A new collaboration to open new opportunities for early-career individuals and professionals has been announced by Agri-TechE and the Institute of Agricultural Management (IAgrM).
The Early Career Innovators’ Forum (ECIF) will be promoted by the two organisations across their networks, including opportunities to attend events. This will also include two fully funded places on the IAgrM Farm Management Skills Programme (FMSP).
Dr Laura Bouvet, knowledge exchange manager at Agri-TechE, sees opportunities for a wider blend of backgrounds participating in ECIF.
“It gives IAgrM members the chance to understand the agri-tech world better and the exciting new innovations in development,” says Laura. “Likewise, researchers and tech developers can get insight into practical farm management.”
Victoria Bywater, IAgrM director, says: “IAgrM is passionate about supporting the next generation of professionals who will shape the future of agriculture. This collaboration with Agri-TechE allows us to connect emerging talent with the practical knowledge and networks they need to thrive.
“We are offering ECIF participants the chance to apply for two fully funded places on the IAgrM Farm Management Skills Programme this year, hosted at Harper Adams University.”
ECIF in action
Elin Falla came across ECIF at a careers event. An interest in plant science led Elin to do a PhD at Cambridge University, studying mathematical models of the spread of aphid-transmitted viruses through crops.
“One of the reasons I was so keen to join ECIF is because my PhD is quite theoretical and I don’t get an overview of what the agricultural industry looks like,” explains Elin. “It can seem a bit mystifying at first. Academic papers aren’t the same as hearing about the industry and what other people involved do.”
Once she has completed her PhD, Elin wants to explore opportunities to work for an agri-tech company or pursue further research in the industry. She sees the connections she makes at ECIF as helping her achieve that ambition.
“I still haven’t decided what direction I might take. Either way, it’s important to me that my research is valuable and talking to the people involved daily is really helpful for that,” adds Elin.