In order to meet the future challenges of agriculture and nutrition, outstanding experts are needed who are able to manage the complexity of sustainable agriculture and nutrition and to exploit systemic effects. FiBL trains future players to meet these challenges. The Master Studio at FiBL in Frick is possible in the following departments:

Department of Soil Sciences

The soil plays a central role in organic farming. In long-term field trials and on farms, we are investigating the effects of organic and conventional farming systems on soil quality and on efficiency in terms of fertilizers and energy. The focus is on microbial communities, reduced tillage, use of beneficial organisms and improvement of nutrient cycles. We quantify greenhouse gas emissions from land use and derive climate-friendly measures.

The main areas of research are:

• Soil Fertility and Climate
• Nutrient Management and Symbioses
• Cultivation technique agriculture

Department of Crop Sciences

Using interdisciplinary and participatory approaches, we develop concepts to improve livestock management on organic farms. The combination of site-appropriate breeding, animal-friendly husbandry, efficient hygiene measures and adequate feeding strategies are of crucial importance. In the field of animal health, we research the causes of disease, preventive measures, and the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of complementary and alternative medicine. We apply the findings to herd management and holistic animal health concepts.

The main areas of research are:

• Animal breeding
• Animal welfare and animal husbandry
• Animal Nutrition and Animal Health

Department of Livestock Sciences

Using interdisciplinary and participatory approaches, we develop concepts to improve livestock management on organic farms. The combination of site-appropriate breeding, animal-friendly husbandry, efficient hygiene measures and adequate feeding strategies are of crucial importance. In the field of animal health, we research the causes of disease, preventive measures, and the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of complementary and alternative medicine. We apply the findings to herd management and holistic animal health concepts.

The main areas of research are:

• Animal breeding
• Animal welfare and animal husbandry
• Animal Nutrition and Animal Health

Department of Socioeconomic Sciences

We develop decision bases for the future challenges in ecological and sustainable agriculture and food production. How does agricultural policy affect organic farming and sustainability? What institutional developments are necessary to promote organic and sustainable farming systems? We use sales experiments with consumers, produce sustainability analyses and investigate reasons for innovation implementation and farm conversions among farmers.

The main areas of research are:

• Agricultural and Food Policy
• Consumption and Food
• Society and Innovation

Department of International Cooperation

We specialise in agricultural research and consulting for, with and in developing and emerging countries. The focus is on the promotion of poverty-relevant economic sectors and markets. Our task is to develop and promote sustainable agricultural and marketing systems with the aim of raising living standards sustainably and improving access to healthy, affordable food. We work closely with companies, local development organisations and/or authorities, thereby strengthening local partners in strategic and practical skills on the ground.

The main areas of research are:

• Tropical Agriculture and Agroforestry
• Market development and promotion of sustainable business ideas
• Policy and sector development