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Céline Nicole strengthens collaboration between Maastricht University and HAS green academy in high-tech horticulture

Since August 1, Céline Nicole has joined the Faculty of Science and Engineering at Maastricht University as Associate Professor of Horticulture Technologies. At the same time, she holds the position of Lecturer in Horticulture Technologies at HAS green academy. In this dual role, she forms a bridge between fundamental and practice-orientated research, while both institutions work together to give a significant boost to Brightlands Campus Greenport Venlo, developing it into the leading knowledge and expertise centre for high-tech horticulture.

A powerful alliance between science and practice

At the Brightlands Future Farming Institute (BFFI) within the Faculty of Science and Engineering, Nicole applies her expertise in physics, plant physiology, data analysis and sensor technology to high-tech greenhouse and vertical farming. Her lectureship at HAS builds on existing knowledge of innovative cultivation techniques, linking fundamental research directly to the practical challenges of the horticultural sector.

“The global horticultural sector faces pressing issues, from the energy transition to sustainable food production,” says Nicole. “Through multidisciplinary research and close collaboration between BFFI and HAS Green Academy, we can combine scientific knowledge with applied solutions to drive meaningful progress.”

Booming: high-tech greenhouses & vertical farming

Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA) encompasses high-tech production of vegetables, fruit, herbs and flowers in controlled environments. Data-driven technologies allow temperature, light and nutrients to be optimally tailored to the plant, resulting in efficient use of water and land, higher product quality, improved food safety, and greater sustainability. For a future-proof horticultural sector, innovations in system design, data integration and crop management are essential, a core focus of BFFI research.

Brightlands Future Farming Institute (BFFI)

The Brightlands Future Farming Institute (BFFI) is a collaboration between FSE and BASF | Nunhems. BFFI focuses on genetics, growth recipes and crop management to achieve the optimal phenotype. Researchers and students from Maastricht University work together across disciplines to develop solutions for the agriculture of the future.

Research greenhouse at Maastricht University campus Venlo

About Céline Nicole – de Groot

Nicole holds a PhD in physics and has over 24 years of experience in high-tech horticulture, lighting, sensor technology and data science, including work at Philips/Signify. She has been affiliated with international research institutes and universities such as INSA (France), AMOLF (Amsterdam) and TU/e. Through her appointments at FSE and HAS green academy, she continues to share her knowledge and lead multidisciplinary research, making a tangible impact on science, the sector, and society.

Read about the cooperation between Maastricht University and HAS green academy

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