IRI THESys is open to collaboration with research institutions, food processors, SMEs, technology providers, municipalities, NGOs, and Living Labs aiming to advance circular, low-impact, and socially just food processing systems. We are particularly interested in consortia that combine technological innovation with participatory design, governance innovation, and systemic sustainability assessment.
We are highly motivated to actively support proposal development and writing, especially in shaping co-creation frameworks, stakeholder involvement plans, Living Lab work packages, and pathways for scaling and policy integration.

IRI THESys brings extensive experience in supporting systemic transitions toward sustainable and circular agri-food systems, with a strong focus on the social, spatial, and governance dimensions of innovation. The Laboratory of Multifunctional Landscapes works at the interface of food production, processing, consumption, and landscape-scale sustainability, integrating ecological, economic, and societal perspectives.
Through successful European projects such as EdiCitNet and ecoFABULAnds, the institute has demonstrated its capacity to design and facilitate Living Labs and co-creation environments that bring together producers, processors, policymakers, citizens, and researchers. This includes hands-on experience in addressing food waste reduction, circular resource use, urban–rural linkages, and the valorisation of by-products within food value chains.
IRI THESys contributes expertise in stakeholder-driven innovation, participatory governance, and the assessment of sustainability trade-offs, ensuring that technological advances in food processing are socially accepted, economically viable, and environmentally sound. The institute is well-positioned to support research on circularity, energy transitions, and resilient food processing systems by embedding them in real-life contexts and diverse food environments.
Dr. Ina Säumel has coordinated and contributed to complex, multi-actor European projects and is experienced in translating research outcomes into policy-relevant insights, practical tools, and scalable solutions. Her leadership ensures strong integration between technical innovation, societal needs, and long-term sustainability impacts.