DISTAL PhD Green Day 2026

The DISTAL PhD Green Day 2026 is an annual event organised by the PhD candidates of the Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences (DISTAL), University of Bologna, in the framework of the EU Green Week. The event highlights how doctoral research can contribute to the transition towards a nature-positive economy, in line with the EU Green Week 2026 theme ‘Investing in a Nature-Positive Economy’.

The initiative aims to showcase innovative research carried out by PhD students working on sustainability across different fields, including sustainable agriculture, food systems, environmental management, circular bioeconomy and rural development. Through short scientific presentations, the event promotes interdisciplinary dialogue and the exchange of ideas on how research and innovation can support environmentally responsible and economically viable solutions.

The programme includes four thematic sessions. Three sessions present research activities from the DISTAL PhD programmes based in Bologna, Cesena and Imola; highlighting the diversity of research topics and approaches within the department; and showcasing regional academic contributions to sustainability. A fourth session focuses on industrial PhD projects; showcasing collaborations between academia and industry; and their role in supporting innovation and sustainable development.

The event is primarily addressed to PhD students, researchers, academics, stakeholders and professionals interested in sustainability, agri-food systems, environmental sciences and the bioeconomy. By providing a platform for early-career researchers, the DISTAL PhD Green Day stimulates discussion on how scientific research can contribute to building resilient food systems and sustainable environmental management in Europe.