Director's Introduction & Welcome

This is the most wonderful time to be a biologist.  Spectacular advances in our understanding of how living systems work and interact with the environment at the level of cells, molecules and populations have changed the fundamental characteristics of the bio-sciences.  In parallel with these developments, society is seeking solutions to the major challenges facing our planet: climate change, food, water and energy security, together with environmental sustainability.

These challenges, together with the knowledge-based economy of the 21st century, will rely on the bio-sciences and their associated technologies.  IBERS is exceptionally well positioned to capture these emerging opportunities by connecting discovery and translational research to ensure economic and social impact.  Modern 21st century universities recognise the significance of mission diversity, and IBERS, as an integral part of Aberystwyth University, will embrace the need for individual creativity and scholarship together with strategic, problem-based research that addresses the most pressing challenges facing society.

World class performance requires an emphasis on excellence, quality focus and impact together with an outward looking international perspective.  It also requires significant levels of investment in staff and facilities to attain a critical mass of resources to magnify points of differentiation.  The establishment of IBERS meets this challenge, creating a distinctive institute that is ‘fit for purpose’ and able to tackle a range of problems that are beyond the reach of most other organisations.

Enhancing national research capability within Wales that is aligned to global and governmental priorities will also create a dynamic intellectual and entrepreneurial environment that will help attract more world class scientists to support the development of home grown talent.  By having world class experts, undergraduate and postgraduate students will be inspired and proud of their affiliation with IBERS, Aberystwyth University and Wales.