Climate change

The Climate Change Research Group works to improve understanding of: the impact of climate change on forests and forestry; what role forestry can have in mitigating greenhouse gas emissions and climate change; and how forestry can adapt to reduce the impact of climate change and to benefit from any opportunities. The research is across the spectrum from more fundamental measurements, through developing methods and tools, undertaking practical action and demonstration, and providing advice and evidence to underpin policy. We have many external collaborations in the UK and Europe.

Communications

The team is in charge of communicating Forest Research science to the wider forestry sector, government departments and the public. We liaise with Press offices and policy departments, organise events and look after the agency’s digital communications. We are also responsible for a vast image library and the Research information service.

Fellows

“Fellows” are former staff members, and acknowledged experts in their respective professional areas, who continue to work with us on an ad hoc basis in support of our activities.

Field Data Services

Field Data Services provide reliable, timely and high-quality field data services to support scientific evidence and sustainable tree, wood and forest management. We deliver this through a resilient network of highly trained professional staff and associates. Our services include, but are not limited to, field data collection, sample collection, field experiment maintenance, field QA, plant supply, training and advice, drone operations and terrestrial laser scanning. Staff are located throughout England, Scotland, and Wales and offer a GB-wide service.

Forest genetics

The Forest Genetics Science Group has a long history of tree improvement. Over the last 75 years significant improvements have been achieved in Sitka spruce and several other conifer species. Richard Whittet is currently responsible for tree improvement. The group is also involved in conservation genetics and this is led by Joan Cottrell. Scientific support for Forest Reproductive Materials is provided by Stuart A’Hara. The group also has a longstanding participation in EUFORGEN (European Forest Genetic Resources Programme). It is also a founding member of the Conifer Breeding Cooperative.

Human resources

The Human Resources team is a strategic and operational partner in delivering FR Strategy for Growth. We play an important role in shaping long term people strategies and supporting a highly skilled, motivated and diverse workforce. We strive for a positive inclusive culture and working environment. We influence change initiatives around developing and growing talent, leading and managing; attracting and retaining the best people; management information and systems and championing FR being a great place to work. For all general enquires please read our careers page  or email HR.services@forestresearch.gov.uk

Inventory, forecasting and operational support (IFOS)

IFOS provides practical software and data solutions to help our customers manage information about their woodland resource in a pragmatic and integrated way.  We also provide information, evidence and official statistics on the woodland resource in GB. We do this by blending GIS, Data Science, Statistics, Mapping and Forestry skills providing analysis, modelling and data processing solutions to answer the questions and queries posed to us.

Land use and ecosystem services (LUES)

The aim of LUES is to deliver evidence, methods and tools which support policymakers and practitioners in their understanding of how land use and climate change affects the biodiversity, resilience and ecosystem services of wooded landscapes now and in the future.

Mensuration, growth and yield

The group focuses on quantifying Britain’s woodland resources, enabling the wood processing industries and renewable energy sector to assess the potential for UK raw material. Utilisation of UK timber also depends on timber quality, so our research also aims to enable timber producers to understand how to improve their raw material and help ensure wood can compete with other materials.

Physical environmental sciences

Understanding the complex interactions between forests and their physical and historic environment. Our research on physical environmental issues aims to ensure that forestry policies and practice can support this objective for land management.

Research Office

Members of the Research Office team provide programme and project management support to research staff. In addition, they identify relevant funding opportunities, support engagement with potential partners and provide practical advice and encouragement throughout the bid preparation process. Once funding is awarded, the team provide ongoing project delivery support, including setting up research contracts, managing grant finances, and promoting knowledge exchange and impacts.

Senior management

Senior management include members of the Executive Board and their staff

Silviculture and wood properties

The main aim of the Silviculture and wood properties Research Group is to provide scientific understanding and knowledge exchange to increase the resilience of Britain’s forests to climate change and biotic threats, whilst maintaining productivity.

Society and environment research group (SERG)

The Society and Environment Research Group (SERG) examines how trees and woodlands benefit society, and the drivers for their creation, management and use.

Tree health

The Group’s role is to sustain the forestry and tree sector through three main activities –

• Provide rapid  advice and diagnosis via Tree Health Advice and Diagnostic Service
• Undertake relevant and topical research on the pest and pathogen threats that affect British trees and which informs management and future proofing
• Undertake analysis and evaluation to underpin government policy on tree health [and provide representation at internal Plant Health forums]

Urban forests

The Urban Forests Research Group (UFoRG) delivers scientific knowledge on the UK’s urban forests (all the trees in and around the urban realm – in public and private spaces, along linear routes and waterways, and in amenity areas). The Centre for Excellence for Land Regeneration to Woodland is housed within the Group: producing and disseminating science and expertise required to deliver sustainable woodland and wider green-infrastructure from degraded land.