SAC (Scottish Agricultural College) is to forge links with AgResearch, New Zealand‘s largest Crown Research Institute by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).

AgResearch’s Ruakura
Research Centre

The signing, which will take place at AgResearch’s Ruakura Research Centre on New Zealand’s North Island, signifies the desire of both organisations to work closer together on a wide variety of issues including animal genomics, reproductive biology, animal health, climate change, land use and environment, dairy science and GM science strategies. The MOU will not only open up the opportunity of collaborative research and development between SAC and AgResearch, but will also encourage joint organisation of seminars, conferences and staff exchanges.

SAC Chief Executive and Principal, Professor Bill McKelvey who is in New Zealand for the signing said, “SAC welcomes this opportunity to work with New Zealand’s foremost research institute. SAC is working hard to find solutions for a number of issues affecting agriculture and the land based industries in Scotland. Signing this Memorandum of Understanding will enable SAC and AgResearch to work closely together on research and development, seminars, conferences, and commercialising the outcomes of research. This will open up a world of new opportunities for both organisations.”

AgResearch Chief Executive, Dr Andrew West commented, “It is important that AgResearch collaborates not only with R&D providers in New Zealand but also has a view to collaboration with the international research community. By doing this we can encourage and provide the best solutions for New Zealand’s pastoral sector. Both organisations are recognised leaders in pastoral sector Research & Development and each has its distinct strengths. I believe that the synergies created as a result of working together will benefit farmers in Scotland and New Zealand.”

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