Our science is changing the world.

The James Hutton Institute offer world-leading scientific solutions for the sustainable management of land, crop and natural resources that support thriving communities.

EXPLORE OUR SCIENCE

The James Hutton Institute – Science connecting land and people

At The James Hutton Institute we respond to the challenges posed by the climate and nature crises through applying our scientific expertise to developing interventions, tools, products and land management practices to improve the resilience of crops, land, natural resources and communities.

Our unique research is tested in labs and at scale on our farms. We combine expertise in both natural and socio-economic sciences to consider the connections between crops, resources and people.

Improving crop resilience and sustainability

Delivering food and plant products, ensuring economic prosperity and wellbeing while safeguarding the environment.

Protecting and enhancing natural capital

Increasing the resilience of ecosystems for multiple benefits.

Connecting land and people

Supporting sustainable and resilient communities through social, economic and technical innovations.

Agricultural robot (agri bot,) in The James Hutton Institute crop field

Our scientific services

The James Hutton Institute offer a range of analytical, commercial research, crop science, consultancy and scientific project services, all underpinned by world-leading science, facilities, resources and intellectual property.

Discover the services we offer

Latest news from The James Hutton Institute

Members of the public invited to forestry film screening and workshop in The James Hutton Institute’s new Immersive Suite

Scotland’s leading event for knowledge exchange in arable farming, Arable Scotland, has launched a new initiative which will take place at The James Hutton Institute in Invergowrie, on Tuesday 24th February 2026.

‘Weeds’ with benefits: gorse in sustainable landscapes

New Hutton report reveals need for collaborative work to fight flooding, drought and other issues at River Eden and Motray Water catchments in Fife

A new report from Hutton Scientific Services – the commercial wing of The James Hutton Institute – has revealed the urgent need for collaborative action to tackle flooding, drought, and other water-related challenges in Fife’s River Eden and Motray Water catchments.

The potential of oil-based cover crops to provide an alternative aviation fuel

Scientists at The James Hutton Institute and SRUC have collaborated on a report for the Scottish Government on the potential for oil seed cover crops grown in Scotland to be used as a feedstock for aviation fuel.

Unlocking the fresh market potential of blackcurrants

Researchers at James Hutton Scientific Services have received funding for a further five years to develop blackcurrants for the fresh fruit aisle, thanks to a partnership with Winterwood Farms Ltd.

The James Hutton Institute receives multi-million pound investment from Scottish Enterprise

The James Hutton Institute has received a £3 million investment from Scottish Enterprise for its new high throughput phenotyping facility, part of the Advanced Plant Growth Centre (APGC) housed in our Crop Innovation Centre (CIC).

LOCATE YOUR BUSINESS AT THE HUTTON

Our open science approach means that we have a variety of offices, labs and glasshouses available to rent on a long term-term basis at our sites at Invergowrie, Aberdeen and Glensaugh.

Find out more

The James Hutton Institute innovation centres

Advanced Plant Growth Centre

World-leading plant science delivering innovative solutions for food and environmental sustainability.

Glensaugh

Climate-positive farming initiative, tackling the climate and biodiversity crises with transformative farming and technological innovations.

Hydro Nation International Centre

Promoting innovative and transformative research solutions for sustainable water management.

International Barley Hub

A centre of excellence in barley research, innovation and knowledge exchange

International Land Use Study Centre (ILUSC)

An innovation centre focused on making a difference: enabling just transitions in land use.

National Potato Innovation Centre

We are proposing to establish and manage a National Potato Innovation Centre (NPIC)

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Science

The James Hutton Institute welcomes visitors to brand-new Hutton Hub for first Business Breakfast

Scientific services

Resources

Hutton scientist backs Climate Change Committee’s advice to UK Government

Impact