Silsoe Research Institute had an international reputation for its research in Agricultural, Food Processing and Environmental Engineering. In 2004, its main sponsoring body, the BBSRC, decided to cease its support due to changes in its own research priorities. Silsoe Research Institute thus ceased operations at the end of March 2006 after 80 years of operation.
Many of the unique skills and facilities that were offered by SRI remain available, as many staff have either moved to universities or consultancies or have set up in business. This web site is operated by the network of former SRI staff to enable you to have continued access to this range of research experience and facilities.
If you are interested in the work of this group of people, please browse the various research themes on this site for the most appropriate contact, or use the search facility provided. To contact known former staff members directly, see the section on contacting staff.
There are two projects underway in 2006-07 which attempt to capture the essence and flavour of the work and the workers at the Institute from its beginnings in 1924.
Roger Hoxey is collecting memories and amusing anecdotes from staff with a view to producing an informal account of life at the Institute. Please contact him if you have anything to contribute.
A more formal history is being compiled with help from former SRI scientists and a team of editors, with the intention of publishing a book which will be of interest to agricultural historians as well as former staff.