New professorship for “System Science in Bioeconomy”: Leibniz Institute for Agricultural Engineering and Bioeconomy and Osnabrück University appoint Dr. Dr. Johannes Halbe
The Leibniz Institute for Agricultural Engineering and Bioeconomy (ATB) and the University of Osnabrück have jointly appointed Dr. Dr. Johannes Halbe to the new professorship in “System Science in Bioeconomy” with effect from October 1, 2025. This strategically important professorship is intended to contribute to the systematic analysis and modeling of the complex interactions between technological innovations, ecological processes, and social requirements in sustainable bioeconomy.
Dr. Dr. Johannes Halbe studied civil engineering (Dipl.-Ing.) and economics (B.A. Econ.) at the University of Siegen. He then earned his doctorate in systems science at the University of Osnabrück and in bioresource engineering at McGill University in Canada. Most recently, he held the position of interim professor of resource management at the University of Osnabrück. He is an expert in the development and application of participatory modeling methods for analyzing complex socio-ecological systems. In his research, he integrates qualitative and quantitative methods to develop practical and sustainable solutions for real challenges and cross-scale transformation processes. His interdisciplinary research thus fits perfectly into the strategic development of ATB. In particular, his methodological expertise will significantly enrich the existing competencies and further deepen system-oriented research at the institute.
“The appointment of Dr. Dr. Halbe is a great gain for ATB and for the field of systemic bioeconomy research,” says Prof. Barbara Sturm, Scientific Director of ATB. “His expertise in system modeling will help us to better understand the complex interrelationships in the bioeconomy. In addition, his close ties to the University of Osnabrück will strengthen valuable synergies in research and teaching.“
Dr. Dr. Johannes Halbe is excited about his new role: ”I am very much looking forward to shaping this new professorship and filling it with life. The bioeconomy offers enormous potential for a more sustainable future, but its implementation is complex. My goal is to develop systemic approaches that enable stakeholders from politics, business, and civil society to make informed and sustainable decisions."
The formal appointment ceremony took place on September 29, 2025, at the University of Osnabrück. Dr. Dr. Halbe will take up his post at ATB in Potsdam on October 1, 2025.
About the Leibniz Institute for Agricultural Engineering and Bioeconomy (ATB): www.atb-potsdam.de
About the University of Osnabrück: https://www.uni-osnabrueck.de/
Press contact
Dr. Ulrike Glaubitz
Telephone: +49 331 5699-820
E-mail: UGlaubitz@atb-potsdam.de