Impact of the James Hutton Institute

Economic Impact through Transformative Science

The James Hutton Institute (the Hutton) is one of the world’s leading scientific research institutions for the sustainable management of land, crops, and natural resources. Our analysis highlights how the Hutton underpins the success of important sectors of the Scottish economy.

We estimated that in 2023/24, the Hutton contributed £358.9 million GVA to the UK economy and supported around 2,575 jobs. Of this £210.7 million GVA and 1,525 jobs were in Scotland.

An impressive return on investment confirms the status of the Hutton as a key component of Scotland’s research and economic infrastructure.

Much of the Hutton’s impact arises through its plant breeding activity, research on crop genetics, and work to control and mitigate the spread of plant pests and diseases.

Whilst food security remains important, the Hutton is also at the forefront of research aimed at responding to climate change, tackling biodiversity loss, and improving public health and wellbeing. Its work to develop more sustainable production systems, restore valued habitats, and develop more effective approaches for responding to extreme climate events is making an important contribution to adaptation and mitigation of climate change.

Such impacts are more difficult to quantify in economic terms but represent huge benefits in terms of preventive spending in the face of likely high climate costs.

Fuelling Local Economies and Innovation Systems

In addition to its focus on major global challenges, the Hutton is mindful of its role in local economies and generates substantial economic value for both the Dundee and Aberdeen city regions. In 2023/24, it was estimated that the Hutton generated:

  • £40 million GVA and supported 410 jobs in Dundee City Region; and
  • £22 million GVA and supported 330 jobs in Aberdeen City Region.

The Hutton is facilitating the emergence of thriving and effective innovation ecosystems at its Aberdeen and Dundee campuses. An important catalyst for this has been the creation of the International Barley Hub and the Advanced Plant Growth Centre on the Hutton’s campus at Invergowrie.

Increase in Commercial Research

Alongside the development of these innovation ecosystems the Hutton has also increased its commercial research contracts, consultancy and collaborative research from under £1 million (in 2016) to £2.6 million (2024).

The full report can be read here. The press release from the James Hutton Institute can be read here.

Posted 08.08.25

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