Meet Lina Sommer

We are excited to welcome Lina Sommer, a passionate researcher from Germany, as she joins AgroParisTech to advance the assessment of innovative policy instruments for sustainable biomass production and supply (thesis 6.2). At 24, Lina brings a strong background in agricultural economics and a keen interest in creating a greener future.

Lina’s academic journey has taken her across Europe, allowing her to gain a broad perspective on global agricultural and economic issues. She completed her Bachelor’s degree in Ökotrophologie (Nutritional Science and Food Economics) at Justus-Liebig University Gießen in Germany. Following that, she pursued a prestigious Erasmus Mundus Double Degree Master’s program in Agricultural, Food, and Environmental Policy Analysis. This included a Master of Science in Agriculture and Bio-industries from Université catholique de Louvain in Belgium and a Master of Science in Agricultural and Food Economics from Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore in Italy.

Lina has also gained valuable industry experience through several internships and working student roles. Between 2020 and 2022, she contributed to market and consumer research at ProVeg e.V., supporting the EU Horizon 2020 Smart Protein Project. In 2022, she interned in business development at Wunderf!sh, a Berlin-based start-up that focuses on innovative food products using European seaweed. These roles have equipped her with insights into the intersections between market trends, consumer behaviour, and sustainable product development.

Lina’s research interests centre on the role of economic policies and market incentives in promoting the shift toward bio-based products and sustainable agricultural practices. Her passion for research emerged during her graduate studies. She became intrigued by how economic tools can shape sustainable agricultural practices and food systems. She believes that a deep understanding of the connections can help develop economic models and policies that balance economic development with environmental conservation. For Lina, bioeconomy research is a way to contribute to solutions that address pressing global challenges while creating opportunities for economic growth.

Lina chose to focus on the bioeconomy because it offers a comprehensive approach to tackling challenges like climate change, resource depletion, and economic development. The field emphasises renewable biological resources, aligning with her vision of creating sustainable agricultural systems. She believes that the bioeconomy can drive innovation, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and support rural economies. Through her research, she aims to help shape economic policies that promote bio-based industries while ensuring both environmental and social sustainability.

Lina’s long-term ambition is to become a leading expert in bioeconomy economics. She hopes to work with international organisations, governments, and industries to design innovative economic models that support the transition to bio-based economies. Her goal is to help shape policies that promote sustainable development and environmental protection on a global scale.

Outside of her professional life, Lina enjoys hiking, traveling, and reading. These hobbies provide her with a sense of balance and a chance to explore new perspectives, fuelling her curiosity and creativity.

When it comes to her professional persona, Lina finds inspiration in the song “Believer” by Imagine Dragons. Its message of resilience and overcoming challenges reflects her approach to both her research and the broader field of bioeconomy. The song reminds her that perseverance is key to achieving progress, both in her work and in creating a more sustainable future.

Connect with Lina: LinkedIn