Research areas
Bringing together academic, industry, and policy experts in collaborative research work that addresses some of the world's most significant challenges.
At SRUC, we bring together academic, industry, and policy experts in collaborative research work that addresses some of the world's most significant challenges.
Animal behaviour & welfare
Working to understand and interpret the behaviour of managed animals and the impact on animal welfare.
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Plant sciences
Working towards achieving global food security by developing resilient crop and grassland systems.
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Data science & AI
Creating stronger and more resilient systems across food, farming, and rural economies by harnessing and applying innovations in AI, precision technologies, and big-data.
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Disease, epidemiology, and pathobiology
Providing a detailed understanding of the biology driving disease persistence, prevalence, and spread in companion, livestock, and production animals, plants, and crops.
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Food systems
Generating knowledge and influencing policy for safer, more sustainable, and more productive agriculture that supports healthier diets and economic growth.
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Genetics & genomics
Implementing, analysing, and improving cross-discipline genetic variation studies to benefit local and global food chains and production systems.
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Rural & natural economy
Working to ensuring innovative and sustainable behaviour change and policy that promotes resilience of rural economies and communities.
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Soils & environment
Leading the development of new approaches to measuring and mitigating greenhouse gases from agriculture in Scotland and beyond.
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Global impact
In September 2015, 193 countries agreed to adopt a set of global goals to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure prosperity for all. Use the links below to explore how our researchers and their work are contributing towards achieving it.
Global impact
Research in SRUC news:
All research news
Royal honour for Scotland’s Rural College
Work on improving animal health and welfare through excellence in veterinary services has led to SRUC being awarded a Queen’s Anniversary Prize for Higher and Further Education.
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SRUC partners in UK research to cut dairy methane emissions
SRUC is playing a leading research role in a new UK-wide project aiming to significantly cut greenhouse gas emissions from dairy farming while reducing reliance on imported soya bean meal.
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Care challenges in rural and island regions threaten long-term economic sustainability
Rural and island communities across Scotland face growing challenges in delivering both elderly care and childcare, as rapidly ageing populations, workforce shortages and rising costs place increasing strain on local services and economies, according to a new report.
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Call for farmers to help shape Scotland’s future agricultural policy
Scotland’s farmers are being asked to take part in annual data gathering that will help shape policy and strengthen the future of the nation’s agricultural sector. Every year, the Scottish Farm
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SRUC Study highlights urgent need to tackle rural and Island depopulation
A new SRUC report reveals that rural and island communities across Scotland continue to face significant demographic challenges.
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Study finds male rats prefer rougher play than female rats
A new SRUC study published in F1000Research has revealed that juvenile male and female rats respond differently to tickling, with males showing a preference for rougher play.
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Research facilities
Our world-class research facilities serve our specialist areas of expertise.
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Research impact
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Research Fellowships
Research fellowships offer a powerful route to develop research independence, shape a distinctive academic profile and deliver work with lasting impact. SRUC supports researchers at all career stages to navigate the fellowship landscape and develop competitive, well prepared applications. If you are considering the next step in your research career, guidance and support are available throughout the process.
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Postgraduate research opportunities
SRUC is a unique institution founded on world-class research. We offer excellent opportunities for research leading to a higher degree.
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Research operations & culture
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Contact our Research Team
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Explore more across SRUC
SAC Consulting
Providing independent, research-driven, industry-leading expertise, advice and solutions for agricultural, food and land-based businesses.
SAC Consulting
About SRUC
Building on our traditions in tertiary education, research excellence and industry expertise to deliver sustained impact and innovation in the natural economy.
About SRUC
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