The colloquium “Challenges in Plant Sciences” is a core class of the Zurich-Basel Plant Science Center's PhD program. The colloquium introduces participants to the broad spectrum of plant sciences within the network. The course offers the opportunity to approach interdisciplinary topics in the field of plant sciences.

This lecture with integrated exercises and farm visit introduces the factors, processes and interactions that control the functioning of temperate and tropical agroecosystems. Students will be guided to critically examine agricultural practices and management strategies to increase resource use efficiency, while minimizing negative impacts on the environment and ensuring socio-economic viability.