Institute of Rural and Agricultural Development, Polish Academy of Sciences

The Institute of Rural and Agricultural Development of the Polish Academy of Sciences (IRWiR PAN) is a leading research institution in Poland, specializing in interdisciplinary studies on rural development and the functioning of the agri-food sector. As a high-ranking scientific institution, the Institute conducts analyses on economic transformation, innovation in agribusiness, and agricultural policy, providing key recommendations for both the public and private sectors. These activities are part of a broader international context, reflected in numerous projects carried out at both the national and European levels.

IRWiR PAN actively participates in international research consortia, collaborating with renowned scientific centers across Europe and the world. Currently, the institute carries out 6 Horizon Europe projects, among which is the "FOODPathS – Co-creating the prototype 'Safe and Sustainable FOOD Systems PArTnersHip'" (2022–2025), aimed at creating a sustainable scientific ecosystem in the field of food systems. Additionally, since 2024, IRWiR PAN has been implementing the project "FoSSNet – Pan-European Food Systems Science Network" (2024–2028), which focuses on building a pan-European research network for innovative solutions in the agri-food sector. The Institute is also involved in the "Rural Revival: A Life In The Inspirational Countryside" (2025–2029) project, which aims to revitalize rural areas and implement modern local development strategies.

At the national level, IRWiR PAN leads key research projects on innovation in the agri-food sector. Between 2024 and 2027, the Institute is carrying out the project "Regional Innovation Systems in the Polish Agri-Food Sector as a Response to Environmental Challenges," funded by the National Science Centre under the OPUS 25 competition. The project aims to analyze mechanisms that support the development of innovative agricultural solutions addressing contemporary climate and economic challenges. In parallel, the Institute previously participated in the "Quality System as a Guarantee of Good Pork" (2020–2023) project, which evaluated the quality and production standards of pork in Poland and explored methods for their optimization.

The Institute is also engaged in advisory and analytical activities at the European level. Since 2024, IRWiR PAN has been implementing the "Framework Contract for Analytical Services, Including Cross-cutting Analysis and Synthesis, on Agriculture and CAP Governance" (2024–2029), conducted in cooperation with PwC Poland and the Directorate-General for Agriculture and Rural Development of the European Commission (DG AGRI). This project aims to provide reliable analyses supporting the formulation of agricultural policy in the European Union, with a particular focus on reforms of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP).

For many years, IRWiR PAN has served as a bridge between science and economic practice, reflected in its extensive cooperation with the private sector and public institutions. In recent years, the Institute has developed over 40 expert reports utilized by government administration, local authorities, and industry organizations. Collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, the Agency for Restructuring and Modernization of Agriculture, and agricultural producer organizations enables the effective implementation of research findings into economic practice.

Another important aspect of IRWiR PAN's activities is the promotion of science and the education of future generations of researchers. The Institute organizes numerous conferences, seminars, and scientific workshops, promoting an interdisciplinary approach to research on the agri-food sector and rural areas. These activities contribute to strengthening research competencies and building an international scientific cooperation network, which facilitates the initiation of new projects and the application for new research grants.

By combining an interdisciplinary approach, international collaboration, and the practical implementation of research results, the Institute of Rural and Agricultural Development of the Polish Academy of Sciences plays a key role in shaping agricultural policy and supporting the sustainable development of the agri-food sector in Poland and Europe. These activities not only enhance the position of Polish science on the international stage but also contribute to the long-term transformation of the agricultural economy and the improvement of the quality of life in rural areas.