Category: Network

Posted on

New specialist courses in Julia and R to secure the next generation of data scientists

To meet the growing demand for cutting-edge expertise, the Nordic, NKJ co-funded network NADAS has developed a brand-new course curriculum for data scientists. Through international training in the scientific programming languages Julia and R, the goal is to train the next generation of experts for both academia and industry.

 

The need for skilled agricultural data scientists is growing rapidly. To tackle this challenge, the NADAS network (Nordic across-domain network of agricultural data scientists) has developed and successfully organized two tailored specialist courses, featuring teachers and participants from multiple countries:

  • “Scientific computing using Julia language” – a deep dive into one of the fastest-growing languages for advanced computing.
  • “Statistical methods in animal breeding” – with a specific focus on Genomic Selection and Genome-Wide Association Studies (GWAS).

The training centered on fundamental methods and practical applications using the widely used scientific programming languages R and Julia. To keep the Nordic data community at the forefront and contribute further to talent development, the goal is to organize these developed courses repeatedly, with their contents continuously adjusted according to up-to-date developments in the area.

Behind this educational initiative is NADAS, which has built a large Nordic, across-domain network of agricultural data scientists working in academia and industry.

The courses and the network respond to immense interest, not only from researchers, but from the business sector. The interest has been so great that individuals from the industry have approached the network on their own initiative to join. By acting as a knowledge exchange platform through dedicated sessions targeting industry needs, the initiative now serves as a crucial bridge for communication, research, and cooperation across the Nordic countries.

Posted on

Nordic-Baltic database: A New Tool for Evidence-Based Policy and Cross-Country Collaboration

A new Nordic-Baltic sustainable food systems database will support evidence-based policymaking and facilitate cross-country comparisons.

 

A Nordic-Baltic framework for sustainable food systems has brought together experts from eight Nordic and Baltic countries, and contributed to enhance knowledge sharing on food systems and has developed theoretical foundations for a novel database on Nordic-Baltic sustainable food systems (NB-SFSD).

The database’s aims are to provide a comprehensive and integrated platform for collecting, analyzing, and sharing data related to food system sustainability. By identifying key indicators and standardizing data collection methods, the database can support evidence-based policymaking and facilitate cross-country comparisons.

 

Network members, 13 people, in a group in front of Estonian business school entrance, on stone stairs.
The kick-off meeting of the network was held in Tallinn by Estonian Business School in April 2024. In the picture from up left: Mickey Gjerris, Gunnar Vittersø, Jarkko Niemi, Asmus Gamdrup Jensen, Cristián Alarcón Ferrari, Silvia Gaiani, Aleksandra Kekkonen, Niveditha Prabakaran, Elisabeth Skarðhamar Olsen, Katriina Heinola, Sabrina Kuraj, Johanna Bergman Lodin, and Iida Alasentie. Photo: private

Today’s Nordic-Baltic food systems are widely recognized as unsustainable, both from ecological and socioeconomic perspectives. Despite the region’s reputation for innovation and environmental awareness, multiple structural challenges continue to undermine the resilience and long-term viability of its food systems. These challenges are complex and interconnected. Nordic and Baltic countries are experiencing a paradoxical situation in which food poverty coexists with rising levels of overweight and obesity, where intensive agricultural practices have led to significant biodiversity loss and environmental degradation and where global disruptions can quickly destabilize supply chains.

In response to these multifaceted challenges, there is a clear and urgent need to establish sustainable food systems across the Nordic-Baltic region.
Building on insights gained from previous research initiatives, as for example the NKJ project The role of Nordic research in the transition to sustainable agro-marine food systems, the network has adopted a multidisciplinary approach which recognizes that no single discipline can address the complexity of food systems transformation and that collaboration across fields is essential.

Through a combination of research, collaboration, and communication, the network has laid out the groundwork for meaningful and lasting change.

Posted on

Nordic Data Experts Join Forces for Climate-Resilient Agriculture

Climate change demands more resilient crops, which can withstand drought and emerging diseases. The Nordic-Baltic Plant Phenotyping Network (NBPPN) brings together researchers, data experts, and breeding partners to turn plant data into smarter, more resilient agriculture for the Nordic region.
 
 
Plant phenotyping is about understanding how plants actually perform, in the field and under stress. For example, which wheat varieties cope best with drought in Denmark? Which barley lines tolerate cold Nordic springs in Sweden? And how do oats perform under fluctuating light conditions in Finland? To answer questions like these, researchers measure plant growth, development, and stress responses using field trials, drones, and controlled environment facilities.
 
Across the Nordic and Baltic countries, there is large amounts of data generated from these experiments.
 
“The challenge is not collecting data anymore, but organizing it properly, sharing it, and making sure it can be reused. When data are stored in different formats or without proper documentation, they are difficult to combine and learn from”, writes the Nordic-Baltic Plant Phenotyping Network (NBPPN).
 
Therefore, the NBPPN brings together researchers and infrastructures across the region to address this issue. Through the annual symposium, the network create a platform where scientists, breeders, and funding bodies meet, present results, and start new collaborations. The discussions range from practical field phenotyping to digital tools and breeding strategies, always with a focus on improving crops for Nordic conditions.
 
In addition to the symposium, the network organise hands-on workshops where participants work directly with real plant data from field trials and controlled-environment experiments. The goal is practical: how to structure data clearly, document experiments properly, and make results understandable and reusable across institutions and countries.
 
When data from Finland, Sweden, Denmark or the Baltic countries can be compared and combined, we gain a stronger evidence base for selecting crop varieties that perform well under different climate conditions. Breeding programmes can make more informed decisions. Researchers can avoid repeating experiments unnecessarily. Public research funding is used more efficiently.
 
In practical terms, this means that farmers and breeders gain access to better knowledge when selecting crop varieties suited for Nordic conditions, whether that means drought tolerance in Denmark or cold resilience in Finland.

 

Contact:
Prof Svend Christensen,

Posted on

Mapping of threats will make currant and gooseberry production sustainable and profitable

Pests and diseases can significantly reduce currant and gooseberry yield. Mapping of the threats will guide future research efforts.

 

Very close-up photo of a larva in a piece of organic material. Brown, almost transparent in color.
A larva of the currant clearwing moth, Synanthedon tipuliformis, feeding inside a blackcurrant twig, causing severe damage to the plant, Buskerud fylke, Norway, May 4, 2021. This is one of several widespread pests on currant within the region. Photo: Line Beate Lersveen

A network of researchers and advisors in the seven Nordic and Baltic countries are creating a summary of the present pest, disease and mitigation situation to guide future research efforts in currants and gooseberries (Ribes spp.) production.

– There are many reasons to try to maintain the cultivation of Ribes berries in all countries where it is possible. They are rich in vitamins and antioxidants, and there are not many crops with these properties that can be cultivated so far north. Therefore, it is also important for preparedness reasons to maintain the area and expertise. It is also important to try to promote cultivation with as little environmental impact (chemical pesticides) as possible, and in this regard, many growers in our countries are at the forefront, says Olle Anderbrant, coordinator of the researcher network “Developing Integrated Pest Management in Nordic currant production“.

The researchers have collected up to date information about the most urgent needs for research when it comes to plant protection. An inventory of major pests and diseases in each country has been made based on published and previously unpublished information. These data form the background for a summary of the situation within the region as a whole and will point out research fields to prioritize in the future.

They have also taken previous and expected climatic changes into account and looked into possible changes of pest control regulations.

Collaboration between countries with similar environment and pests and diseases enables sharing ideas, resources and finally production of successful research proposals focusing on berry crops that have received less attention compared to strawberry and raspberry. By collaboration between countries, it should be easier to produce successful research proposals.

In the northern agricultural EU region, i.e., the Nordic and Baltic countries, currant and gooseberry production has a long tradition. Due to various economic and regulatory conditions these berries are nowadays mainly produced in the countries east of the Baltic Sea.

The network will continue exchanging information to the benefit of berry production and crop improvement in northern Europe. The project members have participated in various scientific and outreach meetings and presented the network and its ambitions.

Posted on

New network strives to improve Nordic field trial statistics

Experts gather in a new network to improve the quality of Nordic field trials. The network is now seeking more members.

 

The new network will meet for the first time in April this year. At the meeting, members will introduce themselves and take the first steps toward knowledge sharing and discussions aimed at improving field trials. Svend V Nielsen from the Danish Technological Institute is the initiator of the network and will give a presentation to the participants at the meeting.

– I think we are quite good at field trial statistics in the Nordics, but we may tend to stick to traditions and keep doing what we know works. I hope this network can inspire members to use statistics better suited to their research questions and rethink their practices, he says.

The group focuses on statistics, including the design and placement of field trials, handling deviations from the original plan, and statistical analysis of field trial data.

– The idea is that we address all types of questions related to the statistics of field trials. This will mainly involve design choices, plan deviations, and statistical analysis. For example, if someone is considering a nitrate leaching field trial, we won’t address the suction cup installation and mechanics, but we would naturally discuss how to adjust the trial design to fit the suction cup constraints, how to handle missing measurements, and how to include leaching in a statistical analysis.

The network hopes to inspire improvements in field trials. Hearing what others are doing can help identify blind spots and alternative approaches, according to Svend V. Nielsen. Other potential benefits could include inspiring research into the statistics of field trials or fostering collaboration among members.

The network welcomes new members and targets those who face statistical decisions in field trials – whether in industry or academia – and who want to discuss these topics.

– There isn’t a single fitting title for participants – it could be statisticians, researchers, study directors, etc. The network has just started, it’s free, and we’re looking for interested people.

CONTACT:
Please turn to Svend V Nielsen if you are interested in the network:
sven(a)teknologisk.dk
– he is happy to hear from all interested!

Posted on

Strong Nordic Engagement at the 4th Field Trial Conference

Field trial professionals and enthusiasts in the Nordic region had a real peak last week, at least if attending the 4th Nordic Field Trials Network (NFTN) Conference in Skejby last week.
 
 
Conference room in white, a bit dark-ish, female and male audience watching a photo on a wall, listening to female presenter.
Photo: Private

In total, there were 72 participants from 7 countries – Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland, Iceland, Latvia and Germany – representing more than 30 different organisations across research institutes, advisory services, field trial units, seed companies and technology providers.

“The broad mix of people and institutions made the conference exceptionally well attended and very valuable”, writes network coordinator Nicolai Fog Hansen in a mail after the conference.
 
The participants started off the conference with field visits to Danespo and Nordic Seed. That was a very strong and practical start to the programme.
 
Throughout the three days, there were a strong series of presentations and a lot of active discussion – both in the sessions and during the breaks, field visits and social events.
 
“Many of the participants commented on how useful it was to meet colleagues from other countries who work with similar practical challenges in field trials, and it was clear that the networking and informal conversations were just as important as the formal talks”, writes Nicolai Fog Hansen in his mail.
 
 
 
The network is currently preparing a new funding application to NKJ to continue and expand NFTN activities over the coming years. They already have agreements with Latvia (2027) and in Agriultural University of Iceland (2028) to host future NFTN conferences. More information will follow as plans and funding are confirmed – please stay tuned.
 
 
Posted on

NKJ co-funded research network strengthens knowledge on cover crops

Collaborations and shared insights across the Nordic countries are advancing understanding of how cover crops can improve soil health, reduce environmental impacts, and support climate change mitigation.

 

A group of people seen in a distans at a green field. Blue sky with clouds.
Physical meeting in Copenhagen, visiting field trials at KU. Photo: Ievina Sturite

Cover crops are widely used to reduce soil erosion and nitrate leaching, thereby improving water quality. Research has also shown that they can increase soil organic carbon stocks, enhance soil health, and contribute to net CO₂ sequestration in soils, supporting climate change mitigation efforts.

The Nordic research network CoverCropsNordic was established to strengthen synergies in research on cover cropping strategies for a more sustainable agriculture and food sector in the Nordic region. By bringing together expertise from multiple countries, the network has improved the shared understanding of both trade-offs and synergies linked to the many impacts of cover crops, while also laying the groundwork for future joint activities and research projects.

Recent research initiatives in Denmark, Norway, and Sweden – including CatCap in Denmark, CAPTURE and CropDrive in Norway, and several long- and short-term experiments in Sweden – have provided valuable insights into similarities and differences in cover crop performance across Nordic climate zones, soils, and cropping systems. These comparisons have enabled discussions on key trade-offs and synergies, such as crop yield levels and stability, nutrient replacement and legacy effects, nutrient leaching, erosion control, and climate impacts.

To share knowledge and identify remaining challenges, the network organised a series of digital webinars that brought together researchers and stakeholders from across the Nordic region. A physical meeting in Copenhagen further highlighted the importance of combining new scientific knowledge with practical experience to maximise the positive effects of cover cropping.

The network also organised a PhD course at SLU, bringing together 20 doctoral students and demonstrating strong interest in advancing research-based solutions for climate change mitigation in Nordic agriculture.

The adoption of cover crops has already resulted in improved soil health, increased biodiversity, and other climate-related benefits. The network’s joint synthesis of knowledge will be published in a review paper on cover crops in the Nordic countries. This publication will provide a solid foundation for recommendations on optimal cover crop strategies, supporting both environmental regulations and farmers’ practices across the Nordic region.

Find the network and contact information here!

Posted on

Engaging young people in the food culture brings Nordic food heritage to life

Classic Nordic food in a sustainable way – how do we bring our heritage into the future? The project “UWC Red Cross Nordic: Building a New Nordic Food and Sustainability Program” targets young people in order to achieve its goals.

 

One aim of the project, which was funded by NKJ via the steering group for New Nordic Food, was to change the culinary profile of school meals into a Nordic and sustainable profile.

White woman in half figure, smiling at the camera. Artistic blue background.
Judith Kyst, coordinator of the project and director at Madkulturen in Denmark. Photo: Madkulturen

– It was very much about food culture, and about bringing Nordic food culture to the next generation. And inspiring each other by visiting one another’s food cultures, says Judith Kyst, coordinator of the project and director at Madkulturen in Denmark.

The project worked with the staff who planned and prepared the food by offering an inspiration course, an exchange trip, and by mapping resources in the form of kitchen equipment and an inventory of local, seasonal foods and wild edible plants in the surrounding area. But it was not enough to involve only the staff who prepared the food. The project also aimed to reach those who eat the food. They were given the opportunity to learn about, collect and harvest, prepare, taste, and reflect on the food.

– It should not just be food served; we wanted to involve young people in food culture. They were able to gather from nature and take part in preserving and working with the food. Nordic food culture is not just about raw materials, it is also about methods.

– Young people with a different ethnic background can also use food as a tool for integration. They cook food from their own culture, but using local ingredients.

– Today, when the world is so divided, we must not forget our shared Nordic roots. And if there is something that can unite us, it is food. The raw ingredients can be very different. It is more about our values around food, what the Nordic food manifesto stands for – that is what we have in common.

The result of the project has been young people with a newly awakened and deepened interest in food.

– They are very enthusiastic; they are still talking about it! It is about giving food life and developing a relationship with food. There are many perspectives involved in being part of preparing the food yourself.

Hopefully, the young people who have participated in the project’s activities will carry a sense of and an interest in food culture with them into their lives.

Posted on

Transnational learning on indigenous peoples law

Land use, indigenous rights, and the application of national and international law were key issues discussed at a Nordic seminar at Luleå University of Technology.
 
 
The Nordic Network of Researchers in Sami and Indigenous Peoples Law (NORSIL) has now launched its first activity within the newly funded project period 2025–2027.

From 19–20 November 2025, the network gathered at Luleå University of Technology, Sweden, for a two-day seminar focusing on the theme “Transnational Comparison and Learning – Current Cases, Legal Reforms, Strategies/Policies, and Research Findings”.
 
During the seminar, participants explored key issues related to land use, indigenous rights, and the application of national and international law across Norway, Sweden, and Finland. The event marked the starting point for renewed collaboration, knowledge exchange, and comparative legal perspectives within the Nordic region.
 
The continuation of NORSIL for 2025–2027 is funded by the Nordic Joint Committee for Agriculture and Food Research (NKJ) through the Nordic Reindeer Committee, enabling strengthened cooperation among researchers to benefit reindeer husbandry in the Nordic region.
 
A representative from our Secretariat participated in the seminar, contributing to discussions and engaging with the network’s ongoing and future work.
 
 
Posted on

Online matchmaking event and information webinar

NKJ has an open call for networks in agriculture and food. We want as many nordic researchers as possible to exchange knowledge, therefore we arrange a matchmaking event for you to find new colleagues, to elaborate your scientific project further and to get inspired.

 

When: December 16 2025, 13.30–16.00 CET
Where: Online via Zoom, link will be sent out in advance of the meeting
Registration: Application form (Deadline: Dec 11th)

 

Welcome to join our online matchmaking event, to find out more about how to apply for funds from Nordic Agri Research (NKJ), hear from an ongoing network how they use their collaboration platform, and connect with other researchers who are looking for collaboration opportunities!

You will be inspired by an ongoing research network who will talk about what type of activities they have done, what they have achieved so far and how they have benefitted from collaborating in the Nordic region. NKJ will also inform you about the current open call that can fund your future networking activities.

AGENDA
13.30 Welcome and presentations
13.50 How to apply for funds from NKJ – tips and tricks
14.10 Inspiration talk from an ongoing Nordic research network
              Nicolai Fog Hansen, Nordic Field Trial Network
14.30 Networking workshop with Malin von Essen
16.00 Finish

CONTACT
If you have any questions, send an email to