Field of expertise:

AUP was founded in 1945 as a Faculty within the structure of the University of Plovdiv. It is a unique national centre of higher agricultural education and science. There are working 216 scientists on contract.
AUP has got a long experience in agriculture and biomass related issues. Major research activities are:
- Breeding, genetic and biotechnological investigations in plant breeding, seed production and introduction, ecology and purification of contaminated areas.
- Establishment of advanced technologies in crop production in green-houses and in the open
- Conservation of the agro-ecosystems;
With the support of an international project of Tempus programme an Agro-ecological centre was established as an integrated structure with the AUP.
The research and production activities are realized on the training-and-experimental estate, spreading on 185 ha. He has more than 20 years of experience in the design and development of machinery and processes. Whilst he was working for Ford in the 90th he used to work for a machine manufacturer where he was responsible for the design of machines and complete production lines, as well as for installation and commissioning.
The Agricultural University in Plovdiv has a rich experience as coordinating, contracting or partner institution in international joint projects within TEMPUS-PHARE, SOCRATES/ERASMUS, COST, SCOPES, ALTERNER, INCO-COPERNICUS, FIFTH FRAMEWORK, LEONARDO DA VINCI, etc. programs.

Role in the project:
AUP will organize the “Best Practices of Biomass and Bio-Products Workshop”. With the support of LEI it will be responsible of the development of a related report. Moreover, it will contribute to the “White Book for Biomass in Europe”. Considering its expertise in agriculture and biomass related issues, AUP is also expected to participate in the Quantification of Biomass Potential but also in the performance of the Matrix of Biomass Inventory. Besides, AUP will collaborate with USRIEP in the consecution of “Current Research within the Consortium Report”. Also in the WP4, AUP will support BZN to determine Centres of Excellences in the Biomass Sector.