Research Assistant: Biological Pest Control in Agriculture

Location: Copenhagen

Type: Research

Term: Semester

Introduction to the topic:

In this project, we use insects and beneficials (Biological Pest Control) to reduce or eliminate the need for chemical pesticides in agriculture and horticultural production. The project is anchored in a research collaboration between the Danish company EWH BioProduction in Tappernøje and DTU – The Technical University of Denmark.

Project details:

In this specific project we undertake a number of pilot tests on-site with growers and research institutions in Poland and analyze the data in Denmark. The pilot tests consist of releasing biological pest agents and then monitoring and gathering data on variables such as plant growth and pest development, as well as exogeneous parameters such as humidity, temperature, etc. Data is gathered by growers on-site and, as part of the project, we will develop technology to transfer and monitor data digitally. The DIS research project is conducted in Denmark using data transferred from growers in Poland.

The primary goal is to measure the effects and optimal use of biological insects. Parallel to this, we will test how technologies such as sensors, digitalization, and drones can be used to effectively monitor pest occurrences and optimize pest control. Based on the data gathered, we will develop calculations on the economic cost/benefit of using Biological Pest Control. Finally, we will assess the sustainability of Biological Pest Control and provide suggestions on an ESG score. As Research Assistant, you will have the opportunity to work with a project that spans fields from biology, engineering, sustainability, economics, and business. You will be working with both businesses, universities, and Polish growers. You will gain a deep insight into how to undertake pilot projects, gather data, learn about biological pest control, sustainability, environmental science, experience the specificities of Polish farming and society, and work closely with university researchers, business, and agriculture.

A short field study to Poland may be included as part of the research.

Syllabus

Spring 2025

This is the most recent syllabus for this course

Go to syllabus

Additional research application required

You will need to submit an additional research application through Student Registration in order to enroll in this course.
To submit your research application, you must already be admitted to DIS.

All research application materials must be submitted on the following dates by 23:59 Central European Time:
– November 1 for spring semester applicants
– May 1 for fall semester applicants

Complete your additional research application through Student Registration.
If you are not already enrolled, use this link to apply to DIS before completing a research application.

Michael Hedegaard

Michael Hedegaard is Associate Professor and Head of Studies of the IT and Economics study line at DTU – The Technical University of Denmark. He has a particular focus on how technology and innovation is transferred into sustainable business and development. Prior to DTU, he had more than 25 years of experience in international finance and business development on emerging markets and teaching experience from CBS and DIS. He is the author of “Globalisation and the International Economy”, “Strategic Investment and Finance” as well as two text books in Danish and a number of articles.

Tomasz Blaszczyk

M.S. (Engineering, Silesian University of Technology, Poland, 2006). B.A. in Electrical Engineering, Copenhagen University (Denmark). Researcher at Zealand University of Applied Science working in areas ranging from sustainable food production, agriculture, and bee disease control to the intricate domain of biological pest control. Associate Professor and Researcher at thte Technical University of Denmark, 2009-now. Leading a project in which he conducted research and development of instruments for near-space industry. Inventor of new flow sensor and has strong interest in smart sensor systems, radio communication, embedded applications, intelligent signal processing & control with low power profiles for multidisciplinary approaches. With DIS since 2022.

Research Assistantship FAQ

Learn more about research at DIS.

: Earning authorship within the course of a semester is challenging. Exceptional Research Assistants may be considered for co-authorship, subject to evaluation from the supervising Research Mentor.

Though you may not ultimately become an author on a published paper, you will gain many practical skills and insights into the publication process.

: Many research projects last across several semesters, so not all RAs on the same project will conduct the same research.

: On average, students in 3-credit Research Assistantships spend at least 10 hours a week on research tasks. These 10 hours per week consist of a variety of different research-related tasks, including conducting a literature review, data collection, analyses, coding, documentation, and meetings with your mentor. You may decide on a particular block of time (consistent each week) for you to carry out the work, or adjust it on a week-by-week basis.

Students in a 6-credit Research Assistantships spend an average of 20 hours per week with lab and clinically based research tasks. You decide the exact meeting and lab times with your supervisor, but your schedule consists of classes at DIS two days a week, with two days a week in the lab.

There may be peak times in the research process where all Research Assistant students are expected to spend a few more hours, and then possibly fewer hours another week – to reflect the individual research project and process.

: Work for the 3-credit Research Assistantships may take place outside DIS, on your own time at a location of your choosing, or at DIS – this varies from project to project. The 6-credit research assistantships generally take place at labs in Copenhagen or Stockholm outside DIS.

: Students with a variety of academic backgrounds are encouraged to apply for the 3-credit Research Assistant course. While some courses do have prerequisites, many opportunities do not require prior research experience.

The 6-credit Research Assistant opportunity is designed for highly motivated students who have a strong science background within the field of interest and some basic research experience. The student must be willing to commit a large portion of their semester to an engaging opportunity involving hands-on research in universities and medical institutes in Copenhagen or Stockholm.