Forward thinking individuals with a desire to drive change in the arena of agri-food production, are invited to apply for the Nuffield Arden Award. Unique among the annual tranche of Nuffield Awards, ‘the Arden’ is a bi-annual Scholarship and is centred on a pre-determined topic set by the Nuffield Board.

The 2013 study, ‘How farming can learn from science to optimise the nutritional value of food produced,’ has been selected to provide a link to the commercial opportunities surrounding food and nutrition. Prospective candidates are advised that the closing date to apply for the Award is 10 January 2013.

“It is widely recognised that much of the food available today is of low nutrient quality,” comments Nuffield Chairman, Stephen Watkins. “Therefore, understanding how the quality of food can be enhanced will deliver significant benefits to society, not least in improving behaviour and health.

“This study will identify how British agriculture can seize new opportunities from the significant commercial and social benefits that can arise from using new science to optimise the nutritional value of the food.”

He adds that the Board are keen to see the selected Arden Scholar investigate these factors and seek out how consumers can attribute a higher perceived ‘quality’ to an agricultural product. “The research will benefit UK producers who are operating in a competitive market environment and need to distinguish their produce at every opportunity, making the promotion of superior nutritional quality an imperative to secure a viable market position.”

Philip Hughes Chairman of the Nuffield Communications committee adds; “It all comes back to the health of the soil. The ‘quality’ of agricultural food products and the health of the nation are related to the soils food is grown in and is a concept central to sustainable farming approaches, and therefore should form the foundation of this Arden study.”

Stephen Watkins adds; “As with all Nuffield awards, we are seeking innovative and aspiring leaders in the agricultural and horticultural industries to apply – with those with professional experience in the area of the assigned topic, being at a key advantage.”

Unlike other Nuffield awards, the Arden is open to all age groups, with funds made available to travel and study over a period of 12 months. Anyone with an interest in the topic must apply before 10 January 2013. No prior qualifications are necessary. Contact: director@nuffieldscholar.org