Invitation: Call for applications to participate

“Future challenges and solutions for sustainable food systems”

FutureFoodS together with the Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana and the Jožef Stefan Institute, invites applications to participate in the FutureFoodS Autumn School 2025.

This three-day immersive programme brings together 15 early-career professionals, researchers, and students to explore future challenges and innovative solutions for sustainable food systems. Participants will engage in expert talks, hands-on teamwork, and site visits, while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of Ljubljana.

Who Can Apply

The Autumn School is open to early-career attendees (up to 5 years after their most recent degree) who are residents of a FutureFoodS member country and are active in food systems beyond the farm gate.
Eligible participants include:

• Students and researchers (MSc, PhD, postdocs)

• Industry professionals (R&D, innovation, consulting, engineering)

• Policy and public sector representatives (local, national, international)

• NGOs or civil society actors (advocacy, outreach, development)

Programme Highlights

Participants will take part in an inspiring and practice-oriented programme featuring:

• Interactive Expert Talks
  Covering topics such as protein diversification, food waste valorisation, consumer behaviour, and innovative product development.

• FutureFoodS Hackathon
  A multi-day challenge where teams design solutions to real-world problems and pitch their ideas to a jury.

• Industry & Site Visits
  Visits to a local plant-based food producer and a university micro-plant to experience sustainable practices first-hand.

• High-Level Round Table
  A closing discussion with policymakers, industry experts, and academics on the transition towards sustainable food systems.

Programme Overview

Day 1 – Foundations & Problem Framing
Welcome session and keynotes on the transition to sustainable food systems, followed by team discussions.

Day 2 – Innovation & the Hackathon
Hackathon launch, mentoring, and a visit to the university’s micro-plant. Group dinner in the evening.

Day 3 – Application & Synthesis
Visit to a local food company, final hackathon pitches, and a moderated round table on sustainable transitions.

Benefits of Participation

Selected participants will enjoy:

• Free participation in the Autumn School

• Covered expenses for travel, accommodation, and meals

• Access to expert talks and mentoring

• Hands-on innovation through the Hackathon

• Networking with peers and professionals across Europe

• The opportunity to explore the beautiful city of Ljubljana

Application Requirements

Applicants must submit the following via the online application form by 23 October 2025:

1. Short CV (max. 1 page)

2. Letter of reference (from academic supervisor or employer)

3. Motivation letter (max. 2 pages) explaining:

   • Why you wish to attend

   • Your current work or research focus

   • What you hope to gain and contribute

   • How the Autumn School fits your academic/professional goals

📎 Apply here: https://1ka.arnes.si/FutureFoodsSchool

Key Dates

• Application deadline: 23 October 2025

• Notification of acceptance: 26 October 2025

• Autumn School: 19–21 November 2025
  (Travel days: 18 & 22 November 2025)

Don’t miss this opportunity to learn, connect, and innovate with peers from across Europe working towards the transformation of our food systems!