Researchers hit top gear at Clarkson's Farm

Britain’s most famous farm hosted University of Essex researchers showcasing cutting-edge farming technology at one of the UK's biggest agricultural events.

The world-leading scientists exhibited at Diddly Squat Farm, made famous by Amazon’s Clarkson’s Farm.

They showcased academics and enterprise specialists at Cereals 2026, the country's flagship arable farming show.

The University’s stand attracted farmers, agritech companies and industry leaders from across the UK, highlighting Essex's expertise in areas including precision livestock technology and sustainable farming

A major focus was the work of Professor Edd Codling, who is collaborating with Nofence and farmers such as Hywel Morgan on pioneering research into tracking cattle and sheep using virtual fencing technology.

His research explores how digital monitoring and virtual boundaries can improve livestock welfare while helping farmers manage animals more efficiently and sustainably.

Professor Codling said: "Cereals was a fantastic opportunity to showcase the research that the University is undertaking in collaboration with farmers and the wider agritech industry.

“Presenting on the BASE stage with Hywel Morgan, a 10th generation upland farmer, and seeing how our research can directly inform and benefit those undertaking regenerative farming practices was inspiring."

Dr Amanda Cavanagh and Dr Pallavi Singh also presented their plant and agri-tech research, focusing on improving photosynthesis and making crops more resistant to climate change.

'Great opportunity'

Professor Codling presented together with Hywel Morgan on both days of the event on the BASE UK Regenerative Agriculture where they discussed the opportunities facing livestock farming as the sector embraces more regenerative practices.

Holly Leonard, Head of Business Engagement, said: “Cereals was a great opportunity for us to present the exciting work Essex researchers are doing with farmers and agri-technologists to come up with solutions to on-farm challenges.

“The team met a huge variety of prospective new partners from industry, who visited the stand to discover more about Essex research and how it could help their business.”

The University's presence at Cereals 2026 reflects its growing role in supporting innovation across the agriculture sector through world-leading research, industry collaboration and knowledge exchange.