NRI works with partners in the UK and elsewhere in Europe, often in collaboration with developing country organisations. These partnerships are built on common interests and objectives in particular thematic areas and draw on complementary strengths of the respective organisations. An example of such a partnership is work with the University of Reading on issues ranging from developing enhanced communication approaches to improving banana production systems in Uganda. Such collaborations often have a strong capacity building dimension; for example, through the provision of both degree and non-degree training programmes. Other UK organisations with whom NRI has regular collaboration include Rothamsted Research, John Innes Institute, CAB International, Overseas Development Institute and International Institute for Environment and Development.

Increasingly, NRI has partnerships with organizations in other countries in Europe. Many of these collaborations are designed to foster capacity strengthening in developing countries. NRI is a member of the European Consortium for Agricultural Research in the Tropics (ECART-EEIG) and the Network of European Agricultural (tropically and sub-tropically oriented) Universities and scientific complexes Related with Agricultural development (NATURA).