The North Carolina Agricultural Research Service (NCARS) is the research function of the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences. Research programs range from fundamental to applied in support of agriculture, the environment, as well as health and well being. Forestry research is a jointly conducted program between NCARS and the College of Natural Resources. NCARS is funded principally by appropriations from the North Carolina General Assembly, federal formula funds, grants and contracts.

Our Mission

The mission of NCARS is to develop the knowledge and technology needed to:

Improve productivity, profitability and sustainability of industries in agriculture and the life sciences;
Conserve and improve the state’s natural resources and environment;
Improve the health, well being and quality of life of North Carolina’s citizens;
Provide the science base for research and extension programs.
Many research faculty in NCARS have joint appointments in teaching or extension. In classroom and informal teaching functions, our research scientists develop and teach quality science-based curricula in the fields of agriculture, biology, social sciences and the environment. Our faculty also contribute to the graduate training of students destined to become leaders, teachers, and scientists who will help sustain viable agriculture and life science industries.