A group of researchers from the fields of biology, geology and archaeology from 13 European countries and 25 academic institutions, NGOs and private companies have obtained funding of about DKK 31 million (EUR 4 million) for a major project on enhancing our understanding of European landscape history, with focus on the interaction between nature, humans and energy sources. On this basis, the project will investigate possibilities for future landscape management that is sustainable with regard to energy and nature. One of the researchers is Professor Jens-Christian Svenning from the Department of Bioscience, who has received around DKK 3.9 million for two PhD projects. Moreover, he will act as co-supervisor on two other PhD projects in the network.

Jens-Christian Svenning’s research will focus on enhancing our understanding of the natural composition and function of European ecosystems. Among other things, the research will be based on analyses of large amounts of paleoecological data from before the introduction of agriculture to Europe, and on the historical development and future potential of the European large-mammal fauna (megafauna). Furthermore, Professor Svenning will explore the opportunities for society and the potential socio-economic benefits that can be achieved by using rewilding as a nature management approach across Europe.

The grant comes from the Marie Sklodowska-Curie Actions Innovative Training Networks, administered by the European Commission.

Contact

Professor Jens-Christian Svenning

BIOCHANGE - Centre for Biodiversity Dynamics in a Changing World & Section of Ecoinformatics and Biodiversity, Department of Bioscience, Aarhus University,

Mobile: +45 2899 2304

Email: svenning@bios.au.dk