My name is Dr Nadine Herold, and I am participating in the Leibniz Association’s Scientific Exchange Program from May 1 to July 31, 2026, based at the German Consulate General in Vancouver.

The primary objective of this three-month work shadowing is to engage with stakeholders from science, science policy, research administration, and industry within Canada - particularly in the consular district of Vancouver - while strengthening knowledge and experience transfer between the German Federal Foreign Office, the Leibniz Association, and the Leibniz Institute for Agricultural Engineering and Bioeconomy (ATB).

ATB is a pioneer and a driver of systemic-technological bioeconomy research. It creates the scientific foundation for the transformation of agricultural, food, other industrial and energy systems into a sustainable bio-based circular economy. As a scientific officer at ATB, I am particularly interested in establishing collaborations with Canadian universities and research institutions working on sustainable agriculture, healthy foods, and the utilization of biomass and residues for bio-based materials and energy. Furthermore, I aim to explore relevant research infrastructures and projects, and to identify opportunities for future joint initiatives that generate long-term benefits through sustained collaboration and knowledge exchange.