MED: Looking Back, Moving Forward

Abstract

Since its creation in 2020, the MED – Mediterranean Institute for Agriculture, Environment and Development – has consolidated its identity as a multidisciplinary research centre connecting nature, food and people. This presentation provides an integrated overview of MED’s evolution, major achievements, internal restructuring, and strategic vision for the next funding cycle. Between 2020 and 2024, MED grew to 410 members and delivered substantial scientific output, with 1,150 publications, active participation in 186 national and international projects, and a strong presence in science communication, knowledge transfer and policy impact, supported by its role within the CHANGE Associated Laboratory. Structural reorganisations — including the creation of new Thematic Lines, Research Groups and the MEDULLA data management system — strengthened internal governance and scientific coherence. Key challenges remain, notably human-resource retention, administrative constraints, and the need to increase success in competitive funding. Looking ahead, MED aims to deepen problem-solving-oriented research, enhance internationalisation, integrate Artificial Intelligence into science management, and reinforce its role in Mediterranean agroecosystems, ecological restoration, soil health, water efficiency and sustainable food systems. By combining interdisciplinary research with stakeholder engagement, informing public policies through scientific evidence, and promoting open-science practices, MED positions itself as a reference institution for resilient, sustainable and climate-adapted agroecosystems.