ZooM on the "Feed" doctoral platform by Karen Lambert-Cordillac, platform educational manager

Launched in May 2023 by the University of Montpellier, in collaboration with the University of Pretoria, the FOODS - "Feed, Care, Protect" global doctoral collaborative platform brings together 17 partner institutions on five continents. Its ambition: to build an international community of young scientists committed to the sustainable transformation of food systems.

A transdisciplinary and intercultural approach

FOODS aims to pool knowledge and develop innovative solutions at different scales. The approach adopted is both transdisciplinary and intercultural, encouraging a diversity of perceptions, reflexivity and dialogue between South and North.

The main objectives of the platform :

• Developing knowledge geared towards transforming food systems;
• Structuring a global network of expertise and influence;
• Train future leaders in the science of sustainable development.

Each partner university selects two doctoral students at the start of their thesis, who take part in several international training sessions.

An example of collaboration between Montpellier and São Paulo

The first cohort, made up of 33 people from 18 nationalities, met for a first field school in March 2024 in Montpellier, around the theme: "Obstacles to the transformation of food systems". Work focused on the case of the Montpellier metropolis. In November 2024, a second session was held in Piracicaba, Brazil, in partnership with the University of São Paulo.

The next stage will take place in September 2025 at the University of Pretoria, South Africa. Meanwhile, a second cohort has been selected for February 2025. It will begin its journey at Laval University (Quebec) in November, focusing on a new theme: "How food systems can help prevent the global rise in chronic diseases".

The work carried out by doctoral students has given rise to a number of scientific productions currently under development:

• Understanding food systems: comparing the case study of Piracicaba, Brazil and Montpellier, France ;
• Position paper: Experience of the Feed Care Protect Platform ;
• How government policies and municipal actions influence the structure and functioning of local food systems. A case study in Piracicaba and Montpellier.

These exchanges have also led to active participation in major international events.

A formative experience for committed future researchers

In addition to its academic benefits, this platform offers a unique international collaborative learning experience. Exchanges between students from very different cultural and geographical backgrounds broaden research perspectives and enhance the relevance of thesis work. These interactions stimulate the emergence of new ideas and lasting collaborations.

Students also have the opportunity to present their work at major events (Montpellier Global Days, preparatory meetings for the G20, COP, meetings with deans and representatives of metropolises, etc.), enabling them to build up a network of contacts invaluable for their professional future.