Why Plantekongres Remains a Must-Attend Event for Plant Researchers
Emil Dahl Nielsen, Ph.D at Department of Agroecology, joins Plantekongres to expand his knowledge in his own field while also gaining inspiration from areas outside his expertise. He urges colleagues to participate as well.
Participants can once again expect two days packed with expert knowledge, sharp debate and valuable networking, when Plantekongres returns to Herning on January 7-8, 2026. And this time, the annual gathering point for crop producers, advisors, researchers and industry partners introduces not only an English track in the programme, but also live English translation of all sessions, making the congress more accessible than ever.
For many researchers, the congress has long been a key event. One of them is Ph.D. student at the Department of Agroecology, Emil Dahl Nielsen. He highlights the unique breadth and depth of the programme as a major reason to join.
“The congress offers almost 80 different presentations, all focused on agriculture in a time of change, where challenges and experiences are shared and discussed. The speakers are usually leading experts, offering great opportunities to expand your knowledge in your own field while also gaining inspiration from areas outside your expertise,” he says.
New knowledge, strong networks
Emil Dahl Nielsen explains that he has always gained something from the academic aspect weather an update on work he was already familiar with, or some insight into a new and exciting field. Beyond the academic insights, the congress also serves as a professional meeting place.
“I have always participated with my former classmates, where we have been able to spend time together and discuss our different perspectives on various presentations throughout the day. These are usually topics that we are all very interested in, so it's great to delve into them a little afterwards,” Emil Dahl Nielsen says.
Turning from personal experience to the wider research community, he underlines why Plantekongres is worth attending.
“I think all researchers in our field should participate in the plant congress. It is a relatively small world where you quickly get to know the different people and institutions”, he says and highlights the value of meeting practitioners:
“In addition, many other stakeholders besides academic researchers participate, and their perspectives are always valuable to take into account, as consultants and farmers are essentially the professionals who will translate our knowledge into practice”.