Category: News

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Nine new networks will work for Nordic benefit

Nine new research networks will work towards Nordic benefits and progress in agriculture and food over the next two years, supported by NKJ. The NKJ board has now decided which networks will receive funding after the latest call for proposals.

 

 

The number of applications was high, and they were well-written with important focus areas, making the selection process challenging. The board had a demanding task in balancing the budget. In the end, nine networks were granted funding for their upcoming collaboration.

See the list below for a brief overview of what the networks will be working on!

Nordic network for food control research
The long-term aim of the network is to increase the science-based knowledge in food control, which will ultimately benefit consumer safety and fair treatment of food businesses. This will be achieved by facilitating food control research across disciplines, initiating research collaboration resulting in international research funding applications and increasing transdisciplinary collaboration between academia, food control authorities and food businesses.
Nordic Alternative Protein Knowledge and Innovation Network (NAPKIN)
The NAPKIN network wants to position Iceland, Finland, Denmark, Sweden and Norway as key actors in protein transition, which leads to economic growth as well as increased health and well-being of the people and the planet. The aim is to establish a viable Nordic network of researchers and stakeholders, fostering the exchange of ideas and knowledge, and facilitating joint funding applications at both the Nordic and EU levels, to address knowledge/research gaps collaboratively and strengthen the region’s common capabilities.
Fimbulwinter wheat – creating a team with a plan to adapt winter wheat for difficult winters
The long-term aim of the network is to deepen understanding of important traits for increased stability of winter wheat cultivation in the Nordic and Baltic countries.
Network for Nordic Landrace Sheep Wool (NordWool)
The long-term aim of the network is to enhance sustainable use of Nordic sheep breeds, emphasizing wool quality to balance the current focus on meat production. By promoting the often-overlooked role of wool, the project contributes to a more holistic utilization of these genetic resources. T
Nordic berry research network
The long-term aim is to establish a research forum for the mutual exchange of knowledge across a wide range of issues and challenges related to both wild and cultivated berries. This approach will enable the identification and utilization of synergies between existing resources while fostering the creation of new ones.
Cultivated muscle-cell based food (CMBFood)
The network gathers a diverse group of stakeholders (including scientists working with all aspects of cultivated meat), to support a holistic exchange of ideas and knowledge, and joint applications for research in cultivated muscle-cell based food, with special focus on the end-product, in the Nordic countries.
Healthy udders through a herd health perspective
The long-term aim of the network is to enhance health, welfare and milk quality of dairy cattle as the basis for long-term sustainability of dairy farms in the Nordic countries. Furthermore, this collaborative network aims to enhance competitiveness and profitability of the Nordic dairy production and safe dairy products for the consumers.
NORDIC-BALTIC Research Network on Organic Food and Farming
The network will arrange a scientific in-person conference directed towards the Nordic-Baltic organic research, and relevant stakeholder, community. The aim of the conference is to share and discuss recent research outcomes within organic food and farming and its societal interactions – dialogue and cooperation between stakeholders are necessary for implementation of research.
Understanding plastic pollution in agrifood systems to protect agriculture and health: The AGRIFOODPLAST Network
The network will strengthen the Nordics’ role in shaping EU policies on soil protection and food safety regarding plastic and chemical additive pollution, drive innovation in Nordic and EU research agendas, coordinate Nordic research efforts and integrate plastic pollution into broader agricultural sustainability analyses.

 

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OPEN CALL for networks in reindeer husbandry: apply by March 28, 2025

Nordic Agri Research (NKJ) invites researchers to apply for funding to establish networks in reindeer husbandry for the period 2025–2027.

 

With this call NKJ aims to strengthen Nordic collaboration and promote knowledge exchange across national borders through workshops, conferences, and seminars. Transdisciplinary networks connecting researchers and stakeholders are especially encouraged.

Funding details and requirements
Approved networks may receive up to 300,000 SEK from NKJ, covering up to 50% of the total network budget. To qualify, networks must include participants from at least three countries and three research institutions in the Nordic region. Networks must also emphasize gender balance, with a minimum of 40% representation from each gender. NKJ also welcomes persons of other genders to apply. The networks also have to actively involve PhD students and early-career researchers.

Key focus areas
Reindeer husbandry is a cornerstone of the Nordic Arctic economy, Sami culture, and regional bioeconomy. However, it faces critical challenges due to climate change, land-use changes, and increasing predation pressure. Networks focusing on these challenges will be prioritized. Networks addressing other aspects of reindeer husbandry are also welcome to apply.

Expected outcomes
Funded networks are expected to contribute to the Nordic community by, for example:

  • Facilitating knowledge exchange through events and publications
  • Producing policy recommendations and research applications
  • Supporting the development of tools such as databases or communication platforms

Application process
Applications must be submitted via the NKJ website by March 28, 2025, at 24:00 CET. A detailed application form, including a description of aims, activities, participants, and budget, is required. Funding decisions will be announced in April 2025.

Application form (deadline March 28, 2025)

Call text

 

CONTACT
For more details and to access the application form, visit the NKJ website or contact the NKJ secretariat at .

 

About NKJ
NKJ is a Nordic collaboration body under the Nordic Council of Ministers. Its mission is to promote knowledge-based agriculture and food research, including reindeer husbandry, across the Nordic countries.

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Hack the future of sustainability: Join the Nordic-Baltic bioeconomy hackathon

In the face of climate change, the Nordic Council of Ministers is promoting the bioeconomy as a meaningful career path to drive environmental sustainability. To support this goal, we are hosting a hackathon where university students from the Nordic and Baltic region will collaborate in teams to tackle real-world challenges in the bioeconomy.

APPLY HERE

 

We are excited to offer your students the opportunity to participate in an in-person Hackathon focused on developing innovative ideas for the bioeconomy. ​

This Hackathon brings together students from the Nordic and Baltic region who share an interest in sustainability, agriculture, forestry, and marine ecosystems. Participants will collaborate in teams to tackle real-world challenges in these fields, guided by expert coaches from the industry. This hands-on experience will deepen their understanding of key issues and equip them with practical problem-solving skills.

Join the Hackathon to be part of the solution to some of the world’s most pressing challenges, including climate change, biodiversity loss, and unsustainable food systems. By participating, you’ll collaborate with other students from the Nordic and Baltic regions to tackle real-world bioeconomy challenges, contributing directly to the green transition. 

This Hackathon is part of the Nordic Council of Ministers’ Bioeconomy program, driven by Nordic Forest Research (SNS) and the Nordic Joint Committee for Agricultural and Food Research (NKJ). It’s an opportunity to gain hands-on experience, connect with like-minded peers, and make a meaningful impact in shaping a sustainable future for rural areas. 

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About the Hackathon​

  • Teamwork: You’ll work in teams of four. You can apply individually or with a team, but team selection is not guaranteed for all applicants. If your full team is not selected, you’ll have the chance to join a team with other students.​
  • Challenge Areas: Teams will work on challenges related to agriculture, forestry, or marine ecosystems.​
  • Virtual Kick-Off: A virtual session will be held about a month before the event to introduce teams, kick off the Bioeconomy Hackathon, and begin formulating challenges.​
  • Timeline: Teams will have time to do preparatory work on their challenges from the kick-off until the Hackathon, which will be held on May 27–28 at the Bioeconomy Campus in Saarijärvi, Finland.​
  • Event Highlights: During the Hackathon, you’ll pitch your solutions during coaching sessions with industry experts and refine your ideas. The event concludes with a final pitching session to a jury. Price for the winning teams will be announced in a later stage.
    ​
     

You are 

  • Having an interest in sustainability, agriculture, forestry, or marine ecosystems. 
  • A university student in the Nordic and Baltic region, studying computer science, engineering, agriculture, forestry, marine sciences, bioenergy, environmental studies, or a related field. 

Practical Information​

  • Travel arrangements will ensure arrival the day before and departure the day after the event (subject to change).​
  • Meals will be provided, offering opportunities to network with fellow students, mentors and industry professionals.​
  • Participants will be selected based on geographic and educational background, gender diversity and motivation.
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Application Details​

  • Students are accepted on a rolling basis, so apply early to secure your spot! Applications close at 28 February, but seats are limited. ​
  • Selected participants will receive additional practical information.​
  • Submit your application via the link in the form.​

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Don’t miss this chance to contribute to a sustainable future while gaining valuable experience and networking opportunities!​

Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have questions to ​

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About AgriVenture Finland​

  • An event where 500 participants is expected, and a change to explore the latest innovations in sustainable food production, connect with leading companies in the field. Listen to inspiring keynotes and startup pitches and build meaningful networks.​
  • Read more about the Agriventure​

About the Organizers​

  • The Hackathon is hosted and organized by JAMK with support from The Nordic Joint Committee for Agricultural and Food Research (NKJ), Nordic Forest Research (SNS) and Nordic Testbed Network.​
  • The Hackathon is funded by the Bioeconomy program within the Nordic Council of Ministers.​
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Matchmaking for researchers in agriculture and food – and a funding opportunity

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 10 2024, 13.30–16.00 CET
Where: Online via Zoom, link will be sent out in advance of the meeting
Registration: Register by filling out the form. Registration closes at December 6, 17.00 CET.

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 a coordinator of an ongoing research network who will talk about what type of activities they have organised, 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, Ievina Sturite (NIBIO), CoverCropsNordic
14.30 Networking workshop with Malin von Essen
16.00 Finish


CONTACT
If you have any questions, send an email to 

 

 

 

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OPEN CALL 2025: Funding opportunity for agricultural and food researchers

NKJ now welcomes applications from researcher networks in all aspects of food and agriculture, as part of their 60-year anniversary in 2025. By this call, NKJ wants to promote Nordic and transdisciplinary collaboration.

 
Deadline for application: 31 januari 2025
Apply by filling in the application form below and sending it to  
 
The aim of the call is to promote Nordic collaboration between researchers from agricultural and food sectors by networking activities including workshops, conferences and seminars. Transdisciplinary networks between researchers and stakeholders are encouraged. This open call welcomes applicants from all fields of research within food and agriculture.
 
NKJ will host an online matchmaking event on December 10 2024 (information and registration here), where you will be able to connect with other researchers who are looking for collaboration opportunities. This event will also include information on the open call and an opportunity to ask questions.
 
It is also possible to find information on previously funded networks on NKJ’s website.
 

To have the chance to be granted, the network should include applicants from at least three Nordic countries. Each gender must be represented by a minimum of 40% of the participants in the network, and NKJ welcomes applicants and participants of other genders. Young researchers should be included in the network. 

Network outputs should be useful for the Nordic community and should include knowledge exchange across national borders through e.g. arranging workshops, seminars/webinars, scientific meetings or open conferences. The funding can be used to bring additional value to ongoing research projects through mentioned activities.

Successful applicants may receive funds from NKJ of up to 300.000 SEK for two years of network activities from April 2025 to March 2027, covering at most 50% of the total budget for the network. The total budget for the call is 2.000.000 SEK.

This call is open for applicants from all fields of research within food and agriculture!

Call text

Application form

NKJ strategy

Gender equality guidelines

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Join the Nordic-Baltic Food Systems Conference and Policy Forum

The conference “Challenging Intersections: Securing Sustainable Food Systems in Turbulent Times” will take place in Helsinki, Finland, 26-27.5.2025. Please save the dates, registration opens February 1, 2025!

 

Food systems face multiple and by large, intertwined challenges. Climate change, biodiversity loss and pollution call for immediate actions across the food system, from the fields to the plates. At the same time the geopolitical turbulences have raised food security concerns to the political agendas of the European states and the European Union. The meaning of food for our wellbeing and health is unquestionable and calls for stronger appreciation across society and by the people.

Dealing with such complex problems is a challenge for both research, policy makers, and food system actors. The intertwined challenges cannot be solved by focusing on a single element of the food system, or by a specific sectoral policy or individual scientific discipline. The 1st Nordic-Baltic food systems conference and policy forum invites researchers, policy makers and food system actors to take stock on the challenges related to securing sustainability food systems, share experiences across the Nordic and Baltic countries and look for innovative solutions and future collaborations.

Please find information and more detailed programme of the conference and policy forum here.

The call for papers is open until 17th January 2025.

The scientific committee welcomes all interested researchers, policy makers and food system actors to join the transdisciplinary discussions. Please distribute the call widely in your networks!

You are also welcome to join the LinkedIn group of Nordic-Baltic Network of Transdisciplinary Food Systems Research (NFN), which we have just opened. The aim of the NFN is to foster collaboration amongst Nordic-Baltic researchers, food system actors and policy makers on transdisciplinary food systems research. The network is open to all interested.

 

On behalf of the Nordic-Baltic scientific committee,

Minna Kaljonen, chair of the scientific committee and the conference, research professor, Finnish Environment Institute

Juha Helenius, co-chair of scientific committee and food policy forum, professor, University of Helsinki

 

Contact

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NKJ network paves the way for sustainable Nordic food systems

An NKJ co-funded network has gathered experts to promote sustainable food systems both at local, national, and global levels. The result is twelve targeted intervention areas, described in a detailed white paper.

 

The network met in person three times during the two year partnership. The picture is from the final meeting and launch of the White Paper on Nordic Food Systems in Copenhagen in June 2024.
From the left: Bjørnar Komissar, Sabina Kuraj, Guðrún Ólafsdóttir, Gunnar Vittersø, Nína María Saviolidis, Iida Alasentie, Silvia Gaiani, E lisabeth S karðhamar Olsen, Robert VanOtterdijk, Michelle Williams and Anna Sofía Veyhe.
Photo: University of Helsinki

Addressing the twelve intervention areas might contribute to achieving a green, socially sustainable, and competitive Nordic region. The white paper, containing the intervention areas, represents the vision of all those who contributed to it and builds on data and evidence collected in existing reports and projects.

The aim was neither to duplicate what has already been written on the Nordic sustainable food system nor to present a list of “easy recipes” to promote a Nordic vision. Rather, it aimed to reflect on several topics and intervention actions that should be prioritised, as they are often neglected in the current literature.

Cooperation will be the way
In NKJ, we often say that the Nordic countries are stronger together. They share sustainability commitments and similar food system challenges. By realising their potential and exploring their options and opportunities for joint action, the Nordic countries are expected to engage in discussions with other countries worldwide and be a leading example.

No ranking
All intervention areas are equally urgent and should not be addressed in isolation, due to Silvia Gaiani, part of the network that wants to implement a holistic approach that underlines structural changes to reach a common Nordic vision.

– If one intervention area is prioritized, the risk is that some others might be delayed, she says.

For policy makers – and public
The paper is meant to be read by policy makers, but also the public. It raises awareness and allows actors to reflect on and make sense of their roles in promoting action on sustainable food system solutions.

– We hope it can create a space for communication and negotiation, encouraging synergies between actors from the various sectors which are searching for and implementing sustainable food systems approaches, says Silvia Gaiani.

She has a dream about the future, where the white paper can play a role:

– Above all I would like the Nordic countries to set examples and best practices and lead the way to the establishment of sustainable, future proof food systems.

The change is necessary
On the other hand, if nothing changes, she has worries for the future. She sees increased inequalities, fragmented food systems, power imbalances in the food supply chain, loss of biodiversity, increased health risks and non communicable diseases, and unethical consumerism.

New pathway to the future
NKJ is currently sponsoring a follow-up on the previous network, entitled ”A Nordic Baltic framework for Sustainable Food Systems”. Its aim is to create a theoretical framework which will lead to the development a database for Nordic and Baltic sustainable food systems. A consortium has been organized, with eight participating Nordic institutions, and will collaborate with experts and international organizations.

– We are truly committed to support a just and green transition of the Nordic food systems. We are on a mission to create the change we want to live in, says Silvia Gaiani.

Download the white paper

Read more about the ambitions and partners of the  network “The role of Nordic research in transition to sustainable agro-marine food systems” here!

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Join the webinar on sustainable food systems

Welcome to join a webinar on “Critical water and energy issues in the green transition of Nordic–Baltic food systems” September 26th 14.00- 16.00 (CET).

Join a conversation on the water-energy-food nexus. We will also explore current knowledge gaps regarding climate change adaption and how we can address them.

The webinar is free of charge and open for all interested.

Register (deadline Sept 24)


Agenda

14:00 Welcome to the webinar and presentation of the project A Nordic-Baltic framework for sustainable food systems which is funded by the Nordic Joint Committee for Agricultural and Food Research (NKJ).
Sofie Andersson, NKJ secretariat

14:10 Introduction of keynote speakers and theme for the webinar.
Cristián Alarcón Ferrari and Johanna Bergman Lodin, SLU, Sweden

14:15 Presentation Climate induced water insecurity and adaptation, what knowledges to assess and how
Martina Angela Caretta, docent, associate professor human geography department, Lund University, Sweden

14:50 Questions and answers (open for the audience) and feedback from invited experts and/or contributors  

15:05 Presentation The food-water-energy nexus in the Arctic region
David Natcher, professor in the department of agricultural and resource economics at the University of Saskatchewan (Canada).

15.15 Questions and answers

15:20 Open discussion with the project participants and audience (facilitated by miro board)

15:50-16:00 Summary and conclusions of the webinar and ways forward

 

The webinar is organized in the framework of a Nordic Baltic framework for sustainable food systems, sponsored by the Nordic Joint Committee for Food and Agricultural Research in Sweden.

 

The Nordic–Baltic Framework for Sustainable Food Systems
Building upon the necessity to urgently establish Nordic-Baltic sustainable food systems, this project is multidisciplinary and made up of several components; a database, webinars, the Innofood event, communication in social medias and a scientific article. The consortium, led by Ruralia Institute, University of Helsinki, covers all the major areas connected to sustainable food systems and is made up of eight partners:
• Ruralia Institute/University of Helsinki (UH)
• The Natural Resources Institute Finland (LUKE)
• Consumption Research Norway (OsloMet)
• University of Copenhagen (UC)
• Kost Studio (KS)
• University of Faroe Islands (UFI)
• Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU)
• Estonian Business School (EBS)

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Several factors can help young farmers diversify

To be able to support young people in diversifying their businesses and contributing to rural rejuvenation, we need to know how to do that. Therefore NKJ organized a workshop facilitating discussions among key stakeholders.

 

The workshop “On-farm diversification among young farmers in the Nordic/Baltic countries” gathered key stakeholders to contribute to policy recommendations for the Nordic Council of Ministers. Before the workshop there has been both a desk research and a literature review. The purpose is to understand the role and context of farm diversification and highlight challenges and policy recommendations to support young farm entrepreneurs.

Several challenges with farm diversification have been identified. Venturing into new areas requires acquiring new competences and skills. The main “farmer identity” might be challenged with a broader range of activities and income streams. Necessary investments can be costly, and loans can be difficult to obtain for young entrepreneurs. So, how to make it possible for young farmers to diversify their businesses?

The workshop participants mentioned both financial difficulties, legislative obstacles and lack of land for sale as factors to be considered. Proposals from the participants was to inspire young people to take loans together and to provide support for the development of model pilot farms and to develop the system for buying and selling land. They also saw the need to make agricultural entrepreneurship a more high-status job, and to use social media to spread awareness about food production. The need for platforms for knowledge exchange and networking seems to be big.

– The point of views from those inside the agricultural sector, knowing it inside-out, will influence what we pass on to the Nordic Council of Ministers. The workshop was a valuable contribution to our work.

– The participants pointed out that diversification of agricultural operations leads to an increased regulatory burden as the farmer needs to familiarize himself with additional regulations, for example if they diversify into food craft or restaurant operations. This is an important issue that we will highlight in the policy brief, says Maria Tunberg, Analysys Mason, project coordinator.

NKJ goes on with the work with the policy recommendations for the Nordic Council of Ministers, and will include the workshop results.

 

Literature indicates that a changing farming landscape in Nordic/Baltic countries comes with challenges:
• The farming sector is consolidating resulting in a declining number of farms
• Farm managers are aging and predominantly male; female successors less inclined to take over
• Low youth retention pose a problem for prosperity since young people are key for innovation and growth
• Social and cultural needs are not being met to the same extent in rural environments, further hampering youth retention
• Destructive norms and stereotypes regarding rural life are among key drivers for increased relocation among youth to urban areas

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SNS and NKJ add more power

NKJ and SNS secretariat has been reinforced with an administrator, Louise Berger. She will also act as a contact person for the networks financed by the organisations.
Scrolla ner för svensk text

 

In September, Louise Berger started working at NKJ and SNS joint secretariat. She will serve as an administrative support for the project managers, work on the annual reports, keep in touch with the researcher networks, hold some meetings and workshops and a lot of other things.

Louise has a degree as a horticultural engineer, and a bachelor’s degree in business administration. She has previously worked in the private sector with administration and logistics.

– It will be interesting to see more of the public sector and learn more about how it works, says Louise.

– It will also be exciting to see more of the Nordic context and the Nordic Council of Ministers.

Louise lives on a large crop farm with approximately 420 hectares located on one of Sweden’s best farmlands. With her new job at SNS and NKJ secretariat, she will touch more upon the forest sector.

– I have gained a newfound interest in forests, with the course I’ve already taken!

Otherwise, apple cultivation is a big interest of her’s, perhaps a few hectares on the farm could eventually become an apple farm?

– It would give a year-round perspective and seasonally fit in well with grain cultivation.

– I am very much looking forward to the job here at the secretariat!

 

Hobby: singing in a church choir. Jogging, pilates. Gardening. Apple cultivation.

 

Unexpected: has been singing in a choir behind Tommy Nilsson – three times

 

 

 

 

Swedish text

SNS och NKJ’s sekretariat har fått förstärkning med en administratör som heter Louise Berger. Hon kommer också att fungera som kontaktperson för de nätverk som vi finansierar.

 

I september började Louise Berger jobba på SNS och NKJ’s gemensamma sekretariat. Hon kommer att fungera som ett administrativt stöd för projektledarna, hålla i arbetet med årsrapporter, hålla kontakten med de nätverk som organisationerna finansierar, hålla i en del möten och workshops och en hel del annat.

Louise har en examen som trädgårdsingenjör, och dessutom en kandidatexamen i företagsekonomi. Hon har tidigare arbetat inom den privata sektorn med administration och logistik.

– Det ska bli roligt att få se mer av den offentliga sektorn och lära sig mer om hur den fungerar, säger Louise.

– Det ska också bli spännande att se mer av det nordiska sammanhanget och ministerrådet.

Louise bor på en stor växtodlingsgård med ungefär 420 hektar på en av Sveriges bästa åkermarker. I och med sitt nya arbete på SNS och NKJ’s sekretariat kommer hon att få mer kontakt med skogsnäringen.

– Jag har fått ett nyvunnet intresse i skog, i och med kursen som jag redan har gått!

Annars är det äppelodling som intresserar, kanske några hektar på gården kan bli en äppelodling så småningom?

– Det skulle ju ge ett helårsperspektiv och säsongsmässigt passa bra ihop med spannmålsodlingen.

– Jag ser jättemycket fram emot jobbet här på sekretariatet!

 

Hobby: sjunger i kyrkokör. Springer, tränar pilates. Trädgård. Äppelodling.

 

Oväntat: har körat bakom Tommy Nilsson tre gånger