Conferences

The Food System Science Network (FoSSNet) will organize a series of three interlinked conferences over the next three years, with an additional event in Warsaw focused on expanding the network in Eastern Europe. Each conference in the main series will build upon the outcomes of the previous one, creating a cohesive and comprehensive dialogue on the development and implementation of food system science. This progressive approach is designed to support a robust and evolving discussion that meets the needs of various stakeholders, from policymakers to early career researchers (ECRs), and ultimately contributes to achieving the project’s objectives.

Conference Series Overview

1st Conference – Oxford, 25-27 March 2025
Theme: Food Systems Conceptual Issues (by invitation only)

Oxford will set the stage by defining a common language and conceptual framework, exploring foundational issues in food systems science and establishing the groundwork for FoSSNet. A social network analysis will be conducted to understand the nature of the FSS Network itself, guiding future interactions and network dynamics

2nd Conference – Lund, 2026
Theme: Operationalizing Concepts in Food System Science

The Lund conference will build on Oxford’s foundations, focusing on how to operationalize food system science concepts in practice. Diverse research approaches will be highlighted, and the conference will emphasize developing practical capabilities and tools to drive food system transformation.

3rd Conference – Brussels, 2027
Theme: Policy and Practice Recommendations

Culminating in Brussels, the final conference will translate the insights from Oxford and Lund into actionable recommendations for policymakers and stakeholders. The Brussels event will serve as a platform for discussing policy applications and fostering collaborations across sectors.

Additional Event in Warsaw

In addition to the main conference series, FoSSNet will host an event in Warsaw aimed at expanding the network across Eastern Europe. This gathering will bring together regional stakeholders, fostering collaboration and ensuring that FoSSNet’s mission and resources reach a broader audience.

Key Focus Areas Throughout the Series

• Early Career Researchers Development: Each conference will feature sessions dedicated to supporting the growth and career development of ECRs in food system science, providing them with networking opportunities, mentorship, and skills-building sessions.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Each conference will engage a tailored group of stakeholders—academics at the Oxford conference, industry practitioners and civil society representatives in Lund, and policymakers in Brussels—ensuring that discussions are relevant to each group’s needs and contributions.
• Social Network Analysis: The network analysis conducted at each stage will help shape and refine the Food System Science Network, ensuring discussions remain reflective of the field’s evolving landscape.

The FoSSNet Conference Series on Food System Science aims to create a dynamic, evolving dialogue that addresses the complexities of food systems. By establishing a strong foundation in Oxford, exploring diverse approaches for operationalizing concepts in Lund, and delivering actionable recommendations in Brussels, FoSSNet will make a meaningful contribution to advancing food system science and its impact on policy and practice. Further details, including specific topics, will be shared as each conference approaches.