Invitation-only

Food Systems Science: Establishing a Common Framework and Network

First European Food Systems Science Conference

Dates: 12.00 Tuesday 25th –  13.00 Thursday 27th March 2025
Location: St Anne’s College, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
Audience: Researchers, policymakers, industry practitioners, early-career researchers, academic institutions.

 

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Overview of the FoSSNet Conference Series

The Food System Science Network (FoSSNet) is launching a groundbreaking, three-part conference series aimed at advancing Food System Science (FSS) in Europe over the next three years. Each conference builds on the last to foster a progressive dialogue and actionable recommendations for stakeholders across academia, industry, civil society and policy.

The series begins with this inaugural conference in Oxford (2025), continues with practical capability building in Lund (2026), and culminates in Brussels (2027) with actionable policy outcomes and a roadmap for establishing a sustainable network organisation.

The audience consists of the EU-funded FoSSNet consortium which brings together leading scholars, with invited scholars and stakeholders in the field of science.

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About the Oxford 2025 Conference

The Oxford conference sets the foundation for the series by creating a shared language, conceptual framework, and research priorities that will guide future work and collaboration in food systems science. Through a mix of plenaries, collaborative workshops, and breakout sessions, attendees will contribute to building the necessary frameworks and establishing a European Food System Science Network.

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Conference Objectives

  • Define Core FSS Concepts and Frameworks: Establish a shared understanding of key terms, models, and objectives within food systems science. 
  • Assess the State of Food System Science in Europe: Present recent findings, map out current research and networks, and discuss priorities for the field.   

 

  • Bridge Science and Practice: Facilitate dialogue on how food systems science can drive meaningful transformation across sectors. 
  • Engage Early-Career Researchers (ECRs): Involve emerging scholars as active contributors to conference goals through collaborative sessions that integrate fresh perspectives in food systems science.

Sessions’ Highlights 

Opening Plenary – Emergence of a science field: towards a unifying food systems framework? 
In the context of networks, it’s better to view the rapid growth of frameworks as a sign of a vibrant and productive discourse within this emerging scientific field. At FoSSnet, we will develop our own framework as a foundation for network growth, while recognizing that it is not intended to unify the entire field.

Breakout Session – Refining the Framework
Work in breakout groups to collaboratively discuss and refine the proposed conceptual framework, which will serve as the foundation for future conferences. 

European Food Systems Science Landscape
Plenary presentations and breakout sessions on the state of food systems science in Europe. Participants will engage with recent mappings of academic, research, and policy networks to explore how food systems science is currently applied. 

Building the FoSSNet Network
Through a mix of keynote talks, roundtable discussions, and small-group workshops, attendees will discuss the creation of a European network for food systems science, focusing on functions of the network and stakeholder roles. 

Early-Career Researchers’ Contributions
A dedicated session for Early-Career Researchers (ECRs) to actively share insights and innovative ideas in food systems science. ECRs will have a unique platform to contribute directly to core conference goals, collaborate with peers, and engage in meaningful discussions with established experts.

Expected Outcomes 

  • A collaboratively refined framework for food systems science. 
  • A comprehensive map of food system science research, policy, and education initiatives across Europe. 
  • Strategic insights on functions of the FoSSNet that stakeholders value and on actions for building the European Food System Science Network. 
  • Recommendations and guidance for future research and policy priorities in food systems science. 

 

 

 

Why you should attend

This conference is ideal for: 

  • Scientists in academia, industry, publishing, civil society and policy: Contribute to foundational frameworks, discuss priorities in research & innovation and education, and expand your network. 
  • Industry Practitioners: Discover how food systems science can drive impactful change in industry and participate in shaping collaborative efforts in transitioning towards sustainable and resilient food system. 
  • Policymakers: Engage with emerging science, connect with experts, and explore how food system science can inform policy solutions. 
  • Network convenors: Connect to other relevant networks in the food and sustainability domain and help establish a network of networks. 
  • Early-Career Researchers: Gain insight into career opportunities in academia, industry and beyond, build essential skills, and connect with leading scholars in the field. 

Additional information:

Registration: This invitation-only conference requires registration. Please register using the link below, and contact us with any questions regarding attendance.

Accommodation & Logistics: Details will be provided for confirmed attendees. 

Broadcasting: Select sessions will be available for virtual attendance.