London Research and Development Centre

The London Research and Development Centre (London RDC) located in London, Ontario was established in 1951. It is one of the Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada's (AAFC) network of 20 research and development centres. 

The Centre is associated with two satellite locations:

• Research and containment level greenhouse facilities at London; and

• Research Farm at Vineland Station focused on alternative and environmentally acceptable crop protection technologies for tree fruits and small fruits.

Areas of Research

AAFC scientists at the London RDC conduct research on field crops and bio-based products/processes, develop and transfer technologies for integrated pest management strategies and lead research in crop genomics and biotechnology. The centre also supports research on air, water and nutrients.

The centre is one of seven sites for AAFC’s Minor Use Pesticide Program where potential pest management trials are conducted to support Canadian growers and industries. 

Search Research projects from the London Research and Development Centre to learn more about what we do.

Sector Needs

The London RDC carries out innovative research, development, technology and knowledge transfer activities in support of the AAFC's Strategic Plan for Science, which includes:

• Clean technologies

Research in clean technology seeks to expand yield and quality of agricultural products, increase resource use efficiencies while reducing waste and addressing concerns about toxicity and safety to the environment.  

• Horticulture

Horticulture research emphasizes plant protection and improvement of high-value crops including fruit and vegetables, development of alternative pest and disease control, and integration of biopesticides into pest management practices.

• Agro-ecosystem resilience

Research in environmental microbiology and chemistry is conducted with the goal of protecting environmental and human health. This research includes expertise in molecular microbiology, analytical chemistry, the ecology of pathogens, and toxicology to improve our ability to assess risks from emerging microbial and chemical contaminants and validate remediation strategies.

• Cereals and pulses / Oilseeds

Research in developing crop improvements by harnessing the genetic potential of plants.

• Develop tools to improve the quality traits and productivity of crops.
• Identify, track and control plant pathogens and insect pests.
• Develop tools to prevent the development of disease and insect resistance.

Meet our Scientists

Find out more about the scientists at London Research and Development Centre through their profiles below.

You can also visit the Fields of Science campaign featuring 11 Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada scientists from coast to coast. Discover why they chose to pursue a career in agriculture and learn more about their research.