The Northern Ireland Institute of Agricultural Science (NIIAS) is a two hundred and seventy strong body, set up to represent the professional interests of agriculture and food science graduates working in Northern Ireland. Their membership is drawn equally from the public and private sector with every aspect of Northern Ireland’s important agri food industry represented. Each year they organise a series of events for members throughout the Autumn, Winter and Spring months. These are co-ordinated to reflect the latest thinking – both local and international – which continues to impact on the farming and food sectors.

A particular highlight is the Annual Conference which takes place in February. As well as providing unique opportunities for members to expand their professional knowledge base, each of event represents a unique networking occasion. There is also a strong social dimension to all NIIAS get-togethers, the annual charity quiz being a case in point.

These are exciting times for the agri-food sector. Given the growing pressure on the world's food resources, the challenge facing agriculture and food graduates has never been greater, and it is in this context that the work of the NIIAS will be focussed during the period ahead.

Membership is open to all agriculture and food graduates working in Northern Ireland.

Mission Statement

The institute will develop and further the mutual interests of members and promote professional standards of service in the agricultural industry

Activities

• An Annual Conference and a series of evening meetings are held each year. These provide a forum for the exchange of information and viewpoints, usually in an informal setting
• Study groups research and report on subjects of current interest to the agricultural industry
• Careers guidance is given to students, graduates and diplomats investigating opportunities in the agricultural industry
• Networking opportunities are offered within the agricultural industry in Northern Ireland, the Republic of Ireland and Europe
• A journal is published which contains a permanent record of the Institute and articles of interest to the membership

Contact NIIAS via the website http://www.niias.co.uk