East Malling Research (EMR) is embarking on a recruitment drive as it looks to move from “surviving to thriving”.
The Kent-based research centre is to base its new business model on lining itself up with wider government goals in order to grow.
New chief executive Professor Peter Gregory, who took up the position in May, told FPJ the centre has a target of becoming “unquestionably the pre-eminent horticultural research centre”.
EMR will target Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council and DEFRA funding, in particular relating to water use, fertilizer use and chemical replacement. “Everyone focuses on the cuts but there is still funding out there,” said Gregory.
He is drawing up a strategic plan set for completion in November which will outline its focus over the next five years.
EMR has 80 staff, of which 30 are scientists. Around five new scientists are to be recruited in the short-term with 15-20 before 2016.
He said EMR will “place science first” and then look at individual products - hoping to learn about more general principles rather than specifics learnt for a “fractured” fresh produce industry.
He added: “It has been a very difficult period, that has been the reality. We are now at a crucial point. If we do not invest in new people and new facilities then we will not turn the corner that we have to.”
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