DARD Research

DARD recognises the importance of research in helping us achieve our strategic goals and objectives. We have a long history of funding and carrying out research within the areas of agriculture, fisheries, forestry and food.  Much of our sponsored research has been translated into practical applications on farm, food processing and other rural businesses.  We have also invested substantially in research to help shape government policy on agri-food issues which has helped develop this important sector.

Following the launch of Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute (AFBI) in 2006, our role changed from that of research provider to customer.  The practical implications of this change are creation of a strategic framework to direct our future investment in research (DARD Evidence and Innovation Strategy 2009-2013); launch of a scheme to promote industry-led innovation identified in the Strategy (the Research Challenge Fund); increased transparency and stakeholder engagement in setting the DARD research agenda (Stakeholder Forum) and the development and issue of an invitation to AFBI to submit research proposals to meet our needs (Research Call 2010).

Further information on all of these areas can be found at the links below.