R&D Sector in Reading

Reading is a powerhouse of research and development, home to globally significant organisations and institutions working at the intersection of sustainability, science, and technology. With notable strengths in agriculture, climate science, water and energy systems, as well as emerging links to the defence sector, Reading offers a rich environment for research-led innovation and collaboration. 

Agriculture and food systems research 

Reading’s agricultural research credentials are widely recognised, with the University of Reading earning international acclaim for its leadership in agriculture, food systems, and sustainable land use. Its School of Agriculture, Policy and Development is ranked among the world’s best and collaborates closely with governments, global agencies, and industry to tackle some of the most pressing challenges facing our food systems. 

Reading’s strength in food science research is equally well established, with 95% of its work rated as internationally significant (Research Excellence Framework, 2021). This expertise is actively applied in industry collaborations, most notably through Knowledge Transfer Partnerships such as those with children’s food brand Ella’s Kitchen (based in nearby Henley-on Thames), which have driven innovation in product R&D. 

Excellence in climate and environmental science

Reading is a global centre for climate, weather, and environmental research. Anchored by the University of Reading’s Department of Meteorology (one of the best in the world) and the headquarters of the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (at the forefront of research in numerical weather prediction), Reading is also home to a number of major institutions advancing climate science and resilience. 

Key organisations based in Reading include: 

• European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) – A world leader in weather prediction and climate modelling 
• Royal Meteorological Society – The UK’s professional body for weather and climate science 
• Anesco – A leading clean energy company focused on renewable technologies and decarbonisation 
• Thames Water – Headquartered in Reading and innovating in water sustainability and infrastructure 
• SSE – One of the UK’s largest energy providers with a strong presence in low-carbon technologies 
• Wood – A global engineering consultancy delivering sustainable infrastructure and environmental solutions 

These organisations represent a critical mass of expertise in climate adaptation, resource management, and green innovation, making Reading an ideal base for environment-focused R&D. 

Growing links with defence innovation 

Reading is a growing hub for defence innovation, driven by cutting-edge research, strategic industry presence, and proximity to key national assets. The University of Reading’s internationally recognised research in cybernetics underpins advancements in autonomous systems and secure technologies.  

Major players such as Collins Aerospace, based at Winnersh Triangle, and Thales, located at Green Park, are advancing technologies across aerospace, digital security, and defence systems, making Reading a critical node in the UK’s defence and security landscape.  

The Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) - a strategically important partnership between the UK, Italy, and Japan – is set to establish a presence in Reading, alongside the Atomic Weapons Establishment (currently based just outside the town), further strengthening Reading’s role in advanced defence and aerospace innovation.  

Advancing life sciences through R&D and collaboration 

Reading is also a centre for cutting-edge life sciences research, demonstrated through the University of Reading’s internationally recognised expertise, leading pioneering work in neuroscience, cardiovascular health, and metabolic diseases. This research in scientific advancement, coupled with fostering collaboration with local businesses, creates a dynamic environment for research-driven innovation and growth.