SERBian-Austrian-Italian (SAI) partnership FORcing EXCELLence in ecosystem research

The overall aim of the project is the upgrade of knowledge, skills and social capacity of UNSFA (Univ. Novi Sad, Faculty of Agronomy) in the field of environmental sciences, with special focus on agrometeorology and related ecosystem sciences (such as plant physiology, crop management ). The main tool for reaching that aim will be establishment of the AGMETNET research network at UNSFA in collaboration with leading international research institutions BOKU and UNIFI. As a strategy to improve S&T capacities of UNSFA AGMETNET will introduce the concepts of small study groups (SSGs) of UNSFA, BOKU and UNIFI students and develop joint study teaching material in English and native languages. BOKU and UNIFI partners will implement goal-driven measurement and modelling training in the selected research fields for AGMETNET members. Additionally,the EU partners will organise expert training related to preparation of research project proposals for AGMETNET researchers. Intensive exchange of short term scientific visits, guest lectures and students visits among partner institutions will contribute to improved eligibility of AGMETNET members for participation on EU projects, increased number of papers in peer-review journals and increased citation. Finally, AGMETNET will serve as a robust basis for the further sustainable development of the selected research fields at UNSFA, in Serbia and wider region of Western Balkan Countries.