The future of agriculture depends on innovation — and on the people who will drive it.
Agritech Careers for a Sustainable Future, part of the John Innes Foundation’s Education Programme, is designed to help young people discover the wide range of opportunities available in this fast-evolving sector.
Delivered in partnership with the John Innes Centre, the SAW Trust and the Food and Farming Discovery Trust, the programme brings together science, technology and real-world careers to inspire the next generation.
A Day of Discovery at Norwich Research Park
This year, Year 12 students from six sixth form colleges visited the John Innes Centre for a full day of talks, interactive workshops and careers-focused networking.
Students heard directly from scientists, researchers and industry professionals working across Norwich Research Park and beyond, gaining insight into both cutting-edge research and the diverse career pathways within agritech.
New elements introduced this year added a more hands-on and interactive dimension. Students took part in laboratory practicals in the Chris Lamb Training Suite, led by scientists from Professor Anne Osbourn’s group, alongside a computational session delivered by the JIC Bioinformatics Team.
A structured networking session also gave students the opportunity to speak with professionals at different career stages – from Year in Industry students to senior researchers and industry representatives. For many, this direct interaction was one of the most valuable parts of the day.
Real Impact on Aspirations
The programme had a clear and measurable impact on students’ awareness and aspirations.
Before attending, only 17% of students said they would consider a career in agritech. By the end of the day, this had risen to 70%.
Students also significantly broadened their understanding of the sector. When asked to name careers in agritech, participants more than doubled the number of roles they could identify, with every student able to name at least two.
The event is now embedded within the learning pathway for Environmental Science students at East Norfolk Sixth Form College, reflecting its value as a meaningful extension of classroom learning.
Connecting Young People with Opportunity
Beyond the day itself, the programme is helping to open doors.
Students were provided with follow-up resources and information about organisations and opportunities across Norwich Research Park, with several continuing to explore the sector further. A number have already taken steps towards work experience opportunities as a result of attending.
Feedback from both students and teachers highlights the importance of these experiences:
“My students loved it! It’s inspired a few of them to consider PhDs and careers in entomology.”
“It was nice to interact with so many people at different stages in their career.”
Building the Future Workforce
Now in its fifth year, Agritech Careers for a Sustainable Future continues to play an important role in connecting young people with the science, innovation and careers shaping the future of agriculture.
By bringing together education, research and industry, the programme helps ensure that students not only understand the challenges facing global food systems — but can see themselves as part of the solution.