"Soil's geological, chemical and biological characteristics can provide vital clues about where and how crimes have been committed or where and how death might have occurred, helping to contribute to the investigative jigsaw of crime investigation" The important role soil can play in forensic investigations has again been highlighted by the involvement of the James Hutton Institute’s soil forensics team in a high-profile case, this time the enquiry by South Yorkshire Police into the disappearance of toddler Ben Needham on the Greek island of Kos 26 years ago. Related content Environmental and
"We are fortunate to have an outstanding natural environment in the North East. The safeguarding of our amazing biodiversity is something that all ages can, and should, be involved in" The James Hutton Institute will be hosting a BioBlitz event at its site in Craigiebuckler on Friday 28th July - come and help ecologists identify as many species of plants, animals and fungi, in a race against the clock to learn as much as possible about biodiversity in the North East. Twenty organisations including OPAL, Saving Scotland’s Red Squirrels, Scottish Wildcat Action, RSPB, Butterfly Conservation
Following the success of the War of the Worms, Moredun were delighted to join forces once again with animator Selina Wagner (Blobina Animations) to create another engaging short film. Battle of the Bugs highlights the key biosecurity messages that are a critically important part of disease prevention and control.
Medication currently being used to treat obesity is also proving to have significant health benefits for patients with type 2 diabetes. A new study published today in Molecular Metabolism explains how this therapeutic benefit for type 2 diabetes is achieved by acting in our brain.
"This is a significant milestone for Scotland the Hydro Nation, as well as a personal achievement for Christopher" Christopher Schulz, a PhD candidate in Geography at the University of Edinburgh, the James Hutton Institute (Aberdeen) and Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC), Edinburgh, recently became the first scholar of the Hydro Nation Scholars programme to finish his studies. The Hydro Nation Scholars programme is a key element of Scotland’s drive to become a Hydro Nation, meaning one that manages its water environment to the best advantage, using its knowledge and expertise at home and
"The aphid is a known vector of Blueberry scorch virus, meaning it can transmit the virus from one plant to another, and although at present there is no record of detection of the virus in Scotland growers are advised to remain alert" The blueberry aphid, Ericaphis scammelli, has been detected during routine aphid surveys by SASA and is thought to be widespread across Scotland. It is also known to occur in other parts of the United Kingdom and Europe. The pest can be found more on some cultivars than others with highest infestation levels between May and July. Related content Cell and
"Fruit for the Future is one of the James Hutton Institute’s most successful and long-running industry events" Join us at Invergowrie near Dundee on Thursday 13th July for the 2017 edition of Fruit for the Future, the annual showcase of soft fruit research including scientific presentations, outdoors demonstrations and walks through experimental plots, presented by the James Hutton Institute and the Scottish Society for Crop Research. Fruit for the Future is one of the James Hutton Institute’s most successful and long-running industry events and is aimed at farmers, agronomists
"It seems that bere has been saved from the brink of extinction and those precious grains left by our ancestors all those years ago may give us some tangible benefits today in supporting rural communities, human health and environmental and agricultural sustainability" The profile of bere barley, its potential as a source of traits for human and environmental health and as a source of living heritage was highlighted at an event recently held on and around the mainland of Orkney, featuring a range of lectures, demonstrations, tours and product tastings. Related content Cell and Molecular
"I am happy that ideas from the symposium were met with interest and encouragement by the honourable audience, which included members of the Dutch Royal Family" The potential of social innovation to tackle depopulation in rural areas of Europe and beyond was the focus of a presentation offered by James Hutton Institute social scientist Professor Maria Nijnik at the Royal Palace in Amsterdam, with HM Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands and HM Queen Máxima in attendance. Related content Social, Economic and Geographical Sciences Maria Nijnik More information from: Bernardo Rodriguez-Salcedo
Professor Julie Fitzpatrick the Scientific Director of the Moredun Research Institute and Chief Executive of the Moredun Group, also holds a Chair in Food Security in the College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences at the University of Glasgow. She is world renowned for her work in research and education of livestock health and welfare and participates in numerous scientific advisory bodies within Scotland, the UK and internationally.