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Institute for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Dynamics Institute for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Dynamics

IBED front and center at the UvA Deep Tech Day

17 March 2026

IBED researchers played a prominent role at the Deep Tech Day conference hosted by the University of Amsterdam Faculty of Science in January. Deep Tech Day focused on strengthening the university’s technology profile by spotlighting innovations expected to reach application or market readiness within the next decade. IBED’s strong presence reflected the institute’s growing portfolio of technologies designed not only to advance ecological science, but also to deliver practical solutions

Throughout the day, a large and dynamic group of around 25 IBED scientists and students rotated across the innovation markets, showcasing AI-driven tools for sustainable agrotechnology, aquatic eco-technology, predictive ecological models, radar-based systems to reduce human–wildlife conflict, and nature-inspired geo-engineering solutions

Eco-technologies for aquatic ecosystems and the deep sea
AI-driven real-time species identification
a nature-inspired geo-engineering solution for soil permeability (Images: Goos Hengeveld)
Predicting and designing olfactory molecules using machine learning
deriving 3D ecosystem structure using LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) technology
reducing human-wildlife conflicts using radar technology and predictive modeling (Images: Stacy Shinneman)

IBED also hosted guided tours of its laboratory facilities. These lab tours offered visitors a behind-the-scenes look at how new technologies are developed, tested, and refined — from sensor development and ecological modelling to applied environmental diagnostics

Identifying patterns in insect scents using machine learning
automated collection of biodiversity data
mass spectrometry to detect unknown contaminants in drinking water and soil (Images: Stacy Shinneman)

The high level of engagement throughout the day underscored IBED’s role as a key contributor to UvA’s deep tech ambitions. By translating biodiversity and ecosystem science into deployable technologies, IBED continues to demonstrate how fundamental research can generate tangible societal impact.