The School of Agricultural, Forest and Food Sciences, Bern University of Applied Sciences joined EFI in 2012 – find out more about work of one of their research groups and why they joined EFI! Dr. Jerylee Wilkes-Allemann, their Research Associate, introduces their work and why they joined EFI.
Research Group Forest Policy and International Forest Management PIM
Our Research Group Forest Policy and International Forest Management PIM is situated within the School of Agricultural, Forest and Food Sciences HAFL, and part of the Bern University of Applied Sciences BFH. HAFL is one of the leading institutions in Switzerland that pursues applied research in the field of Agronomy, Food Sciences and Management, as well as Forest Sciences. We are an interdisciplinary team covering a wide range of areas of expertise: in international forest management we focus on Eastern Europe and the tropics, where we specialize in climate change strategies and concepts, Forest Landscape Restoration, agro-forestry and community-based forestry. Our forest policy themes are forest conservation and planning, ecosystem services and Urban Forestry.
How did you find about EFI and how did you join?
As we work on a number of international and transdisciplinary projects, we came across EFI, which is an important player in forest policy research. We became members of EFI in 2012.
Have you attended any EFI events?
Yes, definitely. We have participated in several conferences organized with EFI over the years, and we also like to integrate experts from the EFI community in our conferences. Just two weeks ago, we submitted a research proposal together with EFI, and we currently head an international consortium financed by the EFI Network Fund.
What one member benefit is most valuable to you?
Members have several benefits. The most important one is that we are part of a big network. Through this network and the different activities offered by EFI we are able to stay in touch, talk to each other and most importantly share knowledge and experiences.
What is your favorite memory associated with EFI?
When I was a student, I did an internship with EFI, when it still was a small organization. Evelyn Coleman, my colleague, took part in a number of conferences at EFI in Joensuu. We very much enjoyed the openness of the colleagues in Joensuu and the events they organized for us (e.g. sauna, ice swimming and ice fishing). We are pleased to see how it has grown and become a leading institution in forestry issues.
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Photo credit: ©Wlad Go – stock.adobe.com
