Learn how this KTP revolutionised vertical farming systems.
The project was awarded the highest grade of "Outstanding" by the KTP grading panel?
Intelligent Growth Solutions (IGS) was founded in 2013 to make vertical farming commercially viable at scale by combining automation, smart LED lighting and power management in a modular unit for the first time.
The James Hutton Institute is a world-leading independent scientific research organisation based in Scotland but working in collaboration across the globe. Its pioneering science innovates and finds solutions for the challenges posed by the climate and nature crises on the sustainability and resilience of our crops, land, natural resources and communities through the development of transformative tools, interventions, products and land management practices.
A KTP to develop, test and validate revolutionary high intensity crop growing systems producing consistent, high quality products year round with limited environmental footprint.
The KTP was needed to develop crop growing protocols and operational practice while transferring knowledge into IGS and their customer base.
IGS developed novel automated vertical farming systems where crops are grown in enclosed systems with light provided by tuneable LEDs This is an entirely new concept in high intensity crop production requiring the development of novel skill sets to maximise potential crop yield, organoleptic and nutritional quality
“The initial work of the KTP has snowballed into a multi million pound investment programme that will transform the science undertaken across the entire institute. It will have impacts on our scientific direction and interaction with industry for many years to come.”
Alasdair Cox
Director of Operations
IGS is now co located on the JHI campus, facilitating ongoing collaboration. Liaison within and between the partners has been strengthened, and they have increased their industry, research and public profiles. The KTP was graded A (Outstanding) by Innovate UK, shortlisted for the 2019 Agrifood Tech Innovation Awards, and the partners were awarded funding for a second KTP in microbiology.
Senior Biochemist
Robert Hancock is a senior biochemist and plant physiologist with 25 years post-qualification experience. His primary interests are concerned with the biochemical determinants and impact of biotic and abiotic stress on crop quality and how crop management and management systems can influence yield and quality.
KTP Associate
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