Research
Our research programmes cover a wide variety of agri-environmental issues. Our environmental research ranges from fundamental studies of environmental and ecosystem processes (principally microbiology, soil science and geochemistry) to applied work related to soil, air and water pollution and remediation. Within our agricultural research the general strategy is to improve agricultural production systems, enhance agricultural sustainability and efficiency, while protecting the environment.
At the most recent Research Assessment Exercise (RAE, December 2008) the School of Biosciences was ranked in the top position in the UK for ‘Agriculture, Veterinary and Food Science’ as assessed by independent analysis conducted by Research Fortnight. 95% of research activities (that include research environment and esteem) are recognised on the international stage and 60% are described as world-leading/internationally excellent. Research collaboration includes the Centre for Ecology and Hydrology, The British Geological Survey, Scottish Agricultural College plus UK and international universities. Research funding ranges from Research Councils (e.g. BBSRC, NERC), EU and DEFRA.
The research within the Division is organised within seven broad themes (please click on individual theme for more detailed information):
In addition, the Division undertakes a wide variety of work that utilises our new X-ray Tomography Facility.
The Division of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences has many PhD students researching in a wide variety of areas. Whilst most carry out all their work in within the University, many are associated with other research institutes or companies and spend some research time elsewhere including STRI (Panama), Rothamsted Research and the British Geological Survey. Many of our PhD students are from overseas and greatly value the experience they have in studying for a PhD in the Division . Information about our research degrees can be found here.
