Field of studies Interdisciplinary Bioeconomy Studies (studies in English) - University of Agriculture in Krakow (Uniwersytet Rolniczy im. Hugona Kołłątaja w Krakowie), URK (Cracow) - Study Bachelor's and Master's in English in Poland

1. You hear about turning agricultural waste into biomaterials and biofuels. What interests you most?

The whole chain – from the biology of the process and the technology to the economics and environmental impact. Mainly that it’s green. Nothing in particular.

2. The programme combines natural sciences, technology, economics and policy. How do you feel about that?

It’s a plus for me – I like looking at a problem from several angles and learning beyond my own field. I’d rather stick to my own field, but I’ll give it a go. I much prefer a narrow specialism.

3. You’re asked to assess whether building a biorefinery in a particular region makes sense. What do you consider?

Raw material supply, costs, benefits for the local community and the environmental footprint. Mostly whether it will turn a profit. I go along with what others think.

4. Classes, reports and debates on climate policy will be in English, and you’ll work on projects with people from different countries. How does that sound?

Great – the bioeconomy is a global issue, and comparing experiences from different parts of the world makes the analysis richer. I’ll manage, though writing reports in English will take some work. I’d rather study in my own language.

5. In a project team, a biologist, an economist and an engineer can’t seem to understand each other. What role do you take?

Translate concepts between disciplines and help them reach a shared solution. Back the person from my own field. Wait for them to work it out themselves.

6. How do you keep up with topics like the circular economy or sustainable farming?

I read reports, research papers and analyses and form my own view, including a critical one. I skim the headlines now and then. I don’t follow them at all.

7. Someone claims that any product made from biological materials is automatically eco-friendly. How do you respond?

Point out that you need to look at the whole life cycle – land, water and energy use, plus transport. Partly agree. Agree completely.

8. What kind of Master’s thesis appeals to you most?

A cross-disciplinary problem – for example, assessing the viability and environmental impact of a specific biotech process. A literature review within a single field. Whatever my supervisor suggests.

9. Where do you see yourself after graduating?

At a company putting bioeconomy solutions into practice, an institution shaping environmental policy, an international organisation or a research centre. In any job connected with the environment. In a job unrelated to the environment.

10. What motivates you most to pursue a Master’s degree in Interdisciplinary Bioeconomy Studies?

The chance to bring together knowledge from different fields and help the shift to an economy based on renewable biological resources. Growing demand for green economy skills on the job market. I’m not sure it’s for me

Interdisciplinary Bioeconomy Studies

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