30. annual meeting of the Swiss Society of Agronomy

Research in the agro-food system:
dialogue between academia and practice

Thursday, 21 September 2023, School of Agricultural, Forest and Food Sciences HAFL,
Länggasse 85, 3052 Zollikofen

Our agricultural and food system faces numerous challenges. The ever-growing world population
requires sustainable and efficient food production. At the same time, we need to reduce the ecological
footprint of agriculture and achieve more sustainable management. The effects of climate
change require the development of more resilient farming systems that can withstand changing
environmental conditions. In addition, societal aspects such as the desire for transparency and
sustainability in food production must also be taken into account. Both basic and applied research
can make a valuable contribution to solving these problems. Doctoral students, as active
researchers, play a key role in developing new scientific approaches in close collaboration with
applied researchers and farmers to better understand the real challenges and needs of the agricultural
and food economy. Only in close cooperation with research, extension, agriculture and
industry can they develop approaches to solutions that are based on a solid scientific foundation
and at the same time can be implemented in practice. The aim of this conference is to highlight
existing networks and research projects in the field of agricultural and food systems. We would
like to advance the discussion on a better integration of academic and practical research, for
example by discussing the advantages and disadvantages of doctoral theses outside universities.
Furthermore, we would like to discuss the expectations of practice on academic research in order
to improve the exchange and cooperation between both sides and to create synergies. We are
confident that this conference will create fertile ground for dialogue between doctoral students
and the various stakeholders and produce innovative approaches to solutions for the current challenges
in the agricultural and food system. We look forward to stimulating discussions and an
inspiring exchange of ideas. Thank you for your participation!