AFBI’s research ‘makes a real difference to Northern Ireland’
Date published:
Projects on the impact of climate change on grassland production, the use of genetic data to drive innovation, and the rearing of outdoor pigs are all highlighted in a new booklet showcasing the Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute’s (AFBI) research over the last year.
The AFBI Science Impacts 2026 booklet showcases innovations led by scientists at the institute including the application of environmental DNA as a plant health surveillance tool, research into the role of vitamin D in bovine tuberculosis, and the use of virtual fences in suckled calf production.
Over the last year, AFBI has been instrumental in researching environmental issues including around water quality, invasive zebra mussels in Lough Neagh, and work predicting the effects of increased temperature on the ecology of the Irish Sea.
AFBI Chief Executive Dr Stanley McDowell said: “AFBI science makes a real difference - it contributes to Northern Ireland’s economic and environmental sustainability, helps improve our agri-food systems, protects animal and plant heath, ensures the safety of the food that we eat and helps Northern Ireland meet the challenges of our land and marine environments.
“The booklet captures the impact of our science locally, nationally, and internationally. It also captures the breadth and depth of that work.”
Over the past five years, AFBI produced almost 750 publications which were cited more than 11,000 times - evidence that AFBI’s work informs scientific advances far beyond Northern Ireland.
Dr McDowell added that most of AFBI’s most impactful work comes from long-term science programmes and data collection studies, including the slurry experiment at AFBI Hillsborough and monitoring of NI’s waters and lakes.
“This booklet is a reflection of our people, it is the excellence and hard work of our staff which delivers scientific outcomes,” he said.
“The contribution of our staff is felt in safer food, healthier animals and plants, cleaner waters, stronger ecosystems, and a more sustainable and competitive agri-food sector.”
Notes to editors:
AFBI is an arms-length body of DAERA delivering research and development, diagnostic and analytical testing, emergency response capability and expert scientific advice for DAERA and other government departments, public bodies and commercial companies in Northern Ireland, and further afield.
AFBI’s Vision is “Scientific excellence delivering impactful and sustainable outcomes for society, economy and the natural environment”.
AFBI’s Purpose is to deliver trusted, independent research, statutory & surveillance science, and expert advice that addresses local and global challenges, informs government policy and industry decision making, and underpins a sustainable agri-food industry and the natural and marine environments.
AFBI’s strategic priorities:
- Leading improvements in the agri-food industry to enhance its sustainability;
- Protecting animal, plant and human health;
- Enhancing the natural and marine environment;
- Delivering quality outcomes and impact;
- Enabling world class science through excellence in people, places & technology.
All enquires to AFBI Press Office afbi.press-office@afbini.gov.uk