Today’s release of The UWA Institute of Agriculture's 2025 Annual Research Report is testament to another landmark year of agricultural research excellence, global collaboration and real-world impact at The University of Western Australia.

Featuring more than 300 peer-reviewed journal articles and book chapters, the report highlights how UWA researchers are driving innovation to address some of the world's most pressing agricultural challenges. 

Image: UWA Work Health and Safety Advisor Asli Ceylan, UWA Core Research Infrastructure Director Greg Cozens, Professor Kadambot Siddique and Farm Manager Tim Watts at UWA Farm Ridgefield.

It demonstrates the Institute's commitment to translating world-class science into practical outcomes through strong partnerships with industry, government and regional communities. 

In 2025, Agricultural Science at UWA retained its number one ranking in Australia and was named 13th in the world by the Shanghai Academic Ranking of World Universities.

From grassroots experiments in the Crawley glasshouses and field trials at UWA Farm Ridgefield, to publications in prestigious international journals and commanding the stage at international conferences, the Institute continued to enhance its reputation for excellence. 

In 2025, UWA secured $17.7 million in new research funding in agriculture and related areas, while the Institute’s externally funded portfolio remained strong.

The Institute’s Director Hackett Professor Kadambot Siddique said more than two decades-long partnerships and associations continued to help deliver powerful research and development impact from Western Australia to the world.

"Our collaborations and partnerships reflect the trust placed in UWA to lead research that is innovative, impactful, and globally relevant."

Professor Kadambot Siddique

 

In a year filled with many achievements both individual and shared, Professor Siddique led the way receiving the 2024 Crawford Medal in May 2025 and a Doctor of Science (honoris causa) by his alma mater in India, Kerala Agricultural University.

"I extend my heartfelt thanks to our staff, researchers, associates, students, board members, research theme leaders, collaborators and funding partners,” Professor Siddique said. 

“Their dedication, creativity, and commitment elevate The UWA Institute of Agriculture as a global leader in agricultural research, development and education.”

UWA Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research) Professor Anna Nowak said the Institute provided the framework that enabled vital work to have an impact through its leadership and strategic coordination. 

“At a time when sustainable food systems and climate resilience are defining global priorities, the Institute is playing a central role in positioning UWA at the forefront of research-driven agricultural solutions,” Professor Nowak said. 

"Sustained excellence at this level reflects not only the strength of individual research programs, but also the Institute's ability to unite diverse expertise in sustainability, food security, climate resilience, social impact and data-driven innovation."

Professor Anna Nowak

The Institute hosted and contributed to dozens of events throughout 2025, including its annual Industry Forum led by Winthrop Professor Fiona Wood which explored the future of Australia’s agricultural research, development, and extension landscape.

A highlight of media engagement was ABC’s Landline national segment featuring Best Practice Farming System Project researchers revealing how shade and shelter solutions are supporting livestock welfare and productivity at UWA Farm Ridgefield.

View and download the 2025 Annual Research Report