This summer school is a joint teaching program of the ELLS Subject Area Plant Health, which was initiated to introduce the status quo of biological control of insects and mites, and its prospective challenges in a changing world. The content of the summer school should clearly present the pros and cons of biological control, but also the potential handling of challenges such as biodiversity, biological invasions and climate warming in relation to biocontrol.
Background of Summer School / Introduction
This summer school will focus on with the status quo of biological control of insects and mites in agriculture and forestry in a changing world. The content of the summer school should clearly present the pros and cons of biological control, but also the potential handling of prospective challenges such as biodiversity, biological invasions and climate warming in relation to biocontrol.
Hosting University
University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna
Venue
Institute of Plant Protection, Gregor-Mendel-Strasse 33, 1180 Vienna, Austria
Date
06.07. – 12.07.2025
Participants
25 students at the Master’s or PhD level, students from an ELLS member or partner university are preferred, but other interested students are welcome to apply.
Previous Knowledge
A study background in agricultural and environmental sciences, life sciences, plant protection, biological control and entomology is recommended.
Course Content
• Principles of biological control of insects and mites in agriculture and forestry
• Biology and ecology of major pest species and their control by natural enemies
• Impact of land use change on biological control
• Global warming and invasive pest species
• Importance of biodiversity for biocontrol
• Future challenges for biocontrol
Intended Learning Outcome (ILO)
Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:
• Define the fundamental principles of biological control of pest insects and mites.
• Comprehend the merits and drawbacks of biological control.
• Identify the potential challenges associated with biocontrol.
Skills:
• The application of biocontrol concepts for the implementation of sustainable pest control
• The practice of critical and analytical thinking in an international environment
• The improvement of the scientific English language
Competences:
• Proficiency in collaborative work within interdisciplinary and international groups
• Capacity to integrate diverse viewpoints on the subject, contemplate perceptions, and formulate substantiated professional appraisals
• Addressing challenges in interdisciplinary teams
Course Schedule
A virtual part is scheduled to begin in the first week of July 2025.
1th of July: Introduction round, one online-lecture
2nd of July: one online lecture.
Additionally, studies relevant to the lectures (up to three per lecture) will be available for the students, and they will write reflections to selected lectures, which will be integrated in the assessment criteria
On July 6, 2025, the group will arrive and participate in an icebreaker event
The course is scheduled to take place at BOKU University from 7-12 July 2025 (physical mobility). The programme will comprise the following components:
• An introductory presentation at BOKU, introducing the faculty and all participants
• Lectures, seminars and workshops on
(i) the principles of biological control of insects and mites,
(ii) the biology and ecology of major pest species and their potential control by natural enemies,
(iii) the impact of global warming, invasive species and biodiversity on biological control, and
(iv) the future of biological control
• Field trips to a company dealing with beneficial insects and to organic farmers in Styria
• A final workshop and feedback session
• A final farewell dinner
Course Language
English
Course Format / Teaching Methods
The teaching approach includes a combination of lectures, seminars, workshops, laboratory and fieldwork, and excursions during the week on-site. In addition, a two-day e-learning course is planned before the face-to-face visit to Vienna.
Credits
ECTS Credits and Workload Overview
| Number of Credits [ECTS] | 3 |
|---|---|
| TOTAL Workload [hours] | 75 |
| Student's own work [hours] | 18 |
| Contact classes [hours] | 47 |
| Exam [hours] | The immanent character of the assessment |
Type of Assessment and Assessment Criteria
• Pre-course preparation: a general introduction to the topics and preparation of a reflection of selective studies in relation to the content of the lectures in small groups
• Course week: attendance and engaged participation during the excursions, workshops, seminars and teamwork
• Group work: written reflections will be evaluated by the teachers
Cultural Activities / Social Program
• Ice breaker event, farewell dinner
• Optional: Vienna city tour, movie night, Prater amusement park in Vienna, other social activities
Tuition Fees
• ELLS students: 250 €
• Non-ELLS students: 300 €
The registration fee covers excursions, weekday lunches, and food and beverages during lessons and fairwell dinner.
Additional Costs
Students have to sort out their own housing, breakfast, dinner, insurance, and travel costs. But ELLS students can get an Erasmus grant for the Blended Intensive Pro-gram (BIP).
Accommodation
Students will be informed about available accommodations and have the option to select other accommodations as well. It is imperative to note that the organization and reservation of accommodations must be conducted by the participants themselves. Given the high volume of students and tourists who arrive in Vienna during July, it is strongly recommended that individuals organize their accommodations well in advance.
Health Insurance
Health insurance, covering illnesses and accidents, is required for participation.
Visa
All participants are responsible for arranging the correct visa, required to study legally in Austria for the duration of the one-week summer program.
Application Deadline
31 May 2025
Link to online Application form
Will be added soon.
Contact persons for scientific questions
Andreas Walzer, andreas.walzer@boku.ac.at
Contact person for administrative questions
Elia Noa Pflügelmeier, carina.bittmann@students.boku.ac.at