agrifoodtech.cofund@upct.es
AgrifoodTECH, MSCA-COFUND programme led by Universidad Politécnica de Cartagena (UPCT).
It is necessary to boost and promote technologies in the agri-food sector that leads to a more sustainable production model adapted to climate change and thus reduce dependence on imports in an unstable geopolitical scenario. The MSCA-COFUND AgrifoodTECH program, led by 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.
GOALS OF THE PROGRAMME
Excellent innovative scientific training for 16 postdoctoral researchers in the agri-food technology sector:
❏ Promoting an interdisciplinary, international and intersectoral postdoctoral training programme.
❏ Advance sustainable and digital transformation in agriculture through technology and innovation.
❏ Reduce dependency on imports and strengthen EU food security.
❏ Support the development of the Smart Specialisation Strategy of the Region of Murcia (RIS4Mur)
❏ Strengthen the professional development of researchers in the agri-food tech sector
TOPICS
❏ Soil, Water and Environmental Management
❏ Plant Science, Genetics and Biotechnology
❏ Agricultural Management, Production Systems and Policy
❏ Food Security and Preservation
❏ Energy and Smart Technologies (Agriculture 4.0)
WHAT YOU GET?
- Excellent working conditions aligned with EU standards. Competitive salary, mobility allowance, and full social protection
- Open, transparent and merit-based recruitment following the European Charter, Code of Conduct, and HRS4R principles.
- Inclusive and fair environment with gender equality actions, disability support, and assistance for researchers at risk.
- Comprehensive interdisciplinary training in precision agriculture, biotechnology, AI, sustainability, data science, and Open Science.
- Triple “I” approach. International, interdisciplinary, and intersectoral research experience through academic and industrial secondments.
- Personal Career Development Plan (PCDP) and continuous mentoring to support scientific and professional growth.
- Career-enhancing mobility and collaboration across international academic groups and non-academic entities.
- Scientific visibility and dissemination through open access publications, international conferences, and participation in EU networks.
- Public engagement and outreach via MSCA Researchers’ Night, Pint of Science, Women in Science, school visits, and media activities.
- Intellectual Property protection and innovation training, including Intellectual Property Result (IPR) management, patent support, and exploitation of research results.
HOST INSTITUTION
Universidad Politécnica de Cartagena (UPCT)
UPCT (constituted in 1998 in the region of Murcia) is a public university that places great emphasis on international cooperation and mobility. Considered one of the 400 best young universities in the world by The Times Higher Education, is currently a member of the European University of Technology (EUT) integrated by 9 European universities.
- 130 R&D groups
- 720 researchers
- 26.514 scientific publications (11.622 Open Access)
- 860 PhD thesis defended and supervised
- 9 Spin-offs
- Institute of Plant Biotechnology
- Tomás Ferro Agri-Food Experimental Station
- Over 100 R&D&I international collaborative projects
UPCT stands out for its active participation in European research and innovation. With a strong presence in Horizon 2020 and Horizon Europe programs, UPCT drives projects that foster sustainable agriculture, environmental protection, and advanced technologies. The university collaborates with leading institutions and organizations across Europe, coordinating initiatives that promote sustainability, digital transformation, and scientific excellence. Through Erasmus+, LIFE, and EFSA programs, UPCT continues to expand its international impact, connecting research with real-world solutions that shape a more sustainable future.
┃Campus
ASSOCIATED PARTNERS
┃Living in Cartagena
Cartagena is a coastal city that combines an attractive and relaxed quality of life. It has a population of approximately 222,205 inhabitants. In its urban campus, UPCT is experiencing record enrollment figures, with more than 1,200 new students, the highest number in a decade. At the same time, the UPCT has seen significant growth in its international student body, enhancing the city’s multicultural character and making it an appealing destination for those seeking enriching academic and professional experiences. Thanks to its Mediterranean atmosphere, human scale, and strong educational opportunities, Cartagena offers an ideal environment for people looking to develop their careers while enjoying a lifestyle that is both coastal and cosmopolitan.