IBERS Hosts Successful Monogram 2025 Conference in Aberystwyth
Monogram 2025
Monogram conference back in Aberystwyth after 12 years
IBERS (Institute of Biological, Environmental and Rural Sciences) at Aberystwyth University was proud to host this year’s Monogram 2025 conference, welcoming over 150 delegates from across the UK and beyond. The event was highly successful and brought together leading researchers, early career scientists, and industry partners for three days of engaging presentations, thought-provoking discussions, and collaborative networking focused on cereals and grass science research.
The conference opened with a new initiative designed to support Early Career Researchers (ECRs). This dedicated workshop provided PhD students and postdoctoral researchers with a welcoming space to explore career pathways beyond their doctoral studies and to share strategies for making the most of conferences. The session was widely praised by participants, who appreciated the open and supportive environment.
The main conference programme offered a diverse range of topics, reflecting the depth and breadth of plant and crop research. Day 1 featured four lively sessions covering crop diversification, resilience, and a thought-provoking discussion on 'Farm to Fork: Quality and Nutrition.' Poster flash talks and an engaging poster session offered further opportunities for knowledge exchange and collaboration.
Day 2 continued the strong scientific focus, with sessions on Physiology and Resource Use, Crop Genomics and Bioinformatics, and Below and Above Ground Development for Growth and Adaptation. One of the standout highlights for many delegates was the tour of IBERS state-of-the-art facilities, including the National Plant Phenomics Centre, the Biorefining Centre, and the Seed Biobank- to see our cutting-edge research infrastructure and to gain insights into our ongoing research programmes. Delegates praised the tour, with many commenting that they would have welcomed even more time to explore these world-class resources.
Throughout the event, the welcoming atmosphere of Aberystwyth and the stunning spring sunshine created the perfect setting for networking and socialising. Delegates were treated to delicious lunches and a Gala Dinner hosted by the excellent team at Medrus and enjoyed a special tasting of Welsh Penderyn whisky thanks to Chris from Eurofins. A unique creative addition this year was the presence of a conference poet, Clare Donnison, who captured the essence of the conference through poetry-a novel and memorable touch that resonated with attendees.
Hosting Monogram 2025 at IBERS was a natural fit, not only because of the institute’s strong reputation in crop and agricultural sciences, but also because the event aligned perfectly with Aberystwyth University’s strategic mission to support innovation, knowledge exchange, and impactful research with global relevance. The conference demonstrated the vital role that IBERS plays in the UK’s agricultural research landscape and showcased Aberystwyth as a hub for collaboration and scientific excellence.
IBERS and the Monogram Steering Committee would also like to extend their sincere thanks to all the sponsors whose generous support helped make the event possible. Their contributions ensured that Monogram 2025 was not only scientifically enriching but also welcoming, well-resourced, and accessible to researchers at every stage of their careers.
As the conference drew to a close, delegates departed with new ideas, new connections, and high expectations for Monogram 2026, which will be hosted by NIAB in Cambridge.
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