AgrifoodTECH · AgrifoodTECH: Seeding a brighter future for EU key sectors.

The EU is the world's largest food producer, but climate change, loss of biodiversity and scarcity of resources, among others, put food security at risk. It is necessary to boost and promote technologies in the agri-food sector that lead to a more sustainable production model adapted to climate change and thus reduce dependence on imports in an unstable geopolitical scenario. The AgrifoodTECH program, led by the Polytechnic University of Cartagena (UPCT), is designed to equip 16 postdoctoral researchers with the skills necessary to lead advancements in the agri-food technology sector, central to the Agriculture 4.0 revolution. This interdisciplinary training program encompasses 10 crucial knowledge areas addressing future agricultural challenges and integrates international and intersectoral experiences through collaborations with 14 associated entities for secondments. UPCT is a member of the European University of Technology (EUt+) and has been recognised by the EC HRS4R distinction for its positive and stimulating environment for researchers. UPCT is located in the Region of Murcia (Spain), where the agri-food sector is considered strategic and its digital transformation a priority in its RIS4Mur. AgrifoodTECH is poised to establish a pioneering postdoctoral program recognized internationally for its research excellence. This initiative aims to position both the University and the Region of Murcia at the forefront of agricultural innovation in the 21st century. Furthermore, it seeks to lay the groundwork for founding the first European Research Institute (ERI) dedicated to agri-food technology, spearheaded by UPCT. This endeavor will be bolstered by the contributions of postdocs trained under the AgrifoodTECH banner, ensuring a strong foundation for groundbreaking research and development in the sector.