Sf_0567 Research And Development Framework Agreement
Framework Description
SF_0567 is Scottish Forestry's planned multi-supplier research and development framework supporting its Tree Health Team, with an estimated value of £500,000. Suppliers will carry out new research, analysis against defined criteria and factual reporting on tree pests and diseases in Scotland, supporting its Corporate Strategy and Plan 2025 to 2030. It has two lots, modelling and geostatistics, and economic modelling and analysis, and will run for 36 months with an optional 12-month extension.
Context & Use Case
Scottish Forestry will call on framework contractors when it needs evidence for decisions on tree pest and disease threats, for example spread modelling or an economic impact assessment. Work may involve collaborating with others and presenting findings to stakeholders, and contractors may also support Sustainable Forest Management and Forest Sector Development work.
Scope of Services
Lot 1: Modelling and geostatistics, including spatiotemporal and compartmental modelling Lot 2: Economic modelling and analysis, including impact assessments and supply chain analysis Analysis of large spatial datasets Factual reporting on evidence and recommendations Presenting research findings to stakeholders
Lots
Lot 1: Modelling and Geostatistics; Lot 2: Economic modelling and analysis
Who Can Apply
It suits universities, research institutes and consultancies with modelling, geostatistics or economics expertise and an interest in tree health. Lot 1 calls for experience with large spatial datasets; Lot 2 calls for professional economics training and impact assessment skills. Tenders closed on 9 September 2026, so organisations that did not bid will need to wait for a future round.
Buyer Benefits
A standing panel lets Scottish Forestry commission specialist analysis quickly when a new pest or disease threat emerges, instead of tendering each study. It wants contractors who can turn complex modelling into clear findings for decision-makers, and the option to award both lots together lets it buy joined-up spread and economic analysis.
Next Steps
If you tendered, prepare for clarification questions and think through how you would mobilise on a first commission. If you did not, follow Scottish Forestry on Public Contracts Scotland for future research frameworks and build tree health, spatial modelling or impact assessment work you can cite next time. Partnering with an appointed contractor is another way in.
How Athena Can Help
Research frameworks reward bidders who explain method and relevance in plain terms. If you are in this competition, Athena's bid editing and proofreading sharpens clarification answers so evaluators see your modelling or economics expertise quickly.
For research organisations planning ahead, we prepare a research framework pipeline covering upcoming government and agency research panels, and provide tender support for researchers on individual studies, starting with a clear decision on which ones to pursue.
