Our research centres bring together dedicated staff and facilities, academics from across disciplines, students and industry.
Based around some of the biggest challenges that agriculture faces today, the work they produce is shaping professional practice, government policy and the application of new technologies.
As well as research centres, we're home to a number of academic networks and industry partnerships that provide a mix of training, events, resources and research.
The Crop and Environment Research Centre is the beating heart of Harper's research. As a self-sufficient, independent trials company, it conducts field trials for government bodies, farmer-funded bodies and private clients. Its facilities are also home to many of Harper's commercial and teaching crop trials for research. Learn More ➔
As the demands on farmers increase, The National Centre for Precision Farming is evaluating and promoting the technologies that provide solutions. As well as providing a place for the industry to discuss new developments, it's a proving ground for innovations that make farming more efficient and productive. Learn More ➔
Protecting our crops from pests and disease, while reducing the environmental impact of pesticides, represents a real challenge for farmers, both in the UK and developing countries. The Centre for Integrated Pest Management works to find solutions and promote best practice for crop protection across the world. Learn More ➔
While water is the world's most precious resource, soil is equally important in farming. The Soil and Water Management Centre exists to help UK farming make the most of its two most important assets through training, workshops, demonstrations and advice. Learn More ➔
As governments, organisations and industries take on the world's challenges, they need the right research to inform their next steps. The Centre for Evidence-Based Agriculture works closely with decision-makers to show them how to make the most of existing research through evidence synthesis. Learn More ➔
A changing environment and a growing population aren't the only problems facing agriculture. Crime, conflict, food chain fraud, and modern slavery are all issues in the industry. The Rural Security Research Group takes on these threats, conducting research, providing training and advising on policy. Learn More ➔
Linking economics and science to analyse the role of innovative agricultural technologies in achieving global economic, environmental and social objectives. Learn More ➔
The UN's goal to reduce per capita food waste by 2030 will challenge and change the entire food supply chain. The Fresh Produce Research Centre is exploring the impact that crop breeding, crop production, post-harvest physiology and food safety all have on this. Learn More ➔
There is increasing global interest in growing fresh produce in urban areas to minimise pollution, greenhouse gas emissions and energy cost from transport. Learn More ➔
Drought is a major limitation on crop production and food security in many countries. The Drought Mitigation Group at Harper Adams University is researching and developing different methods for reducing drought damage to crop yield. Learn More ➔
Agricultural Centre for Sustainable Energy Systems
The pressing need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions is driving the development of low or zero carbon emission energy systems. Learn More ➔
Animal Production Science Centre
Harper Adams University conducts both strategic and applied research on improving the efficiency of production of farmed animals, with a particular focus on nutrition. Learn More ➔
Centre for Land and Rural Business
The Centre for Land and Rural Business supports all sectors operating from rural-based locations, from agricultural and farm-based businesses to leisure, tourism and event management. The centre contributes to the continued commercial success of rural-based businesses and policy formation on land management and rural affairs. Learn More ➔