The James Hutton Institute, Scotland’s pre-eminent interdisciplinary scientific research institute for the sustainable management of land, crop and nature resources, is delighted to announce that Professor Pete Iannetta, a research leader in ecological feed and foods systems, has been elected Chair of the UK Legume Research Community (UKLRC).
The UKLRC was established in 2024 to bring together researchers, practitioners and stakeholders from across the UK who share a passion for legumes. The community aims to advance academic understanding while unlocking the full potential of legumes to enhance biodiversity, improve environmental functions and support human health.
Of particular importance is the ability of legumes, working with bacteria living in legume root nodules, to pull nitrogen from the atmosphere and make it available for plant growth.
Professor Iannetta’s appointment comes at a pivotal time for the sector. Reflecting on his new role, he said, “This is a crucial moment for legumes and biological nitrogen fixation. Our diverse community is uniquely placed to deliver the fundamental and applied insights needed for regenerative land use and a more resilient UK feed- and food-system.”
UKLRC’s outgoing Chair, Professor Lars Ostergaard, praised the progress of the network and said, “The UKLRC has become a collaborative, dynamic and internationally impactful community.
“I have no doubt that Professor Iannetta, along with our new Deputy Chair, Professor Donal O’Sullivan, will lead the community from strength to strength.”
Professor Iannetta’s appointment reinforces the Hutton’s leading role in advancing sustainable agriculture and food systems and highlights the growing importance of legumes in delivering resilient, climate-smart solutions for the future.