Dr Rattan Yadav is a professor of plant genetics and holds a personal chair at the Institute of Biological, Environmental and Rural Sciences (IBERS) of the Aberystwyth University. An elected Fellow of the Learned Society of Wales (FLSW), he received his DPhil degree from the University of Sussex and subsequently undertook post-doctoral research at International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) in Philippines before coming to Aberystwyth in 1996. 

Professor Yadav is a globally recognised expert and international leader in crop genetics, whose pioneering research harnesses naturally occurring genetic variation in crops germplasm to deliver major public-good outcomes. His work tackles critical challenges in sustainable agriculture, food security, nutrition, and human health, supporting the development of resilient, high-performing crop varieties that benefit farmers, strengthen food systems, and provide environmental and health benefits worldwide. He has published over 155 highly cited research articles and secured more than £12 million in competitive research funding.

Professor Yadav plays a prominent role in shaping international research agendas through service on expert panels for leading UK and global research and innovation agencies, including BBSRC, UKRI, DFID, Innovate UK, the British Council, the European Commission, and CGIAR. He serves as an Academic Editor for PLOS ONE since 2014 and was a panel member of the UK Research Excellence Framework (REF) Sub-panel 6 (covering Agriculture, Veterinary, and Food Science) for REF 2021. Professor Yadav has again been appointed to this panel for REF 2029 .