Harpenden, United Kingdom
29 April 2025
Rothamsted Research, the world-renowned agricultural research institute with a history of over 180 years of pioneering work, has launched a five-year transformation plan to ensure its long-term sustainability and enhance the translational impact of its science. This strategic shift will refocus research on key agricultural priorities for the coming decade and beyond, while streamlining operations to achieve greater efficiency.
Like many higher education and research institutions, Rothamsted Research has faced increasing financial pressures. This transformation aims to identify significant cost savings while retaining core scientific expertise and building a more resilient organisation for the future. This necessary transformation will involve a reduction in the workforce by approximately 25% (around 90 posts) as Rothamsted Research adapts to its future needs.
The five-year transformation plan will focus on:
- Refocusing science on translational impact, ensuring research delivers real-world benefits
- Achieving significant cost savings and greater efficiency through restructuring
- Fostering greater integration of science and innovation
- Remodelling science into fewer, more impactful research programmes
Sir Peter Kendall, Chair of the Rothamsted Research Board of Trustees, said: "This refocusing will allow Rothamsted to continue exploiting its key strengths. Its ability to link fundamental science with real world agricultural expertise will be critical in creating resilience in a changing climate, delivering sustainable food production and protecting the environment."
Professor Anne Ferguson-Smith, Executive Chair of the UKRI Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC), said: "BBSRC supports eight UK bioscience institutes, including Rothamsted Research, through strategic investments in resource, expertise and research infrastructure. Vital in addressing major scientific and societal challenges, our investments are also crucial to the success of UK bioscience. We are actively supporting Rothamsted Research to address current challenges through their robust programme of transformation for the benefit of staff, stakeholders, farmers and society worldwide."
Tom Bradshaw, President of the National Farmers' Union of England and Wales, said: "To drive productivity and growth we need world leading research and development to help lead the way. With the challenges of climate change and a growing world population the importance of developing the technologies of tomorrow cannot be overlooked."
Graham Birch, Chair of the Lawes Agricultural Trust, said: "Ensuring the long-term sustainability of agricultural research is paramount. This strategic refocus by Rothamsted Research will help to enhance its impact while delivering crucial advancements for the benefit of agriculture and society."
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