contract research

Contract research

STRI’s research teams, working from laboratories and research facilities in three continents, have years of experience testing solutions in warm and cold climates. We work with clients from a range of industries who utilise our expert and highly flexible turf researchers to objectively and independently assess their products or solutions. Our team test products and systems for use in the following areas;

  • construction of sports surfaces, green infrastructure and amenity facilities
  • plant protection products
  • plant nutrient/health products
  • integrated management of surfaces or facilities
  • grasses and their management
  • machinery used to maintain sports surfaces
  • green infrastructure and sustainability

 

Contract research

Product and systems development

Understanding how a new product or system works under field conditions is essential in getting it to market. STRI leads research at all stages of development to provide clients with the necessary data and feedback on their product. From laboratory studies and pot trials through to full scale field trials, STRI’s experienced team can design bespoke research trials to meet your objectives.

Product testing

Scientifically robust data is key in validating a product’s efficacy and potential to end users. STRI develops research trials to provide essential data to support and endorse product marketing copy. We also work closely with clients on ways to optimise use of their products in the same or different markets.

Concept validation

STRI can test viability of a product, system or solution either in pre-development or early-stage development. Basing decisions on scientifically robust data can be invaluable for steering a product or solution’s development and entry to the market. Our team can guide you through this phase, giving confidence backed by science.

ORETO testing

As part of the authorisation process, all plant protection products have to undergo efficacy and crop safety testing. This ensures there is robust scientific evidence to support how the product will be used, its optimal dose rate and its impact on other plants. STRI holds an ORETO certificate meaning we are officially recognised to undertake this type of research work to the required methods (typically EPPO guidelines). We have decades of experience of carrying out official recognition testing on fungicides, herbicides, insecticides, plant growth regulators and adjuvants.

Grass testing

The varieties of grass used on sports surfaces are subject to continuous improvement from plant breeders. This ensures that the grasses we grow are adapted and optimised for their intended use and future challenges. STRI carries out grass testing for the BSPB and GEVES to assess how varieties perform under different conditions and uses, and how they compare to each other.

STRI has worked alongside the British Society of Plant Breeders (BSPB) since 2003, conducting trials using the BSPB testing system at our research facility in Yorkshire.  This trial provides the data for the annual comprehensive buyers’ guide to quality amenity turfgrasses which can be downloaded HERE

sectors we serve

  • Sports

  • Environment

delivering end-to-end bespoke solutions

As a multi-disciplinary, interconnected team, we bring together experts who develop solutions to create places which improve people’s lives as humanity adapts to the unprecedented challenges posed by climate change and population growth. We offer our clients tailor made strategies to support their goals and objectives, whether that be complete end to end project delivery or specific, targeted solutions. Our promise is to deliver future proof strategies and designs, that will stand the test of time, harmonising the ever increasing demands being placed on the built and natural environment.

let’s start our conversation today

If you’ve got a question, or would like us to help you with a project, we’d love to hear from you. Complete the form, give us a call or come and see us.