From grassland science to global sustainability challenges, Professor Trevor Gilliland has witnessed the evolution of agricultural research first-hand. As AFBI celebrates 100 years, he reflects on the changing priorities that shaped his career and the future of the sector
As AFBI celebrates its centenary, Professor Trevor Gilliland reflects on a period of significant change in agricultural research. Drawing on experience gained through research, his leadership roles at Hillsborough and his continuing academic work at the Institute for Global Food Security, Queen's University Belfast (QUB), he recalls how scientific priorities evolved during his time as Head of Agriculture Branch at AFBI Hillsborough (2015–2020), and considers the challenges facing the sector in the decades ahead.
During this period, agriculture was increasingly required to balance productivity with environmental responsibility, a shift that was reflected in both research priorities and industry discussions.
"We were moving from production-focused agriculture to also thinking about carbon footprints and environmental considerations," he reflects.
For Trevor, this shift represented more than a new research priority; it marked a broader change in how agricultural science approached the balance between productivity, environmental responsibility and long-term sustainability. Researchers were being asked not only how to improve efficiency and output, but also how agriculture could respond to emerging environmental challenges while remaining economically viable.
Having initially studied Botany before moving into Agricultural Botany at Queen's, Trevor began his research career in grassland science before moving through a range of research and leadership roles. Along the way, he was influenced by colleagues and mentors whose standards helped shape his own approach to science and communication.
Among them was Professor Fred Gordon (former Director of the Agricultural Research Institute of Northern Ireland), who lectured him during his student days.
“Prof Gordon clearly recognised the need to build on the botanical science expertise I had gained though my QUB botany degree by placing it into the context and scale of production agriculture. This brought a full appreciation of the challenges facing the agricultural sector, which underpinned my future career as an agrifood research scientist”
Prof Gordon's emphasis on understanding the fundamentals, communicating clearly and getting to the point helped shape Trevor's own approach to research and leadership.
When he moved into leadership at Hillsborough, one of his priorities was creating an environment where scientists could focus on what they did best.
"I wanted to protect research time and give scientists more freedom and less bureaucracy," he says.
That focus on supporting research extended beyond organisational structures. Trevor also recalls practical improvements around the Hillsborough site that helped make day-to-day working life more comfortable for staff and visitors alike.
"I think it was the small things that made differences. We got seating out in the courtyard, a water cooler in the kitchen and many other things that just made life more comfortable. It was important to show in practical ways that the staff were valued and that I would support them"
At the same time, he remained clear about the institute's core purpose.
"I was very focused on scientists doing research and publishing. That was my priority."
A defining theme of Trevor's career has been ensuring that research remains firmly connected to industry needs. Throughout his time in agricultural science, he has been involved in discussion groups, farmer meetings, farm walks and training events, helping to translate research findings into practical outcomes for the farming community.
For him, that relationship between researchers and industry has always been one of Hillsborough's greatest strengths.
"The most important thing for me was connection with industry, absolutely crucial."
Trevor's experience also extended beyond Northern Ireland. Over the years, he became involved in international advisory work and research collaborations, contributing to projects and reviews across Europe and further afield, including engagements in the Gulf region, former Soviet states and China.
Today, despite describing himself as a 'hobby scientist', he remains actively involved through his academic role at Queen's University Belfast and consultancy work across the agrifood sectors. Most of all he enjoys supervising his PhD students who are the emerging scientists that will seek solutions to the challenges that the industry is facing now and into the future.
Asked what advice he would offer the next generation, Trevor highlights three qualities in particular: a strong grounding in scientific theory, the ability to think innovatively and the ability to communicate effectively.
"Every student needs a good grounding in scientific theory, an innovative mind and the ability to communicate, particularly in writing. And of course, enthusiasm and a passion for science."
Looking ahead, he sees significant challenges but also considerable opportunities.
"The major challenge is the carbon footprint of the livestock industry."
He believes Hillsborough's specialist facilities and expertise place it in a strong position to contribute to solutions, helping researchers better understand how efficiency gains can improve both environmental and economic performance.
"The good news about it is that every efficiency we can find not only reduces the carbon footprint of the industry, but it also improves its profitability and sustainability."
Seeing a new generation of scientists coming through the system leaves him optimistic about the future. For Trevor, their enthusiasm is a reminder that the strengths which have characterised Hillsborough for decades - scientific excellence, close industry engagement and a commitment to practical impact - remain firmly in place. As agriculture continues to evolve, he believes those qualities will remain just as important in the years ahead.