Schwerpunkt-Seminar Economics of Innovation

Modulnummer: 5209-611 (1. Parallelgruppe)

Analyzing Sectoral Innovation Systems – Sustainability in Biotechnology

• Description

The transition to a sustainable bioeconomy requires innovation and systemic change across various sectors, with biotechnology playing a key role in addressing environmental, economic, and social challenges. However, different areas of biotechnology—ranging from medical and industrial applications to agriculture and marine resources—face distinct sustainability challenges and opportunities.

This seminar explores how sustainability is integrated into the sectoral innovation systems of different biotechnology fields, focusing on Red (medical), Green (agriculture), White (industrial), Blue (marine), Grey (environmental), and Yellow (food) biotechnology. We will analyze how firms, policies, and stakeholders in these areas navigate tensions between innovation, regulation, and sustainability goals.

Students will critically assess sustainability strategies, transition pathways, and the role of corporate actors in shaping the sustainability performance of their respective biotechnology sectors. Using case studies, sustainability reports, and innovation system frameworks, we will examine whether biotechnology contributes to genuine sustainability transitions or reinforces existing structures.

• Information on registration and organizational matters:

·        If you are interested in participating in the seminar this semester, please send an email with the following information to Stephanie Lang mailto:stephanie_lang@uni-hohenheim.de by 21 March 2025 at the latest: name, matriculation number, degree programme.

·        The number of participants is limited (first come, first serve)

·        The sessions will take place on site.

·        The seminar language is English.

·        Before the kick-off event you already need to pick a topic from the topic list on Ilias (the link and password will be sent to you after your registration)

·        At the kick-off event, you will receive information about the overarching topic of the seminar and the research and writing process.

·        Registration for our course "Scientific Writing" is a prerequisite for participation in the seminar. 

• Please note that it is mandatory to participate in the following sessions:

·        Mi, 02.04.2025 10:00 – 12:00 (Kick-off + How to research, on site)

·        Mi, 07.05.2025 10:00 – 12:00 (Q&A session, online)

 ·       Mi, 04.06.2025 10:00 – 12:00 (Student presentations, on site)