Member in focus: Mati Koppel, Estonia

MEMBER IN FOCUS: MATI KOPPEL, ESTONIA

Mati Koppel is the representative of Estinia at NJF's board and currently a full professor of Plant Pathology at the Estonian University of Life Sciences.

In 1984 he graduated from Tartu State University in Biology-Botany and in 1992 he received a PhD in Plant Production from the Estonian Agricultural University. Between 1984 and 1999 he has been a Researcher at Jõgeva Plant Breeding Institute. Between 1999 and 2019 he has been Director of Jõgeva Plant Breeding Institute/Estonian Crop Research Institute. From 2020 and 2024 he has been a Researcher at the Estonian University of Life Sciences.

1. How long have you been a member of NJF?

I am member of NJF since 2004. Between 2004-2012 and 2012-2019 I was involved in the section of Plant Protection. Since 2021 I’m a Board member of NJF.

2. What is the added value of being part of NJF?

NJF has widened my networking with other Baltic and Nordic countries. NJF seminars and congresses are bringing together people from different research areas creating a good possibility to make new contacts.Very important is that in addition to researchers, also advisors are involved in NJF activities. This enables to keep strong connection with the agricultural practice.

3. How do you see the future of agricultural science and NJF?

Most important is that the agricultural sector in our region is needing studies and recommendations based on local practices and deep knowledge on local conditions. I think that NJF, as an organisation joining researchers from different agricultural disciplines, will play a vital role also in the future.

4. What makes you happy?

Meeting old colleagues and friends at NJF events is always heartwarming.

Photo: Mati Koppel