AFBI a ‘goldmine of resources’, independent evaluation finds

Over the summer, AFBI underwent an independent evaluation of its science - known as a peer review - conducted by external panels of experts from across the UK and Ireland.

The review was designed to assess the quality, impact and relevance of AFBI’s science both nationally and internationally.

The review found that AFBI’s science was strong overall and outstanding in several areas, including on food and environmental microbiology, plant and bee health, freshwater science, ruminant research, and agricultural economics.

Work aimed at tackling Bovine TB was praised as “outstandingly relevant and impactful”, while the work of the Soil Nutrient Health Scheme, which aims to test around 650,000 fields in Northern Ireland, was found to have “outstanding impact in national policy development and delivery”.

Reviewers also highlighted that AFBI carries out research that is both relevant to Northern Ireland and “… to internationally important priorities including climate change, environmental protection and food safety and security”.

As part of the review process, independent panels assessed work completed under two main categories – One Health and Integrated Agriculture, Environmental and Marine Sciences.

The One Health panel looked at research and services which focused on protecting animal, plant and human health including work on new and emerging diseases, disease surveillance, chemical food contaminants, food and environmental microbiology, and plant and bee health.

The Integrated Agriculture, Environmental and Marine Sciences panel looked at science and research which focuses on improving the sustainability and resilience of agri‑food and fishing systems while safeguarding the environment.

Guests at a special event in Belfast, including assembly members, academics, and representatives from the agri-food industry and environmental bodies, heard that AFBI was commended as “a unique goldmine of resources within NI (Northern Ireland), Ireland and UK including its databases, biological and chemical banks (and) scientific expertise…”

The peer reviewers considered Northern Ireland was “fortunate indeed to have an institution such as AFBI within its borders”.

Professor Julie Fitzpatrick, formerly Scotland's Chief Scientific Advisor, who chaired both review panels, said: “The Peer Review was a robust process which assessed if AFBI was delivering effective science and where improvements could be made.

“It was a pleasure to take part in the process and learn about the important work being carried out by AFBI.”

AFBI Chief Executive Dr Iain Williams told guests that the peer review process had underlined the importance and quality of AFBI’s research.

“I’m pleased that the review has highlighted what we already knew – that AFBI produces impactful, internationally-recognised science and research,” he said.

“AFBI is committed to scientific research and services which make a meaningful difference to Northern Ireland society, the environment and economy through leading innovations in the agri-food industry; protecting animal, plant and human health, and enhancing the environment.”

Professor Grace Mulcahy, Chair of AFBI’s Board, said: “AFBI is proud to highlight its excellence in research and to look forward to what more can be accomplished in the future.

“We look forward to working in partnership with DAERA (the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs), the agri-food industry and wider society to solving challenges that affect us all.”

DAERA minister Andrew Muir MLA said: “The science and research carried out at AFBI has, for many years, provided the important evidence to inform government policies.

“It is vital that we continue to invest in science to support evidence-based policy.

“AFBI will continue to play a vital role for government, industry and the environment in the years ahead.

“As a department, we are committed to supporting AFBI and ensuring its excellent science continues to have a positive impact for Northern Ireland.”