
Cutting-edge research facilities and world-leading expertise
Kent and Medway is home to four state-of-the-art horticultural and plant-based food and drink research facilities.
Whether you're looking for new crop protection options, alternative packaging, or to automate your production, we can connect you with the right experts to help solve your research challenge.
NIAB
Specialists in molecular genetics, genomics, pest and disease biology and management, crop and post-harvest physiology, agronomy and environmental science.
The GreenTech Hub for Advanced Horticulture is a new state-of-the-art glasshouse and propagation unit. Features include; plant growth rooms with controlled environment and a Wine Innovation Centre.
University of Kent
The Biotechnology Hub applies high-tech approaches to production and processing of high-value foods and plant-based compounds from plant material and waste, pathogen identification and control, and maintenance of healthy soil.
University of Greenwich
Research specialists in crop protection, post-harvest storage, value addition and food innovation. The Medway Food Innovation Centre can help your business solve your food processing challenges and support new product development.
Canterbury Christ Church University
Specialists in alternative fuels, robotics and mechatronics, advanced manufacturing and automation. The Industrial Agri-Engineering Hub helps provide real-world solutions to real-world problems.
The Hub is located in the Verena Holmes Building, a multi-million-pound facility for Science, Technology, Health, Engineering, and Medicine.

Discover the research centres here to support you in Kent and Medway
Glasshouse and propagation unit, with controlled environment plant growth rooms and modern polytunnels.
A new laboratory with new cutting-edge new equipment to support a wide-range of research, from managing crop diseases to sustainable packaging options.
With new capabilities in alternative proteins, novel processing, sustainable packaging and product development as well as the business support, the Centre will deliver step-changing food innovation.
The Industrial Agri-Engineering Hub contains the technologies and spaces for ground-breaking innovation and pioneering research, supporting businesses, emerging entrepreneurs, and innovators in taking ideas from concept to market.
Research and Innovation News
Read more news and inspirationResearch
Growing Kent & Medway is teaming up with Innovate UK and BBSRC to showcase how they invest in research and innovation for the UK fruit sector.
Research
A new partnership with Canterbury Christ Church University to connect horticultural and food and drink businesses with agri-technology specialists.
Research
A new research centre offically opens at the University of Greenwich, as part of Growing Kent & Medway’s investment into food and drink innovation
Research
A voucher scheme, offering food and drink businesses 75% funding towards projects worth up to £20,000 with leading research organisations is now open