IRC-SAE 2026 Annual Seminar

The IRC-SAE Annual Seminar: A Day of Discussion and Collective Reflection

On Tuesday, October 13, the IRC-SAE’s annual seminar was held on the Cézeaux university campus. The event brought together approximately 95 members of the International Research Center for a day of key sessions focused on reviewing activities, discussing future directions, and engaging in scientific dialogue—all with a shared goal: to strengthen collaborations and build the future of the IRC-SAE together.
 

Review, Evaluation, and Outlook

The morning began with a presentation by Pierre Schiano on the findings of the Clermont Auvergne University (UCA) evaluation committee. Isabelle Cassar-Malek, the director of the IRC-SAE, then presented a review of the year 2026, as well as information regarding the IRC-SAE’s evaluation committee.

Two external presentations also enriched the discussions on topics central to agricultural and regional challenges:

    “A Forward-Looking Vision of Transformations and Adaptation in the Agricultural and Rural Areas of the Massif Central,” presented by Arnaud Carré and Laurent Robert;

    “Barriers and Drivers of Agroecology,” presented by Bertrand Dumont.
 

Envisioning the Future of the IRC-SAE Together

In the third phase, participants took part in brainstorming workshops organized in the form of a World Café. These group discussions made it possible to explore various possible scenarios for the IRC-SAE’s future, compare perspectives, and identify potential paths forward (strategic refocusing vs. thematic refocusing).
 

Showcasing the Research of Young Scientists

The day continued with presentations by doctoral and postdoctoral researchers funded by the IRC-SAE. They shared the progress of their research as well as their initial findings, offering a glimpse into the diversity of projects supported by the research center.
This seminar was a highlight of sharing, dialogue, and collaborative work. It provided an opportunity to exchange perspectives, highlight ongoing research, and reflect together on the future directions of the IRC-SAE, driven by a shared commitment to strengthening synergies and improving collaboration.
See below for the presentations by the various speakers.

•    Speaker presentations & summaries of projects by doctoral and postdoctoral researchers funded by the IRC-SAE