26 February 2026

Two of the UK’s specialist universities - the Royal Agricultural University (RAU) and the Royal Veterinary College (RVC) - have agreed to work together to expand their research and transnational education opportunities in a partnership which they hope will help to address many global challenges.

Building on their combined research expertise, the two historic universities - which cumulatively boast more than 400 years of teaching and research – plan to establish ambitious research and teaching initiatives with support of national Governments and industry partners.

RAU Vice-Chancellor Professor Peter McCaffery said: “This partnership is a significant milestone for our two institutions. As two fiercely independent specialist universities, our partnership will be an exemplar of Higher Education collaboration in line with the Government’s expectations in its Post-16 Education and Skills White paper.

“The RVC’s global reputation in veterinary research complements the RAU’s strength in transnational education in regions central to global food security including China, the Middle East, Uzbekistan, and Ukraine.   

“As a valuable British export, our joint expertise in veterinary and agricultural education will also contribute further economic growth to the UK in response to the Government’s newly published International Education Strategy.”

Specifically, the two institutions will be collaborating on expanding further research and transnational education opportunities in partnership with their global partners.

Their collective expertise in technology, and nature-based and policy innovations, is essential for addressing global challenges such as antimicrobial resistance, biodiversity loss, and global food security.

Professor Stuart Reid CBE, RVC President & Principal, said: “We are delighted to be embarking on new collaborations with our colleagues at the RAU. With this strategic partnership, the RAU and the RVC aim to develop and deliver impactful joint education, training, research, and knowledge exchange both at home and internationally. 

“As the Government sets out its international agenda for education, our liaison is as timely as it is exciting with TNE the cornerstone of knowledge and skills as major export commodities.”

Senior staff from the RVC recently visited the RAU to meet with colleagues and officially sign a Memorandum of Understanding between the two institutions.

Professor McCaffery added: “Last November, both the UK and China Governments agreed that agriculture and food research was one of four important shared priorities, so research partnerships between UK and China will be an important focus of our collaboration.”