The European Association of Potato Research (EAPR) conference has a long history dating back to 1960, where the first Triennial Conference was held in Brunswick-Volkenrode, Germany. Since then, both the science and production of potatoes have changed enormously and we look forward to welcoming scientists and practitioners to exchange knowledge, share ideas and present new research findings.

The EAPR aims to promote the exchange of scientific and technical information relating to all facets of potato including breeding, production, protection, storage and utilisation between countries both in and outside Europe.

We are expecting over 300 delegates at the conference from the UK, Europe and internationally, with over 4 days of keynote presentations, parallel sessions and excursions, centred around the theme of Sustainable Potato Production for a Changing World. The conference will be held in the University of Edinburgh’s historic McEwan Hall in the centre of one of Europe’s most beautiful cities.Photo Credit: Javier Albuja (Unsplash)

As Director of the National Potato Innovation Centre (NPIC), my aim is to work closely with UK scientists conducting potato research and with industry partners to ensure that this work addresses the needs of the sector. It is therefore particularly rewarding for me and my colleagues at NPIC to organise this Triennial Conference, which brings together potato scientists and industry professionals from across Europe and beyond to share knowledge and develop solutions to the many challenges facing the production of Europe’s second most important food.

Thank you for your support of the 23rd EAPR Triennial Conference and we look forward to seeing you there!