RESAS Strategic Research: 2014 Highlights

Overview of RESAS strategic research

The Scottish Government funds an on-going programme of strategic scientific research on a five-year basis through the Rural and Environment Science and Analytical Services (RESAS) division. The current funding period runs from 2011 to 2016, and the research supported contributes to the development and delivery of rural affairs, food and environmental policy and the achievement of the Scottish Government's purpose and wider objectives, as set out in the National Performance Framework.

Research funded within the Rural Affairs, Food and Environment (RAFE) portfolio supports a Greener, Smarter and Wealthier Scotland and contributes toward the achievement of a number of national outcomes including:

• We value and enjoy our built and natural environment and protect it and enhance it for future generations;
• We reduce the local and global environmental impact of out consumption and production;
• We are better educated, more skilled and more successful, renowned for our research and innovation.

The Scottish Government's RAFE investment in scientific research provides a foundation for:

• the sustainable use of our natural resources;
• the productivity and profitability of our agricultural sector and rural businesses;
• the prevention and effective management and control of animal and plant diseases;
• our ability to respond effectively to global challenges such as food security and climate change.

The funding also helps maintain Scottish-based scientific capability of international standard and associated infrastructure at the Scottish Government's Main Research Providers (MRPs).

strategic priorities

RESAS-funded research addresses current and emerging challenges to meet short- and medium-term policy needs. RESAS funding can also establish and support longer-term strategic research to understand change over time and enhance resilience to future threats. We also strive to enhance productivity and economic growth, maintaining critical infrastructure and research assets, while developing future research capacity and capability.