OFC/RASE Science Award

Applications are now being taken for the Oxford Farming Conference (OFC) and Royal Agricultural Society of England (RASE) 'Practice with Science' Award sponsored by AB Agri. The £10,000 Award will recognise applied scientific work that has resulted in valuable benefits to the agricultural industry, particularly in relation to on-farm practices.

"We are targeting the researchers and the developers who do not normally get the credit for their work and innovations," explains OFC Chairman Cedric Porter. "The research the OFC conducted in 2010 identified a big gap between the science-driven innovation farmers needed on the ground and the work being done in research institutions which was described as leading edge science."

Mr Porter added: "Further investigation into Britain's R&D focus highlighted that the drivers for scientist's career progression and recognition is often through the publication of papers, but that little is done to recognise and reward work done to put science in to practical farm use."

The Award is funded by the OFC and the RASE with additional sponsored support from AB Agri. The Award aim is to encourage and recognise new thinking and innovation and is open to academics, researchers and commercial company employees. It will recognise three areas of research merit:

• Novel and original application
• Clear economic benefit to the industry, food chain and consumers
• Improved sustainability through the more efficient use of resources

The prize will be £10,000, of which £3,000, funded by AB Agri, will be awarded to the individual and £7,000, funded by the RASE and the OFC, to the institution or business at which the R&D team or individual is based.  The latter monies will be used to support further research work on the subject, through the support of a studentship, traineeship or the purchase of a piece of research equipment.

Henry Cator, Chairman of the Royal Agricultural Society of England, commented: “The RASE is delighted to link with the Oxford Farming Conference to launch this award. The Society's motto, Practice with Science, has never been more relevant. The challenge of feeding more people while leaving less impact on the environment is absolutely key to our future. Success relies on the development of robust and relevant science that is effectively communicated to farmers on the ground. This award recognises the importance of that vital chain."