Success Stories

The Scottish Government invests over £50M annually in a portfolio of strategic RAE Science and Research – principally through its main research providers (MRPs). Their innovations have been shown by independent studies to contribute to the economy and build businesses with the potential to drive future growth. Success Stories brings to life specific examples of how the organisations in knowledgescotland use Scottish Government support to bring economic, environmental, social and health benefits to Scotland and beyond.

Richard Lochhead Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs and the Environment said: “Innovation is crucial to ensure Scotland’s vital food and agriculture sectors continue to flourish. The success stories highlighted today demonstrate the strength and breadth of the world class research being carried out in Scotland. However, the projects also have a practical application which will deliver benefits throughout the food supply chain and boost these important sectors of Scotland’s economy.”

Sustainability and Communities

EPIC - Centre of Expertise on Animal Disease Outbreaks

The livestock disease risks that are faced in Scotland are constantly changing making it essential to provide timely and effective policy advice to the Scottish Government. EPIC Read more

Published on 17 October 2013 in Sustainability and Communities , Food, health and wellbeing

Spreading the Word on Legumes

Research by SRUC (formerly SAC) on legume based crop rotations has led to an increased awareness and understanding of their benefits. SRUC's research has encouraged more farmers to adopt legume based rotations, particularly as nitrogen fertiliser prices remain high. Read more

Published on 15 July 2011 in Sustainability and Communities

Breeding the future dairy cow

Research by SRUC (formerly SAC) has led to the national adoption of new breeding goals for dairy cattle that improves the health, welfare and economic performance of livestock in the UK and beyond. Read more

Published on 8 July 2011 in Sustainability and Communities

Breeding gains for the sheep sector

SRUC (formerly SAC) research has been fundamental in the development, implementation and enhancement of UK sheep improvement programmes. It has brought about significant genetic and economic improvements across all sheep industry sectors, estimated to be worth Read more

Published on 6 July 2011 in Sustainability and Communities

Improving the diagnosis of endemic livestock diseases

Moredun Research Institute has developed a diagnostic test for sheep scab which can accurately diagnose infestation before clinical signs are seen, therefore increasing livestock production efficiency and help reduce the carbon emissions from agriculture. Read more

Published on 22 June 2011 in Sustainability and Communities

Where's the beef?

Research by SRUC (formerly SAC) has led to the adoption of new breeding systems for beef cattle that improves the health, welfare and economic performance of livestock in the UK and beyond. Read more

Published on 21 June 2011 in Sustainability and Communities