Research Branch of Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada

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Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada’s Research Branch (French: Direction générale de la recherche d'Agriculture et agroalimentaire Canada) is a branch under Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, a department of the Federal Government of Canada.

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada’s Research Branch [1] is responsible for world class science and innovation focused on supporting the competitiveness and sustainability of Canada’s agri-food sector. With a national network of 19 Research Centres [2] and 2,300 employees, including some 500 research scientists, the Research Branch focuses on national priorities [3], including the enhancement of:

- human health and wellness through food, nutrition and innovative products;
- the quality of food and the safety of the food system;
- the security and protection of the food supply;
- economic benefits throughout the value chain from producers to consumers;
- the environmental performance of the Canadian agricultural system;
- knowledge of Canadian bioresources and the protection and conservation of genetic diversity; and,
- new opportunities for agriculture from bioresources.

The Research Branch conducts, enables or coordinates scientific research which supports the Government of Canada’s agri-food policy, regulatory responsibilities, role in supporting the Canadian economy and of stewardship of Canadian agricultural capacity. This is done by identifying and taking on challenges and opportunities that will benefit from the application of sound science to succeed in the achievement of national objectives. Strategic direction is set by taking into account scientific, innovation and economic opportunities and challenges for the sector in Canada and abroad. Research capacity and capability within Research Branch is leveraged through collaborations and partnerships with other organizations in the country as well as internationally.

Research Branch meets its mandate to conduct long-term strategic, basic and high-risk research to expand the foundation of knowledge required to support a dynamic and rapidly changing sector through the capacity provided with its internal funding. Adaptive research and innovation in support of the development of value-added products, processes and systems that will be of value to the agri-food industry and consumers is supported through funding strategic collaborations or partnerships with private and other public sector organizations, both domestic and international.

[edit] External links

AAFC Science and Innovation

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada's National Priorities