A lecturer at Aberystwyth University has been chosen to receive a Royal Welsh Agricultural Society bursary to enable him to attend the prestigious Oxford Farming Conference.

Dr Cennydd Owen Jones is a grassland management lecturer at Aberystwyth University. His research, particularly his work on environmental sources of bovine TB in Wales, has significantly contributed to advancements in Welsh agriculture.

Additionally, he supervises numerous research projects at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels, focusing on various aspects of grassland management.

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Alongside his academic career, Dr Jones is a hands-on partner in the family farm, where he oversees the milking of 80 cows on a grassland system with minimal inputs.

The judges commended the high calibre and passion of all candidates, who included:

• Sara Roberts from Carmarthen

• Emily Morgan from Glamorgan

• Leah Davies from Clwyd

• Cennydd Owen Jones from Ceredigion and

• Lynfa Jones from Montgomery

Held from January 8-10, 2025, the Oxford conference, themed 'Facing Change, Finding Opportunity', is a significant gathering for thought leaders and innovators across the agricultural, rural, and food sectors, known for its influential debates and high-calibre speakers.

The RWAS Bursary is awarded annually to a candidate aged 25 to 35 who is actively working within a land-based industry.

As part of the bursary, Dr. Jones will also have the opportunity to contribute an article for the 2025 Society Journal, sharing insights from the conference with RWAS members.

Following a rigorous interview process with a panel comprising RWAS representatives Esyllt Ellis Griffiths, Jonathan Hugh Davies, and the 2024 bursary winner Glenn Lloyd, Dr Jones emerged as this year’s selected candidate.

Each county-nominated applicant brought unique perspectives and demonstrated an inspiring commitment to the future of agriculture and rural communities.