Aberystwyth University Joins New UK Research Alliance to Drive Innovation

An institute at Aberystwyth University has been named as a founding member of the newly established National Research Organisations Group (NRO), a coalition of 35 leading research agencies and institutes across the United Kingdom. The Institute of Biological, Environmental and Rural Sciences (IBERS), located in Gogerddan, is the only representative from Wales in this significant alliance.

The NRO aims to advance science in ways that benefit individuals, communities, the economy, and national priorities. By acting as a trusted partner for government, academia, and industry, the group intends to provide an authoritative perspective on science, policy, and research investment. Its efforts will focus on addressing pressing national priorities, including economic growth, security, and environmental sustainability, as the UK works towards meeting its net zero goals.

Support for Food Security and Innovation

Professor Iain Donnison, Head of IBERS, expressed strong support for the formation of the NRO, stating, “We warmly welcome the launch of the National Research Organisations Group and are delighted that IBERS is one of the founding members.” He emphasized the institute’s expertise in grassland and plant breeding science, noting its critical role in enhancing national food security. “As a national capability, we are well placed to support national food security as well as contributing to UK priorities for advancing scientific discovery to accelerate innovation and support clean economic growth,” he added.

The formation of the NRO aligns with the UK government’s broader strategy to foster research and development as a means to strengthen the nation. UK Government Science Minister Lord Vallance commented, “Research and Development is essential to building a better Britain.” He highlighted the importance of scientific advancements in areas such as cancer treatment, clean energy, and computing technology. Lord Vallance noted that collaboration among research institutes and public research bodies is crucial at this time, stating, “By aligning their capabilities to deliver maximum impact, the NRO Group will be a key part of our efforts to ensure that science and technology benefits everyone.”

Building a Collaborative Future

As the UK continues to navigate challenges related to economic growth and environmental sustainability, the establishment of the NRO represents a significant step towards enhancing collaborative efforts in research. The group will focus on integrating diverse scientific expertise to inform policy decisions and drive innovations that align with national interests.

The initiative underscores the UK’s commitment to leveraging its research capabilities to address societal needs and propel the nation forward. With IBERS playing a pivotal role in this new alliance, the future of scientific research in the UK is poised for a transformative phase that prioritizes both innovation and public benefit.