Meet Dr Alex Setchfield Research & Knowledge Exchange Manager at Ceres Research

My name is Alex, and I have recently joined Ceres Research as its Research and Knowledge Exchange Manager. I am a qualified biological scientist having obtained a PhD in Mechanistic Biology from the University of York, in collaboration with Fera Science, and hold a Master’s degree in Industrial Biotechnology, as well as a Bachelor’s degree in Biology. Before my role at Ceres Research, I worked as a Venturing Business Scientist at Fera Science, supporting its strategic and international growth agenda. 

Throughout my academic studies and early career in the Agri-Food and Agri-Tech sectors, I have been driven to create real-world impact from scientific research and innovation through various translational activities. During my PhD, I developed a patent-pending microbial bioconversion process to transform crop waste and residues into feed for Black Soldier Fly larvae, an alternative protein-rich feed for monogastric livestock such as pigs, chickens, and fish. Whilst developing the innovation in the laboratory, I explored commercialisation routes for its translation, and won the Global Biobased Business Plan competition in 2021, pitching to a panel of investors on behalf of team ‘InsBio’. This process cemented my passion for ‘productising’ scientific research towards delivering innovative, sustainable solutions in agriculture, building on a range of entrepreneurship training undertaken during my PhD. 

Following my PhD, I joined Fera Science as a Venturing Business Scientist. Here, my work continued to focus on the application of science and innovation through the creation of strategic partnerships with international companies, governments, and regulatory bodies, as well as the development of translational research projects in collaboration with academic institutions focussed on topics such as plant health, soil and water quality, land use and natural capital, and novel food and feed sources. 

Having grown up in rural North Yorkshire, I have had a long-standing keen interest in farming and food production, and have an appreciation of the practical challenges that farmers and growers must navigate in an ever-changing sector. When I saw that the Ceres Group was seeking a Research and Knowledge Exchange Manager to support the growth of its new venture, Ceres Research, I felt it was the ideal opportunity to pivot my scientific career towards working directly with farmers and growers – the rest is history! 

Ceres Research provides independent data-driven solutions for the agricultural and related industries, led by the latest scientific research and information. It strives to drive change ‘on-the-ground’ by converting complex data and knowledge into actionable insights and solutions for farmers, growers, landowners, and the rural economy. At a time where farming is facing significant change, I believe practical solutions to the challenges faced by rural businesses are more important than ever, underpinned by high-quality robust scientific research and innovation, and independent specialist advice. Keep up to date with our activities moving forward by following Ceres Research social media channels, and by exploring our new website.