Research

My research focuses on Food Studies, Food Systems & Food Policies. Especially the modern practices within the complex and linked systems of actors and artefacts in agriculture, food, meals and gastronomy have had my research interest for many years. More specifically, I am concerned with understanding and explaining which mechanisms and dynamics are at play in connection with the major societal challenges of converting these systems to more sustainable, ecological and climate-friendly practices. I have an interdisciplinary background and draw on sociological, anthropological, political and socio-technical theories and methods. Over many years, I have used this to investigate the food system's visible and invisible practices in the many different types of organizations and networks that characterize one of society's most complex systems that ensure the population's daily diet. I have completed a number of research and development projects (supported by the EU through FP6, FP7, H2020, HEU and supported by national foundations, etc.). Together with 19 partners, I have as workpackage lead just completed a large study for the EU on which new competences and areas the EU can support to ensure a sustainable transition in the agricultural and food system: NEXTFOOD-project.eu. I am also implementing an H2020 project in relation to the EU's FOOD2030 program on how 11 European cities can develop sustainable food systems and strategies with the help of Living Labs. In the past, I have been in charge of the development of the master's program Integrated Food Studies and before I came to RUC, I developed the basis for a research program in the gastronomic field at Umeå University.