We take a ‘food systems’ approach to understand and address issues across the food value chain and associated human and ecological drivers of change.
Food systems are at the intersection of major sustainable development challenges. They intersect climate change, biodiversity, water, energy, economics, gender, social inclusion, digital innovations, and human wellbeing.
There is a need for research to have positive impacts on social, economic, and environmental systems. This requires food research to look beyond production, to focus on value chains, markets, stakeholder values and social equity.
As a research intensive institute, we are always adapting methods to meet societal and environmental challenges through research and practice.
Read more about our research expertise and methodologies by downloading our Food systems capability statement (PDF 672kB).
Research news and projects
Blue food systems as nature-based solutions for climate resilience
Taking a systems approach to understand the role of blue foods as nature-based solutions in the Pacific region.
Why it’s time to put food security on the national agenda
A recent expert panel warns that Australia must broaden its food security conversation – and fast.
Shining a light on food security for Northern Rivers
ISF researcher Fiona Berry is at the forefront of conversation around food security for NSW’s north coast communities.
Peri-urban farming: the key to Sydney’s food future
From Moore Park to Castle Hill, Sydney gives the impression of being awash with farmers’ markets selling artisanal and locally grown produce to a large and...
Our team
Dana Cordell
Research Director
DVC (Research)
Federico Davila Cisneros
Research Director
DVC (Research)
Melita Grant
Associate Director Research
DVC (Research)
Elsa Dominish
Research Director
DVC (Research)
Stuart White
Director
DVC (Research)
Gordon Noble
Industry Fellow
DVC (Research)
Laure-Elise Ruoso
Senior Research Consultant
DVC (Research)
Samantha Sharpe
Program Lead - Transformative Learning
DVC (Research)
Tani Khara
Senior Research Consultant
DVC (Research)
Roel Plant
Adjunct Professor
DVC (Research)
Dena Fam
Adjunct Fellow
DVC (Research)
Judy Friedlander
Adjunct Fellow
DVC (Research)
Planning to undertake graduate research?
ISF has an award-winning graduate research program for Masters and Doctoral students.