My research focus is plant ecology with emphasis on cropping system diversification and ecological weed management. The aim of my research is to improve our knowledge of interactions in agro-ecosystems and to develop cropping systems based on the systematic and combined use of ecological mechanisms rather than direct interventions such as herbicides and fertilizers.
Presentation
Simplified crop rotations, the excessive use of fertilizers and the reliance on herbicides to control weeds has led to a cascade of complex problems in todays’ agroecosystems. This is including the rapid spread of herbicide resistant weed populations, pesticide contamination of the environment and food chain, health risks to pesticide users and consumers as well as a tremendous loss of biodiversity. Todays weed communities are typically dominated by a few highly adapted species that are difficult to manage with strategies that are solely based on direct weed control measures. For addressing these problems, across-scales and multidisciplinary research and teaching is required, aiming to improve the environmental, social and economic sustainability of todays’ cropping systems.
My current research is focusing on studying the effect of cropping system diversification on the provision of ecosystem services. In particular, I am interested in how the diversification of cropping systems affects the composition of arable plant communities and thus the functional trait diversity in agroecosystems. For my research, I use participatory research approaches in which farmers, advisors and researchers jointly design and test cropping systems in short- and long-term field experiments. Beyond my core research activities, I am interested in environmental, social and economic implications of agroecosystem management in general and weed management in particular.
PADILSO - Participatory design of innovative crop management strategies for lupine and soybean production in organic farming (Ekhaga Foundation). (2022 - 2024)
Preparing for the future: sustainable cropping systems without glyphosate (SLF). (2020 - 2023)
EcoServ: Long-term evaluation of agroecosystem functioning along a cropping system diversification gradient (long-term trial financed by the NJ faculty). (2021 - )
Background
since 2023 Senior Lecturer (Docent) in Plant Ecology, SLU Department of Crop Production Ecology
2019 - 2023 Associate Senior Lecturer in Plant Ecology, SLU Department of Crop Production Ecology
2015 - 2019 Postdoctor at Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Department of Crop Production Ecology
2012 - 2015 Postdoctor at University of Hohenheim, Institute for Phytomedicine
2012 Ph.D. in Agricultural Sciences, University of Hohenheim, Germany
2008 Master in Agricultural Sciences, University of Hohenheim, Germany, Major: Crop Science
Alopecurus myosuroides.
1/1
Supervision
I am co-supervisor of Steffen Dahlke and Elsa Lagerkvist.
