Department of Agroecology - Aarhus University

🎄 Holiday Research Spotlight Series 🎄 Today, we highlight Julian Nyaga, whose journey from Kenya to Denmark has ignited her passion for sustainable farming and agricultural innovation. Julian initially dreamed of a career in medicine, but the Kenyan university placement system led her to study agriculture at Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology. Despite initial reluctance, she excelled and found joy in her new path. Julian pursued a Master’s degree in biotechnology and nitrogen management, funded by a German DAAD scholarship. Her research focused on optimizing nitrogen use without compromising soil health or yields. This theme continues to shape her work today. Now a PhD student at Aarhus University, Julian's research focuses on reducing nitrogen fertilizer use while maintaining feed quality in grassland systems. By studying legume-based mixtures, she aims to identify plant combinations that reduce dependency on synthetic fertilizers and improve environmental outcomes. Read more about Julian's journey and her vision for a sustainable future: https://lnkd.in/dcRRZkV8 #Agroecology #Research #ClimateChange #SustainableSolutions #PhD #HolidaySeason

🎄 Holiday Research Spotlight Series 🎄 Today, we highlight Aristotelis Azariadis, whose roots in Greece's rich agricultural traditions have driven him to address modern agricultural challenges through innovative research. Born and raised in Athens, Aristotelis was inspired by his family's agricultural heritage. He pursued his academic foundation at the Agricultural University of Athens, earning both bachelor's and master's degrees. His curiosity and passion for understanding plant science led him to a PhD program in Denmark at Aarhus Universitet. Aristotelis' PhD focused on domesticating wild plant species, particularly potatoes, using advanced genome editing techniques. His groundbreaking work aimed to transform these untamed species into viable agricultural crops, creating methodologies and protocols that can guide future research. Now at the Københavns Universitet - University of Copenhagen, Aristotelis continues his work on domestication, focusing on grasses like barley. He aims to develop crops that can thrive in changing environmental conditions while meeting modern agricultural demands. Read more about Aristotelis' journey and his vision for a sustainable future: https://lnkd.in/dxDVMPhA Stay tuned for more portraits of our brilliant researchers. #Agroecology #Research #ClimateChange #SustainableSolutions #PhD #HolidaySeason

Biochar has gained attention as a potential practice to reduce agriculture’s climate footprint. With state funding now allocated to promote biochar production in Denmark through the newly approved tripartite agreement (#Trepartsaftale), research on its environmental impacts becomes more relevant than ever. In collaboration with NyTænk, Professor Peter Sørensen explains what biochar is and why it holds potential for a positive climate effect. (In Danish only) #dkclimate #dkgreen #sustainability #biochar #innovation #agroecology

🎄 Holiday Research Spotlight Series 🎄 Today, we highlight Magnus Kamau Katana Lindhardt, whose research in agrivoltaics is paving the way for a future where sustainable agriculture and renewable energy go hand in hand. Kamau grew up in Copenhagen and Hundested, where his early interest in natural sciences was sparked by the sea and nature. After high school, he pursued a student position aboard the training ship Georg Stage, gaining invaluable skills and lifelong friendships. Back on shore, Kamau began a bachelor’s degree in Natural Resources at the Københavns Universitet - University of Copenhagen, specializing in plants. His academic journey took him to Brazil and Colombia, where he gained firsthand experience with tropical agriculture. These experiences deepened his understanding of how climate and culture shape agricultural systems and reconnected him with his Kenyan heritage. After completing his bachelor’s degree, Kamau pursued a master’s degree in Plant Sciences and Geoinformatics at Wageningen University & Research in the Netherlands. Returning to Denmark, Kamau worked at the Danish Agricultural Agency, focusing on satellite-based monitoring of farmland. However, he missed the hands-on connection with the land. Today, Kamau is pursuing a PhD at Aarhus Universitet as part of the EU-funded Value4Farm project, researching agrivoltaics—the combination of agriculture and solar energy. His work studies how vertical solar panels affect crop growth and quality, aiming to create multifunctional land use that produces both food and sustainable electricity. Read more about Kamau's journey and his vision for a sustainable future: https://lnkd.in/d_qYY9wS Stay tuned for more portraits of our brilliant researchers. #Agroecology #Research #ClimateChange #SustainableSolutions #PhD #HolidaySeason

Today, Diana Vigah Adetsu will defend her PhD thesis: "Improved mapping and characterization of peatlands using on-the-go geophysical sensors." Her research focuses on enhancing carbon accounting in Danish peatlands by evaluating innovative geophysical sensing methods. These methods offer cost-effective and accurate ways to map peat soil properties like thickness and extent, providing crucial data for restoration efforts to combat greenhouse gas emissions. 📅 Time: Wednesday, 18 December 2024, at 10:00 📍 Place: Auditorium, Department of Agroecology, AU Foulum, Blichers Allé 20, 8830 Tjele During her PhD studies, Diana Vigah Adetsu evaluated the capabilities of on-the-go geophysical sensing methods for cost-effective and accurate mapping of peat soil properties. You can read more about her PhD studies here: https://lnkd.in/deKKcuGz Join us in wishing Diana the best of luck today. #PhDDefense #Peatlands #GeophysicalSensors #ClimateAction #SustainableAgriculture #Agroecology #AarhusUniversity

🎄 Holiday Research Spotlight Series 🎄 Today, we highlight Selina Sterup Moore, whose journey from Singapore’s skyline to the fields of Denmark combines a global perspective with a mission to combat climate change through agricultural innovation. Selina's story begins in Denmark, though much of her formative years were spent in Singapore. After earning her bachelor’s degree in biology from the University of Copenhagen, she completed her master’s studies in Milan, specializing in genome editing of crops. However, she wanted to see her work applied in real-world scenarios, which led her to a PhD project at Aarhus University under Carsten Malisch, focusing on plant production and climate change mitigation. Her current research aims to minimize methane emissions from ruminants while enhancing carbon storage in the soil. By working with forage species high in tannins, Selina addresses two critical challenges—lowering atmospheric carbon emissions and improving soil health. Selina believes her research could help dairy and cattle production move closer to carbon neutrality. By identifying genetic factors influencing tannin content, her team aims to breed or engineer plants with enhanced bioactivity, potentially revolutionizing forage crops and creating more sustainable livestock farming systems. Read more about Selina's journey and her vision for a sustainable future: https://lnkd.in/d3HE6gga Stay tuned for more portraits of our brilliant researchers. #Agroecology #Research #ClimateChange #SustainableSolutions #PhD #HolidaySeason

🎄 Holiday Research Spotlight Series 🎄 Today, we highlight Franca Giannini Kurina, whose journey from Argentina to Denmark has been one of continuous learning, challenges, and advocacy for diversity and equality. Franca's academic journey began in Cordoba, Argentina, where she pursued a degree in agronomic engineering. Early in her studies, she discovered a passion for soil science, motivated by its quantitative and mathematical dimensions. During her postgraduate years, she completed a PhD and a Master’s in applied statistics simultaneously, focusing on herbicide dynamics in soils and geostatistical modelling. Now at Aarhus University, Franca's research revolves around modelling soil functions, particularly carbon sequestration and nitrate leaching. She has contributed significantly to projects like Klimagræs and Nitagro, applying machine learning to model and predict nitrate leaching patterns. Franca is an advocate for open science, transparency, and evidence-based decision-making. She believes that robust methods and clear documentation are critical for ensuring that research can effectively inform policies and farming practices. She also stresses the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration to elevate research. Despite her demanding schedule, Franca is committed to fostering equity in academia. Her involvement in gender equity and diversity initiatives reflects her belief in the importance of representation and inclusion. Read more about Franca's journey and her vision for a sustainable future: https://lnkd.in/dmik5Bgq Stay tuned for more portraits of our brilliant researchers. #Agroecology #Research #ClimateChange #SustainableSolutions #PhD #HolidaySeason

🎄 Holiday Research Spotlight Series 🎄 Today, we highlight Marco Lombardi, whose journey from Italy to Denmark reflects a deep commitment to sustainable agriculture. And today is extra special because it's in fact Marco's birthday 🎉 Originally from Rome, Marco's academic background blends nutrition and food science. After completing his studies in Italy, he pursued a second master’s degree in food technology, where he began to see the connections between food systems, plant science, and climate change. This realisation led him to a PhD in plant science, focusing on characterising key genes and molecular mechanisms that control deeper rooting in crops to mitigate carbon emissions. Now a postdoctoral researcher, Marco is developing innovative methods to analyse and improve high-throughput root phenotyping in agricultural systems. His work aims to measure root traits directly in the field, focusing on perennial mixtures to reduce reliance on monoculture and align with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). At the heart of Marco’s research is a vision of agricultural systems that go beyond carbon neutrality to become carbon negative. By increasing root biomass through deep-rooted varieties, he hopes to enhance soil carbon storage and resilience. Read more about Marco's journey and his vision for a sustainable future: https://lnkd.in/d4JP9bXj Stay tuned for more portraits of our brilliant researchers. #Agroecology #Research #ClimateChange #SustainableSolutions #PhD #HolidaySeason

🎄 Holiday Research Spotlight Series 🎄 We continue our holiday calendar by showcasing some of our talented young researchers. Today, we highlight Alexa Peterson, whose journey from computer science to sustainable agriculture is redefining what it means to grow for the future. Born and raised in Canada, Alexa started with a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science but soon realised her passion lay elsewhere. Switching to Plant Biotechnology, she focused on genetics and breeding, and her interest in sustainable agriculture blossomed during her master’s program. While exploring PhD opportunities, Alexa found a program at Aarhus University that aligned perfectly with her interests. Now, seven months into her PhD, she is immersed in understanding how perennial crops can transform sustainable agriculture. Perennial crops offer several advantages over traditional annual crops, including reduced soil erosion, better carbon sequestration, and overall reduced environmental impact. Alexa's research aims to transition these ideas into practical applications for farmers. Read more about Alexa's journey and her vision for a sustainable future: https://lnkd.in/dEkmvpYy Stay tuned for more portraits of our researchers. #Agroecology #Research #ClimateChange #SustainableSolutions #PhD #HolidaySeason

🎄 Holiday Research Spotlight Series 🎄 We continue our holiday calendar by showcasing some of our talented young researchers. Today, we highlight Satya Srii Ram Vijayan, whose lifelong fascination with seeds has led to her position at Aarhus Universitet. Growing up in India, Satya was captivated by the stories her mother told about seeds. This early curiosity set the stage for her academic journey, which took her from India to international research hubs like Sorbonne University and Howard University. Satya works with Prof. Fiona Hay to develop non-destructive methods for testing seed moisture content in coated seeds. This novel approach aims to ensure seed quality and longevity, addressing a significant challenge in agriculture. Her research has far-reaching implications for seed storage, viability, and global food security. Beyond the lab, Satya collaborates with seed companies to ensure her findings translate into actionable solutions. She is passionate about making science accessible, sharing daily "seed facts" on social media and authoring a book titled For the Love of Seeds. Looking ahead, Satya envisions a world where seeds play a pivotal role in building sustainable and resilient food systems. She hopes her work will inspire a new generation of researchers and contribute to global efforts to conserve biodiversity and improve agricultural practices. Read more about Satya's journey and her vision for a sustainable future: https://lnkd.in/daKaAYMH Stay tuned for more portraits of our brilliant researchers. #Agroecology #Research #ClimateChange #SustainableSolutions #PhD #HolidaySeason