Summer School “Bridging the gap – Connecting traditional and digital research approaches in agriculture” in Leipzig

Leipzig University invites PhD students and Early Career Researchers to participate in this Arqus Summer School from 25 to 29 August 2025.

The winegrowing and agricultural industry is currently facing several significant challenges that impact not only farmers but entire sector. One of the most pressing issues is climate change, which has led to rising temperatures and altered weather patterns. Sustainable practices and digital transformation are essential to ensure long-term viability. Lastly, the industry is grappling with a skilled labour shortage. Finding qualified personnel in rural areas is increasingly difficult. Addressing these challenges will require creative solutions and adaptive strategies to secure the future of agriculture and viticulture. 

The Smart Farming Lab is thrilled to invite Early Career Researchers from Arqus universities to participate in an interdisciplinary summer school hosted at Leipzig University. The programme will discuss current challenges in the field of agriculture with a focus on viticulture. It includes a wide range of research approaches from data management, remote sensing, robotics as well as plant physiology/ecophysiology and micrometeorology applied to crops in heterogenic growth environments and infrastructural conditions. As special emphasis lies on the effects of climate change, carbon balance, flora induction and bud fertility.

The main goal of the summer school is to foster collaborative learning and the exchange of experiences in the respective research fields. The interactive programme includes workshops, idea pitches and field trips in the region. Early Career Researchers can seize the opportunity to present, discuss their work in a supportive and international scientific community and enjoy the city of Leipzig – a vibrant and exciting place full of music, culture and creativity. 

This Summer School is open to PhD students and Early Career Researchers from all academic disciplines, enrolled or employed at one of the Arqus Alliance universities. The application deadline is 20 May 2025.