Centre Leaders

Professor Nazanin Zand

Head of Department - Food & Markets, Professor in Food Science and Nutrition

n.zandfard@gre.ac.uk

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The Food Systems Research Centre, a pivotal part of the Natural Resources Institute (NRI), stands as a beacon in tackling the world's most urgent challenges. Central to our mission is the assurance of everyone's right to access safe, nutritious, and affordably priced food, produced with a commitment to sustainability and ethical practices. Recognized as a leading interdisciplinary centre, our dedication extends to addressing critical issues in food security, especially those exacerbated by climate change, food waste, and safety concerns.

Our approach is multi-faceted, involving a robust enhancement of research capabilities, fostering policy influence, and the widespread dissemination of our findings. This comprehensive strategy is designed to not only address immediate food-related issues but also to lay the groundwork for long-term, sustainable solutions. By collaborating with a variety of stakeholders, including governmental bodies, NGOs, and private sector partners, we aim to create a more resilient food system that can withstand the challenges of the 21st century and beyond.

Our research and initiatives are diverse, covering areas such as improving food production techniques, ensuring equitable access to resources, and developing innovative solutions to reduce food loss and waste. We place a strong emphasis on gender equity and diversity inclusion, recognizing the vital role these factors play in creating effective and sustainable food systems. Additionally, our work extends to exploring the economic and nutritional aspects of food, seeking ways to enhance the value of food products while maintaining environmental and ethical standards.

The Centre's commitment to knowledge sharing and capacity building is evident in our support for doctoral students and staff, encouraging groundbreaking research that contributes to high-impact journals and influences global food policies. Through seminars, workshops, and conferences, we facilitate vibrant intellectual exchanges, nurturing a dynamic environment where ideas and solutions can flourish.

Aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, our efforts contribute significantly to ending hunger, achieving food security, promoting sustainable agriculture, ensuring healthy lives for all, and fostering sustainable consumption and production patterns.