UPSC researchers participate in several projects funded by the Swedish Foundation for Strategic Research (SSF). Current projects focus on improving photosynthesis, accelerating tree breeding and developing innovative approaches for sustainable forestry and climate-resilient plant production.
Redesigning Photosynthesis for Future Food Security
This project aims to improve crop productivity by increasing the efficiency of photosynthesis. Researchers combine systems biology, structural biology and genetic engineering approaches to identify and overcome limitations in light harvesting and carbon fixation.
The project is funded through the SSF Agenda 2030 Research Centres (ARC) programme.
Project duration: 2020–2026
Project partners:
- Åsa Strand (project leader), UPSC, Umeå University
- Alexey Amunts, Stockholm University
- Paul Hudson, KTH Royal Institute of Technology
- Stefan Jansson, UPSC, Umeå University
Read more about the project on the SSF website and in this UPSC news article.
Landscape Breeding – A New Paradigm in Forest Tree Management
This project aims to develop a digital breeding approach for Norway spruce that combines remote sensing, environmental data and modern DNA analyses. The goal is to accelerate tree breeding while maintaining biodiversity and supporting sustainable forest management.
The project is funded through the SSF Food, Feed and Forest 2020 call.
Project duration: 2022–2026
Project partners:
- María Rosario García-Gil (project leader), UPSC, SLU
- Eva Lindberg, SLU
- Johan Holmgren, SLU
- Kenneth Olofsson, SLU
- Thomas Lundmark, SLU
- Malin Elfstrand, SLU
- Jan Stenlid, SLU
- Nicolas Delhomme, UPSC, SLU
- Mari Suontamaa, Skogforsk
- Gerhard Scheepers, RISE
Rapid-Cycling Breeding
This project aims to shorten the breeding cycle of Norway spruce by inducing earlier cone production. The resulting breeding tools could help develop trees that are better adapted to climate change and emerging diseases.
The project is funded through the SSF Food, Feed and Forest 2020 call.
Project duration: 2022–2026
Project partners:
- Ove Nilsson (project leader), UPSC, SLU
- Jens Sundström, SLU
- Harry Wu, UPSC, SLU
- Mari Suontamaa, Skogforsk
Trees that Grow Better
This project aims to improve productivity in fast-growing deciduous trees by enhancing photosynthesis and optimising nitrogen use. The research may contribute to more productive forest plantations and support climate-neutral forestry.
The project is funded through the SSF Food, Feed and Forest 2020 call.
Project duration: 2022–2026
Project partners:
- Stefan Jansson (project leader), UPSC, Umeå University
- Olivier Keech, UPSC, Umeå University
- Henrik Böhlenius, SLU
Further information
Read more about the projects funded through the SSF Food, Feed and Forest 2020 call in this UPSC news article and on the SSF website.