Doctoral School of Agricultural and Food Sciences introduction

Last modified: 13. November 2025

The Doctoral School of Agricultural and Food Sciences (AÉTDI) of the Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences was established on September 1, 2025, through the integration of previously independent doctoral schools — including the Animal Biotechnology and Animal Science, Animal Science, Food Sciences, Horticultural Sciences, and Plant Sciences Doctoral Schools — as well as relevant programs of the Festetics Doctoral School. Its research activity builds upon the scientific profiles, achievements, and professional networks developed within the framework of these former doctoral schools.

AÉTDI comprises four doctoral programs: the Animal Science Doctoral Program, the József Farkas Food Science Doctoral Program, the Horticultural Science Doctoral Program, and the Plant Science Doctoral Program. The Doctoral School is authorized to conduct doctoral training and habilitation procedures in three scientific fields: animal sciences, food sciences, and crop production and horticulture sciences.

The doctoral programs of AÉTDI cover the entire spectrum of food production — from fundamental research through applied sciences to production and processing technologies. The aim of the Doctoral School is to train highly qualified researchers and professionals who are capable of addressing current challenges in the fields of animal science, crop production, horticulture, and food science through a complex, interdisciplinary approach, thereby contributing to the development of sustainable and innovative food production. In addition, the doctoral school pays special attention to research on wildlife management, aquaculture, plant protection, grassland management, as well as the application possibilities of modern biotechnological methods. With these focus areas, it covers nearly the entire spectrum of agricultural and food sciences, creating opportunities for the implementation of complex, interdisciplinary research projects.