The James Hutton Institute - A Brief Overview
From our international research centres in Scotland we create integrated
solutions for the world’s most challenging and complex environmental
problems. We are the first integrated research centre in Europe; we are also
one of the biggest scientific centres in the UK.
So what do we mean by integration? Our definition goes beyond our
scientific innovation, our worldwide collaborative partnerships and
numerous interactions with industry, government and the general
public. Integration is about scientific disciplines working together and
evolving new scientific disciplines; it’s about using inter- and trans-
disciplinary approaches to look at complex problems in new ways and
seek solutions that can make a difference. To facilitate an integrated
approach, we devised a distinctive matrix structure at the Institute,
which meets our need to tackle complex problems with a range of
skills and provide flexibility to adapt to changing needs.
Our dynamic matrix structure
Our seven research themes apply the skills of our five
science groups to solve global challenges facing land
and natural resources.
Our matrix structure comprises seven themes that draw on the skills,
expertise and facilities within five science groups. With integrated
project delivery we can apply varied skills and resources to specific
projects. The structure also enables co-existing specialisation,
depth of knowledge with breadth of application. The five science
groups focus on delivering credible, leading edge research and
foster professional development and career progression; the seven
research themes integrate our research to address the demands and
challenges on land and natural resources.
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