular and other non- increasing polarisation of societies, communicable diseases related to intensifying environmental dangers, unhealthy diets, such as obesity and and a society that finds it difficult to type-2 diabetes, are becoming the keep pace with technological change number one health risk worldwide, are among the key risks of a global even in many developing countries. economy doubling in size every At the same time, more consumers are generation. focusing on healthier, natural foods.

04 Rothamsted Research Science Strategy 2017—2022 Rothamsted Research Science Strategy 2017—2022 05 THE CONTEXT EDMONTON, CANADA EUROPE AARHUS, DENMARK ANKARA, TURKEY The Global Farm Platform links We are active in the European Aarhus University is our lead Our local collaborations in our work on grassland-livestock Plant Science Organisation and partner in IWMPRAISE, an Turkey focus on improving research with many global partners, European Technology Platform integrated weed management disease resistance and including the University of Alberta. – Plants for the Future. project, funded under the EU on improving yield and GLOBAL Horizon 2020 programme. nutritional value in . SCIENCE KARNAL, INDIA We lead an Indo-UK Centre for the Improvement of Nitrogen We collaborate with MEXICO CITY Use Efficiency in Wheat (INEW). organisations across the We collaborate with many international TEXAS, USA world in diverse ways, centres, such as the We have installed International Maize and extending the scope of vertical radar to track Wheat Improvement insect migration. our science and achieving Center (CIMMYT). greater impact on global agriculture. BEIJING, CHINA We are involved in CALI, COLOMBIA binational initiatives, We collaborate in partnerships such as the Centre for the with CIAT, the International Sustainable Intensification Center for Tropical Agriculture. of Agriculture (CSIA). NAIROBI, KENYA LOS BAÑOS, We have many long- PHILIPPINES standing partnerships, We have projects funded by such as with the the Global Challenges Research International Centre Fund, such as one on lipids with of Insect Physiology the International Rice Research and Ecology (ICIPE). Institute (IRRI).

SÃO PAULO, BRAZIL ARUSHA, CANBERRA, We collaborate in many ways, including projects MONTEVIDEO, URUGUAY LAGOS, TANZANIA AUSTRALIA jointly funded by the Biotechnology & Biological Our collaboration with the NIGERIA We coordinate the Africa We have long-standing ties with Sciences Research Council (BBSRC), EMBRAPA Instituto Nacional de Investigación We appoint Rothamsted Information Service (AfSIS), the federal research agency, CSIRO, and the São Paulo Research Foundation (FAPESP). Agropecuaria (INIA) is one example International Fellows funded by the Bill & Melinda and several universities, often of our strategic alliances. from all over the world. Gates Foundation. focused on improving cereal yields.

06 Rothamsted Research Science Strategy 2017—2022 Rothamsted Research Science Strategy 2017—2022 07 THE CONTEXT

Agriculture in the UK is at a crossroads. The UK also needs to shape new The food chain, from farm to fork, agricultural policies for the post- INNOVATION NEEDS adds £110 billion to the national Brexit era. FOR BRITISH FARMING LASTING economy each year, but British farming This change is an opportunity risks becoming less competitive in an • Digital, data-driven and for the scientific community to increasingly global agricultural market. engineering technologies engage in policy innovation, to • In recent decades, the technological support the design and testing Advanced crop and livestock BENEFITS efficiency of agriculture has been of evidence-based, forward- genetics and breeding lower in the UK than in comparable looking policies that reflect long- technologies countries. The UK’s productivity is term thinking. • Interactions between air, soil, challenged by increasing biotic threats water and crop/animal processes Alongside government strategies (insects, disease and weeds) to plant within farming systems and through the National Farmers Falling competitiveness, increasing threats, and animal health, by resistance to Union, the UK’s primary producers • Integrated approaches to agrochemicals, by declining soil health, greater demands, fewer resources. and industry have identified management of crop weeds, and by a slow rate of increase in yield. There are solutions. eight priorities for agricultural pests and diseases A problem-oriented, outcome-driven research and innovation over the • Integrated approaches to science approach is needed to next 20 years (see right). These management of animal disease address these challenges. priorities have guided our strategy. within farming systems • Evidence-based management and valuation of ecosystem service provision from farming systems • Skills, training and knowledge exchange • Use of social and economic sciences Feeding the future, four years on. NFU, 2017.

08 Rothamsted Research Science Strategy 2017—2022 Rothamsted Research Science Strategy 2017—2022 09 OUR SCIENCE D CHA N LL A E R N G

G

X E

I S TACKLING S THE GRAND SUPERIOR CROPS FUTURE AGRI-FOOD SYSTEMS CHALLENGES SECURING PRODUCTIVITY

Our vision is defined by the need to improve We have identified six Grand Challenges how food is produced and processed, and for agriculture, which we address 1 through three major Science Portfolios: 5 to increase its nutritional value. Superior Crops, Securing Productivity, and Future Agri-Food Systems. Accelerate improvements 3 in yield, quality and Enable the majority At the heart of our research lies livestock systems in the UK and These portfolios cover our five Institute the efficiency of using of farmers to achieve at the need to feed a growing world worldwide. Strategic Programmes (ISPs) for the next Monitor and forecast least 80% of the attainable population in a more sustainable five years to 2022: Designing Future resources for wheat Building on our unique ability to work the spread of pests, production potential. manner and, in the process, make Wheat; Tailoring Plant Metabolism; and other crops. across different scales and disciplines, weeds and diseases in British farming both more sustainable Smart Crop Protection; Soil to Nutrition; we aim to deliver know-how, data, real time. and successful. and Achieving Sustainable Agricultural better practices and new technologies Systems. The 17 Sustainable Development to improve performance, resilience Goals of the United Nations define and value. Special initiatives, or Flagship Projects, will complement these strategic a long-term vision and strategy that We aim to raise the productivity of programmes, enabling us to focus we support. crop and livestock systems; tackle on exciting opportunities that arise 2 weed, disease and insect resistance 6 The goals seek transformative changes as the work progresses. to agrochemicals; improve soil health; in the way food is produced, processed Discover or design novel 4 enhance natural capital; reduce Our work is supported by strategic Create crop and livestock and consumed. traits that improve the agriculture’s carbon and nutrient funding from the Biotechnology & systems with higher Taking this global view, Rothamsted’s footprint; and add novel nutritional, Biological Sciences Research Council nutritional or industrial Combine genetic, chemical, performance and science will focus on the sustainable health and bioeconomical value to (BBSRC) and by grants from many value of plants. ecological and agronomic nutrient value but lower intensification of arable and grazing- crops and other products. other sources, including industry. strategies for smart crop environmental impact. protection.

10 Rothamsted Research Science Strategy 2017—2022 Rothamsted Research Science Strategy 2017—2022 11 OUR SCIENCE i

DESIGNING FUTURE WHEAT DFW integrates wheat research from across the UK into one force that maps directly onto international priorities agreed in the G20 Strategic SUPERIOR Research Agenda of 2015. The collaboration includes the , Rothamsted Research, the Earlham Institute, the National Institute of Agricultural , the Quadram Institute, the University of Bristol, the University of Nottingham and the European Bioinformatics Institute. The priorities cover five main areas: yield potential; nutrient use efficiency; quality and safety of wheat; CROPS disease and pest control; and wheat information systems and exploitation of genetic resources.

ii This portfolio links two Institute Strategic Programmes to explore ways of growing TAILORING PLANT METABOLISM valuable crops efficiently. TPM will exploit the ability of plants to produce a diversity of high-value We apply an inter-disciplinary approach resistance to diseases and insect pests, products. With our knowledge from to understand and improve genetic climate change adaptation, and more basic research on metabolic pathways, traits and to tailor their interactions nutritious grain. we aim to control these natural with the environment and their reactions in a predictable way. management. Agriculture can become a great source of innovations for expanding the wider We focus on two groups of high-value Our aim is to develop novel germplasm, bioeconomy. Plants not only supply products: (1) lipids in oilseed crops, characterised for the next generation us with food, fuel and fibre; they also such as Camelina sativa, that yield of key traits. And we provide that serve as a rich source of valuable oils for human and animal health and germplasm in a readily accessible chemicals, including drugs, dyes, nutrition, and waxes for industrial form to the wider plant science feedstocks for industry, and flavouring uses, such as lubricants and cosmetics; and breeding communities. and fragrance ingredients. We aim to and (2) phenolic glycosides, produced In cereal crops, such as wheat or rice, deliver such novel traits in bespoke by willow (Salix), that can be used as we focus our efforts on traits related to crops, and so advance the bioeconomy starting materials to make many useful yield, efficiency in the use of nutrients, in the UK and abroad. chemicals, including drugs.

12 Rothamsted Research Science Strategy 2017—2022 Rothamsted Research Science Strategy 2017—2022 13 OUR SCIENCE SECURING PRODUCTIVITY

This portfolio focuses on one Institute Strategic Programme to protect and iii improve the health of plants and animals. SMART CROP PROTECTION SCP integrates chemical, genetic, We apply a common “gene to Globally, 30% of crop yield is lost to threaten this approach: growing natural to deliver a new vision for managing biological, ecological, mathematical landscape approach” in our research insect pests, plant pathogens and resistance to chemicals; regulations crop health. and agronomic approaches to deliver on resistance to insecticides, fungicides weeds. Improving the efficiency and that limit access to and development Our goal is to limit the incidence, more targeted, “evolution-smart” and . We make advances sustainability of crop protection is of new products; and environmental distribution, dispersal, evolution control strategies. We work on in fundamental science relating one of the most accessible ways to and human health concerns. and impact of these biotic threats. real-time monitoring and forecasting to plant-pest interactions, to the intensify agriculture sustainably. Working with colleagues associated We also aim to maximise the techniques for insect and plant evolution of pests, weeds and diseases, Currently, crop protection relies with our future wheat and sustainable efficacy and sustainability of control diseases, aiming always to be one and to pest population dynamics. This heavily on pesticides but three factors intensification programmes, we aim interventions. step ahead of evolution. work will lead to novel interventions.

14 Rothamsted Research Science Strategy 2017—2022 Rothamsted Research Science Strategy 2017—2022 15 OUR SCIENCE

iv

ACHIEVING SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURAL SYSTEMS ASSIST questions how productivity biodiversity in supporting production gains in agriculture have often and whether these “ecosystem services” been accompanied by unintended to agriculture can be improved. consequences for the environment. FUTURE At the heart of ASSIST lies a network Funded by the Natural Environment of farms located across contrasting Research Council and BBSRC, and cropping systems, landscapes and combining expertise from Rothamsted soil types in the UK, including arable Research, the Centre for Ecology and and grassland-livestock farms. The Hydrology and the British Geological programme will combine the best Survey, the programme has twin agronomic and ecological knowledge AGRI-FOOD aims: to discover if food production to test practical options for reducing can be increased while minimising the environmental footprint of agriculture's environmental footprint; agriculture while also closing the and to gauge the importance of gaps in yield.

SYSTEMS

v This portfolio links two Institute Strategic Programmes to close gaps in the productivity SOIL TO NUTRITION and efficiency of crops and livestock. S2N aims to transfer nutrients more how to achieve our aims is a efficiently from soil to crops and multidisciplinary operation across We are focused on increasing underlie sustainable systems. We apply Our aim is to enable a much livestock, and so yield higher value many scales, from micro-cellular productivity, using resources more fresh thinking and methods to address more precise management food from arable and grazing land, to macro-commercial. efficiently, improving soil health and fundamental questions, such as of arable and livestock farms. rather than lose them as pollutants in S2N will identify the metrics necessary structure, enhancing biodiversity, what makes a healthy soil and what waterways or as noxious emissions. We pursue “big data” approaches to dictate interventions for sustainable reducing carbon footprints, and causes gaps in yield and efficiency. to look at agricultural systems in a Farming systems constitute inherently intensification. Alternative scenarios raising the nutritional quality of We hope to manipulate the holistic manner. We combine theory complex interactions between a for management across scales, from crop and livestock produce. underlying mechanisms in an informed with experimentation in the field large number of interconnected rhizosphere to landscape, will be We hope to gain a much deeper way to optimise processes at field, and at landscape levels to test physical, biological and chemical tested for delivering sustainable understanding of soil processes that whole-farm and landscape scales. novel strategies in the real world. processes, and so working out crops and livestock.

16 Rothamsted Research Science Strategy 2017—2022 Rothamsted Research Science Strategy 2017—2022 17 OUR SCIENCE

Omega-3 fish oils or, more precisely, The challenge now is to move from omega-3 long chain polyunsaturated a research phase to a product LOOKING FOR FIXES fatty acids are crucial nutrients for development and commercialisation ACROSS DISCIPLINES FROM FISH OILS TO humans and animals. In humans, mode. The shift includes the need they reduce the risk of cardiovascular to obtain regulatory approval to Our Integrated Solutions Laboratory, disease and other metabolic diseases, allow the wide-scale cultivation another Flagship Project, aims such as obesity and type-2 diabetes. of the genetically engineered to find answers to agricultural SMART ANSWERS But the wild fish stocks that provide Camelina that can accumulate problems by working across our them are at the maximum levels of omega-3 fish oils. strategic programmes rather than managed sustainability. by trying to isolate a problem and Such developments also require dealing with it separately. Over the past 20 years, Rothamsted engagement with the entire Solutions based on single-target researchers have been tackling this agricultural production chain, bulk near right interventions are, at best, a small Growing fish oils in fields ( ) and challenge. end-users,such as the aquafeed subset of all possible solutions companies that supply fish farms, exploring integrated solutions (far right) They have isolated the genes in to the challenges facing the food and consumers. are two special initiatives, or Flagship marine micro-organisms responsible system; at worst, they create Projects, at different stages of development. for biosynthesis of omega-3s; This Flagship Project aims to achieve new problems. ISL aims to enable identified a suitable plant host, these key steps within the next five scientists, businesses and policy- Camelina sativa (shown), which is years. makers to find multi-target and one of Europe’s oldest oil seed crops synergistic interventions that take and grown as biomass fuel in North Our vision is that, in the long term, into account the key interactions America; and produced genetically the bulk volume of 1 million tonnes in the production system and modified crops in experimental field of fish oils that are harvested food chain. trials. These studies have confirmed from the world’s oceans can be As a result, the interventions could the promise and utility of this new supplemented by production of provide a wider set of control terrestrial source of omega-3 fish oils. GM crops on land. options, more resilient solutions, and a reduction in unintended consequences.

18 Rothamsted Research Science Strategy 2017—2022 Rothamsted Research Science Strategy 2017—2022 19 OUR SCIENCE

EP NATIONAL LINKED R D AR U T O M F E

N

R

T

U S CAPABILITIES DISCIPLINES O

We host three unique experimental facilities, supported From PhD students to world-leading experts, our by BBSRC and open to scientists everywhere. scientists are the lifeblood of the organisation.

PLANT SCIENCES 1

BIOINTERACTIONS AND 2 CROP PROTECTION

LONG-TERM ROTHAMSTED NORTH WYKE EXPERIMENTS INSECT SURVEY FARM PLATFORM The LTEs are recognised as a world- The RIS has run two trap networks in The NWFP uses three 21-hectare SUSTAINABLE class capability. They are used to test the UK since 1964. It now holds the farmlets, each under different 3 AGRICULTURE SCIENCES hypotheses and to conduct long- world’s most comprehensive data management scenarios, to study term research on crops and land on insects, for scientists, growers, grazing livestock and their associated management. Some date from the conservation organisations, individuals food chains. The aim is to develop 19th century. They include newer trials and policy-makers. The RIS issues more nutritious food more sustainably. that focus on the value of different alerts of imminent insect threats; Data generated are freely available organic manures and crop rotations; it provides medium and long- online via an open-access portal. COMPUTATIONAL AND 4 the Sample Archive (with more than term forecasts; and it offers data We will further exploit the NWFP’s ANALYTICAL SCIENCES 300,000 varieties of grain, soil and so for academic study and theory potential through our association on); the electronic Rothamsted Archive development. We are broadening with the Centre for Innovation (e-RA); and two UK Environmental its remit to include the detection Excellence in Livestock (CIEL), and its Change Network sites. We are of genotypic changes in insects, academic and industrial partners, also investigating key scenarios so we can provide earlier warnings and from wider research collaboration for sustainable intensification. of biotypes harmful to agriculture. with universities and other partners.

20 Rothamsted Research Science Strategy 2017—2022 Rothamsted Research Science Strategy 2017—2022 21 FRESH THINKING

Our new Agricultural Research and Innovation Accelerator (AgRIA) is one such venture. This fast-start:fast-stop LEAN vehicle comes in three basic models: short leap projects of 6–18 months; early entrepreneur projects of 1– 4 years; and longer “leaps-of-faith” SCIENCE projects of up to five years. AgRIA projects will cluster as themes; a soils innovation theme is among the first to be launched in 2017. Another new venture is FarmInn. Closer ties between researchers This initiative will enable farmers and stakeholders will refine and to test their new ideas rigorously on-farm with Rothamsted’s leading improve performances for both. experts, using the best scientific approaches, without the risks We are departing from traditional associated with innovative practices. practice to pursue research of greater and more immediate relevance. We will share our ideas with our stakeholders early in our thinking, and the anticipated outputs as well, and continually engage them as the research develops. We call it “Lean Science”. This fresh thinking will encourage a more dynamic and responsive approach that is aligned with the needs of users, even pivoting to other ideas when changes of direction are called for. Lean Science will be mutually beneficial: our research will benefit from stakeholder feedback, and stakeholders will benefit from the increased value and usefulness of our research. We are embedding these principles in our research culture through initiatives that include internal innovation fellowships, “hackathons” and new collaborative ventures for the co- development of innovations with our academic and industrial partners.

22 Rothamsted Research Science Strategy 2017—2022 Rothamsted Research Science Strategy 2017—2022 23 ENGAGING WITH US PARTNERSHIPS COME FIRST, AND LAST

We are a proactive and creative hub for together industry and academia to help agriculture that will become even more farmers to deal with crop threats; and the Centre for Innovation Excellence internationally vibrant. in Livestock nurtures sustainable production. Our Rothamsted Centre Partnership. Innovation. Public for Research and Enterprise provides engagement. Knowledge exchange. conferencing, incubation and open Business development. They are all innovation facilities. woven into our new science strategy. We will expand our international We will work with public and private activities, and focus on research of sector partners in a strategic manner relevance for low- and middle-income to turn excellent research into valuable regions. We expect to have a greater products with sustainable impacts. impact and to tap into expertise There will be a common agenda, worldwide. Rothamsted International mutually beneficial cooperation, will be our primary vehicle. Key flexible and open innovation, and alliances will be forged on the basis of effective communication. We are complementary scientific excellence, strengthening these developments strategic relevance, potential for impact through new strategic alliances ANGELA KARP and opportunities for funding and with research institutes, universities Director for Science Innovation, co-investment. and businesses, and through new Engagement & Partnerships Rothamsted will continue to inform initiatives, such as AgRIA and policy-makers as an independent FarmInn (see p23). “We expect greater provider of robust evidence that is Rothamsted collaborates with many impact and to founded on the best available scientific different industries and is also a tap into expertise knowledge. We will engage with groups founding member of three innovation voicing concerns. We will communicate centres in the UK: Agrimetrics is the worldwide” accurately, through Open Days and world’s first big data centre; the centre through our participation in inquiries, for Crop Health & Protection brings consultations and debates.

24 Rothamsted Research Science Strategy 2017—2022 Rothamsted Research Science Strategy 2017—2022 25 OUR BUSINESS

Our focus is on creating an excellent Core to our success is having the right work environment for everyone and people doing the right work in the right on maintaining the institute’s financial way. And we will be having more of that: BUILDING sustainability. Stable and diversified • More talented scientists; funding sources, cost-efficient operations, better use of resources • International fellowships; and assets, and recovering costs for • Leadership development; A BETTER internal and external services are • Advancing women’s careers; all part of our plan. • Employee forum; Enhancing the efficiency of an • Career progression; organisation and its operations • More PhD students; INSTITUTE requires clear, precise policies with procedures that reflect best practice. • Sports and social clubs. DONNA LIPSKY Not only are we focusing on having Automation, new tools, process Director of Operations the best institute for today, we are improvements and software will also investing in our future. New all help us to do more with less. “Efficient project We want the right people doing student accommodation is among the right work in the right way. Our continuing leadership in developments as we continue to management, depends on enhance our campus, to improve working well together efficient project management, our delivery of science and to make on working well together and on strategic investments in our research, and coordination” coordinating work at all our sites. innovation and partnerships.

26 Rothamsted Research Science Strategy 2017—2022 Rothamsted Research Science Strategy 2017—2022 27 ABOUT ROTHAMSTED NORTH WYKE About 350 hectares of our farmland are in Devon where three experimental farms, just 21ha apiece, are AGRICULTURE AND known as the North Wyke Farm Platform. SCIENCE SINCE 1843

Rothamsted is a vibrant hub for global science, backed by history and forward-thinking.

More than 500 people, representing Funding comes from the Biotechnology Our scientists publish 250 to 300 over 35 nationalities, work for & Biological Sciences Research Council research papers each year and make Rothamsted across four campuses, (BBSRC), the Lawes Agricultural Trust data, software and other information in multi-disciplinary facilities and (LAT), and a wide range of other widely available. We protect key on experimental farmland. Our national and international sponsors, intellectual property and commercialise collaborations stretch over 50 countries. including industry. it in partnership with industry.

Brief History They planted the now renown classical Long-Term Rothamsted Rothamsted Board Rothamsted was founded in 1843 when John Experiment on Broadbalk field; the experiment Executive Team John Beddington Bennet Lawes, the owner of the Rothamsted continues today. They also secured, through the Achim Dobermann (Chair) Estate and a chemical fertiliser pioneer, trust, the future of “agricultural investigations” Director and Richard Bardgett appointed , a chemist, at Rothamsted Experimental Station. In 2003, Chief Executive as his scientific collaborator. RES became Rothamsted Research. David Baulcombe Angela Karp Russell Brooks Director for Oliver Doubleday Our headquarters mix Science Innovation, Current Structure agricultural science. LAT provides land, facilities Engagement & Charles Godfray modern and heritage Since 2011, Rothamsted Research has been and funding; BBSRC, part of UK Research and Partnerships Stuart Jarvis architecture, cutting-edge an independent charitable company, limited Innovation, funds the institute’s research Alastair Leake by guarantee and governed by a board of programmes and core capabilities. Donna Lipsky laboratories and, with non-executive trustee directors. The Chief Director of Operations Paul Leonard our sites at Woburn and Rothamsted, LAT and BBSRC are also the Executive of Rothamsted is the institute’s Sally Smith Brooms Barn, nearly 500ha Director, who reports to the board. shareholders of the Rothamsted Centre for Michael Winter Research and Enterprise (RoCRE), an incubation of experimental farmland. Rothamsted, LAT and BBSRC are an enduring space for new businesses from inside and partnership with a common interest in advancing outside the institute. LAT Board RoCRE Board Graham Birch (Chair) Zahir Sachak (Chair) Tina Barsby Chris Dunkley David Baulcombe Stephen James Ewen Cameron Donna Lipsky Gordon Conway Donald Curry Charles Godfray Peter Kendall

28 Rothamsted Research Science Strategy 2017—2022 www.rothamsted.ac.uk

Email [email protected]

Post Rothamsted Research Harpenden

Hertfordshire AL5 2JQ vincentdesign.co.uk United Kingdom

Phone

+44 (0)1582 763 133 design Report