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The Royal Agricultural University is coordinating a training programme for UK researchers interested in collaborating more effectively with farmers and increasing the real-world impact of research.

Bridging Fields consists of a series of training events from online webinars, workshops and resources to immersive 3 days residencies and 1 day workshops across the country at partner institutions. There will also be the chance to be mentored by leading farmers and become part of a research community that values and promotes farmer-centric approaches to doing research

Gain the skills needed for effective on-farm research 

There is increasing funding and support for research that prioritises the challenges, knowledge, and experience of farmers. However, on-farm research requires practical and personal skills that can take years to acquire ‘in the field’. This programme is designed to equip researchers, at all levels of experience, with the specific theoretical and practical knowledge needed to co-design and run effective on farm research trials, as well as enhancing researchers' skills at collaborating and communicating effectively with farmers.  

How will the programme be delivered? 

The Bridging Fields programme kicks-off in summer 2025. A small team at the RAU have co-developed options with industry and researchers across the UK, to include online workshops and a series of residential courses at the RAU. With thanks to the Rothschild Foundation, all of the activities will be offered free of charge.  

Programme content

Theoretical  

  • Fundamentals including the theories underpinning farmer-led approaches and bottom-up methodologies e.g. indigenous knowledge and responsible innovation. 

  • Methodologies including user centred design, participatory action research, co-production and on farm experimentation. 

  • Systems approach; how to manage farm and food system complexity whilst also being specific & relevant to researchers. 

  • Deep dives into the practical realities of farming to understand the challenges farmers are facing. 

  • Understanding risk in farming and farmer motivations when taking part in studies and trials  

Practical skills 

  • Accessing farmers and farmer networks   

  • Building relationships with farmers   

  • Communication skills (e.g. active listening, facilitation & knowledge exchange)   

  • Setting up collaborative projects to be beneficial over the long term and not extractive  

  • Securing funding & reviewing funding applications - what does a route into a grant look like for a farmer?  

  • On farm trials & experimentation 

  • Including other industry members and underrepresented groups  

  • Bridging rural and urban groups/interests 

  • Being part of a farmer-led research community

Register your interest at the following form https://forms.office.com/e/dxf72m1FKH

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