GRANT: Co-Chair for the Global Research Alliance - Livestock Research Group

Tender description

Defra is looking to award a grant to appoint a UK-based co-chair for the Global Research Alliance - Livestock Research Group. Global Research Alliance members fund Research Group co-chairs, who have a very important and influential role, setting the work agenda, driving each Group’s activities and steering the collectively-funded flagship projects. Having access to co-chairs with appropriate expertise, resource and ambition is crucial for the Global Research Alliance achieving its objectives. Defra would like to nominate a leading UK expert on livestock science as a co-chair for the Livestock Research Group, which forms part of the Global Research Alliance and cover the costs of their time, travel and an assistant for 2 years. The Livestock Research Group focusses on reducing the emissions intensity of livestock production systems and increasing the quantity of carbon stored in soils supporting these systems; areas in which the UK has significant expertise and areas in which the UK faces future challenges reducing greenhouse gases emissions in line with carbon budget requirements. Farm animals have a crucial role helping lift people out of poverty and build sustainable livelihoods in developing countries. It is estimated that globally, meat production accounts for 18-25% of emissions. Increased global demand driven by population and demographic change could see this account for up to 70% of sustainable global emissions levels by 2050. The Livestock Research Group's work can help deliver more sustainable meat production. The UK co-chair would enhance access to UK expertise for developing countries and increase the UK’s ability to influence the agenda and priorities. This is a critical time for the Livestock Research Group; an existing co-chair is stepping down. A replacement is needed to maintain expertise and momentum at a time of expansion.