Laimburg Image brochure | English

LAIMBURG
RESEARCH CENTRE
THE LEADING RESEARCH INSTITUTE
FOR AGRICULTURE AND
FOOD PROCESSING IN SOUTH TYROL

OUR
MISSION
Laimburg Research Centre is named after the ancient ruin of Laimburg, a castle located on a
mountain pass, known as the Kreit Saddle, on the southern Mitterberg Ridge. The Kreit Saddle
connects Kaltern / Caldaro Lake with the village of Pfatten / Vadena. The hilltop castle was
built in the 13th century and given as a fief to Heinrich Laian, a citizen of Bozen / Bolzano, after
whom it was probably named. It was later managed by the Lords of Rottenburg. By the late
15th century, the castle was already abandoned and beginning to fall into disrepair. Laimburg
Research Centre and the Laimburg Technical School for Fruit Growing, Viticulture, and Horticulture
were named after these ruins.
APPLIED AND BASIC RESEARCH
SOLUTIONS FOR AGRICULTURAL PRACTICE
SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE AND FOOD PROCESSING
ECOLOGICAL AND ECONOMIC SUSTAINABILITY
TO BOOST THE COMPETITIVENESS OF LOCAL COMPANIES
TO ENHANCE THE QUALITY OF LOCAL AGRICULTURAL
PRODUCTS AND FOODS
TO STRENGTHEN OUR CULTURE OF INNOVATION

MORE THAN 200
CO-WORKERS
350 RESEARCH PROJECTS
AND ACTIVITIES
450 LECTURES AND
PUBLICATIONS PER YEAR
SOUTH TYROL FEATURES SEVERAL DIFFE-
RENT CLIMATIC AND GEOLOGICAL CONDI-
TIONS IN CLOSE GEOGRAPHICAL PROXIMITY
At higher altitudes, agricultural activities mainly involve animal husbandry,
grassland management, and commercial forestry. Fruit and wine-growing are
concentrated in the valley floors, where milder climatic conditions and more
fertile soils are to be found.
South Tyrol is typically characterised by small-scale agricultural businesses and
family farms. The competitiveness of these smaller enterprises is supported by
strong cooperatives.
THE GOAL OF LAIMBURG RESEARCH CENTRE IS TO PROMOTE SUS-
TAINABLE AGRICULTURE AND TO ASSIST, SUSTAIN, AND FURTHER
DEVELOP LOCAL AGRICULTURAL BUSINESSES AND FOOD PROCES-
SING COMPANIES.
RESEARCH NETWORK
Laimburg Research Centre is part of a
research network of national and
international partners.
The research activities of Laimburg Research Centre support the entire agricultural
and food processing sectors in South Tyrol – from cultivation all the
way up to the finished product, from the valley floor up to high altitude.
Laimburg Research Centre was founded in 1975 as a public body of the Autonomous
Province of Bozen / South Tyrol. It is thus the main research facility for the
South Tyrolean agricultural and food processing sectors.
With its experimental activities and scientific research, Laimburg Research Centre
creates know-how, develops practical solutions and innovative strategies for a
sustainable and resilient agri-food system in South Tyrol.

THE 2021-2030 RESEARCH
FOCUS PROGRAM
THE LAIMBURG PORTFOLIO
ANNUAL PROGRAMME OF ACTIVITIES
The activities programme is developed every year in collaboration with various stakeholders
in the South Tyrolean agricultural and food processing sectors.
SUSTAINABLE AND RESILIENT CULTIVATION SYSTEMS
Unlocking nature’s full potential. We develop sustainable and demand-oriented
cultivation techniques to protect and preserve natural resources and
biodiversity, and to support agricultural businesses in the Alpine region.
THIRD-PARTY FUNDED PROJECTS AND CONTRACT RESEARCH
Laimburg Research Centre carries out many research projects with funding from European
and local programmes. It also conducts research activities on behalf of local
companies to achieve concrete solutions.
DIGITAL INNOVATION AND SMART TECHNOLOGIES
Developing future-oriented cultivation and processing techniques. We implement
digitalisation and modern breeding methods into actual practice.
CLIMATE-NEUTRAL AGRICULTURE
Developing cultivation and processing methods that are more climate-friendly.
We develop agricultural practices with a smaller climate footprint
and higher carbon capture rate, and we adapt cultivation methods to
future climate conditions.
SERVICES AND OPEN LAB
Laimburg Research Centre offers services – analysis and consulting – in all
areas of its research.
The Open Lab Concept allows South Tyrolean start-ups and companies to access the
Research Centre’s labs and equipment, and the Research Centre’s researchers and
experts provide them with the support they need.
QUALITY AND HEALTH
Safe and healthy food products from South Tyrol. We develop innovative
methods which companies in South Tyrol can employ to produce food
products of certified quality and origin.
LOCAL DIVERSITY AND CIRCULAR ECONOMY
Valorising regional mountain products. We promote the diversity of
high-quality mountain products and ensure that they are utilised in a (supra-)regional
circular economy.
LAIMBURG RESEARCH CENTRE IS A RESEARCH
PARTNER OF NOI TECHPARK
NOI Techpark is a powerhouse for innovation in South Tyrol. Companies, start-ups,
research facilities, and the Free University of Bozen / Bolzano come together to carry
out research and development in the technological fields Food, Green, Automotive/
Automation, and Digital.
Laimburg Research Centre is part of NOI Techpark and co-ordinates the area Food in
conjunction with the Free University of Bozen / Bolzano.

INSTITUTE FOR FRUIT
GROWING AND
VITICULTURE
VARIETY INNOVATION,
ORGANIC AGRICULTURE,
„SMART“ FARMING,
COMPLEMENTARY CROPS,
SUSTAINABILITY,
BREEDING TECHNOLOGIES,
CERTIFIED PROPAGATION MATERIAL.
This institute develops practical solutions for the South
Tyrolean fruit and wine-growing sector. The main goal
of its research activities is to develop methods for the
ecologically and economically sustainable production of
high-quality fruit and wholesome grapes and to implement
these methods in actual practices.
THE SOUTH TYROLEAN GENE BANK
This institute maintains a gene bank to
preserve agriculturally interesting apple
and grape varieties in South Tyrol.
THE „FRUIT GROWING“ RESEARCH
AREA
The „Fruit Growing“ research area works to promote and
support fruit growing in South Tyrol by introducing new
THE „WINE GROWING“ RESEARCH
AREA
The main goal of the „Wine Growing“ reseach area is to
improve the quality of grapes and wine. To achieve this,
THE „ENOLOGY“ RESEARCH AREA
The task of the „Enology“ research area is to support the
wine sector by conducting enological experiments in the
wine cellar and by further developing enological techno-
SERVICES AND CONSULTING
Enological consulting
Professional consulting and training in enological
techniques.
fruit varieties and cultivars, further developing cultivation
systems and pruning methods, optimising irrigation and
fertilisers, and developing future-oriented practices in
organic fruit growing.
the „Wine Growing“ research area develops and tests innovative,
efficient, and sustainable methods of vineyard
management for a more efficient use of natural resources
like soil and water.
logy. It also carries out soil suitability studies for individual
grape varieties, analyses the quality of wines made using
new grape clones and performs chemical and sensory tests
of wines –including by means of wine-tasting panels.
Certified grape varieties and propagation material
Provision of grape varieties and propagation material,
certified according to Italian and/or European law.
Secretary’s office: +39 0471 969 625

INSTITUTE FOR
MOUNTAIN
AGRICULTURE AND
FOOD TECHNOLOGY
The Institute for Mountain Agriculture and Food Technology
supports the South Tyrolean mountain agricultural
sector through scientific research, not only in cultivation
but also in the processing of raw materials to make
typical South Tyrolean products.
THE GENE BANK
This institute manages a gene bank for
the identification and conservation of
local cereal, pseudo cereal, and vegetable
varieties.
THE „MOUNTAIN AGRICULTURE“
RESEARCH AREA
The „Mountain Agriculture“ research area conducts applied
research ranging from the South Tyrolean meadowlands all
the way to complementary crops like arable crops, herbs,
and vegetables. This includes selecting varieties and
optimising cultivation techniques in terms of agronomy and
ecology; developing seed mixes for growing fodder; but
also protecting local phytogenetic resources for cereals.
SERVICES AND CONSULTING
Storage and post-harvest biology
Validation and development of innovative storage technologies.
Optimal quality and degree of ripeness in the
post-harvest chain. Consulting on optimal storage methods
to prevent the loss of goods due to pathogenic
organisms and metabolic diseases, and to maintain optimal
fruit quality.
Fruit and vegetable processing
Optimisation of processing methods and shelf-life of
foods to improve quality and safety. Analysis of physico-chemical
and microbiological stability of foods as well
as of the thermo-physical and mechanical properties of
individual ingredients and finished products.
Meat products
Development of new products and promotion of local
products by providing support for the optimisation and
innovation of production and preservation processes, according
to statutory regulations pertaining to the food
sector.
GRASSLAND FARMING,
FOOD PROCESSING,
SENSORY SCIENCE,
STORAGE, ARABLE CROPS,
VEGETABLE-GROWING, MEADOWLAND
AND GRASSLAND MANAGEMENT, PRO-
DUCTION CHAIN,
VALUE-ADDED CHAIN, PRODUCT
INNOVATION, FIELD-TO-SHELF.
THE „FOOD TECHNOLOGY“
RESEARCH AREA
The „Food Technology“ research area develops cutting-edge
preservation technologies for long-term fruit
storage. It also optimises processing techniques for
food products including fermented products, distilled
spirits, juices, purees, and canned goods as well as milk
and meat. Sensory analyses are performed to investigate
foods and thus determine consumer preferences to support
market research in the development of new products.
Fermentation and distillation
Development, optimisation, and consulting on such topics
as food safety and processing techniques for the
manufacture of fermented beverages and foods, fruit
brandies, and liqueurs.
Sensory science
Sensory and technical characterisation of foods based on
sensory analyses carried out by qualified tasters. Physico-chemical
analyses and consumer tests.
Secretary’s office: +39 0471 969 540

INSTITUTE FOR
PLANT HEALTH
THE „PLANT PROTECTION“
RESEARCH AREA
THE „HORTICULTURE“
RESEARCH AREA
BIOLOGICAL CROP PROTECTION,
NATURAL ANTAGONISTS,
DIVERSITY OF SPECIES,
PLANT PROTECTION PRODUCTS,
GREEN AREAS, PARASITOIDS,
VIRAL DISEASES.
The goal of this institute is to maintain the health of cultivated
crops and ornamental plants by evaluating and developing innovative
strategies for the prevention and control of pests and
diseases. Activities range from basic research in the lab all the
way up to field experiments for the purpose of devising solutions
for agriculture and horticulture.
The „Plant Protection“ research area develops and
evaluates innovative, sustainable strategies to regulate
plant pathogen populations that can be implemented in
actual practices. The goal is both to protect harvests and
to meet the requirements of farmers, consumers, and
the environment.
This research area establishes and develops networks offering
consulting and promoting the application of research
findings in South Tyrolean horticulture. The goal is to capitalise
on and protect the ecological, social, aesthetic, urbanistic,
and cultural values of green areas in a sustainable fashion.
This research area also promotes biodiversity. It is responsible
for coordinating the „Natur im Garten Südtirol“ initiative.
SERVICES AND CONSULTING
Laboratory for Virology and Diagnostics
Diagnostics based on microbiological, serological, or biomolecular
tests of diseases affecting crops and ornamental
plants caused by bacteria, fungi, phytoplasmas, viruses,
or viroids. Phytopathological tests to identify quarantine
diseases, and analyses for monitoring compliance in accordance
with E.U. Plant Protection Directive 2016/2031.
Research Area Horticulture
Free consultation on obtaining the „Natur im Garten“certification
and various topics related to public green areas.
Secretary’s Office: +39 0471 969 600

INSTITUTE FOR
AGRICULTURAL
CHEMISTRY AND
FOOD QUALITY
Cutting-edge molecular and microbiology, chemical
testing and spectroscopy methods are used to analyse
plants and foods. These tests, like proof of authenticity
of varieties and rootstocks, are used for in-house projects
and offered as a service to third parties.
The Institute performs research on the basic principles
and causes of the development and spread of plant diseases,
such as apple proliferation.
OPEN LAB
LABORATORY OF FOOD MICROBIOLOGY
Microbiological testing and characterisation of the microbial
state of foods to guarantee the safety and quality of
various foods. Tests are based on the detection of a specific
micro organism or the determination of the total bioburden
in a food product.
LABORATORY FOR WINE AND BEVERAGES ANALYSIS
Analysis of the chemical and physical parameters of wines,
musts, spirits, fruit and grape juice, including determination of
free and total sulphur. Annual performance of ripeness tests
on local grapes as an aid to deciding the ideal moment for
harvesting.
LABORATORY OF RESIDUES AND CONTAMINANTS
Chemical analysis to check the presence of plant protection
product residues (fungicides, insecticides, herbicides) and
contaminants in food and water. Analysis of the degradation
and drift behaviour of new active plant protection substances.
LABORATORY FOR SOIL AND PLANT ANALYSIS
Chemical analysis of nutrients in agricultural soil, garden substrates,
compost, organic fertilisers, manure, mineral fertilisers
and irrigation water, as well as in plant organs, such as
leaves and fruit. Thanks to these analyses, it is possible to
check that plants are being provided with an optimum supply
of nutrients.
LABORATORY OF MOLECULAR BIOLOGY
Analysis and sequencing of plant DNA and RNA using cutting-edge
equipment. Qualitative and quantitative methods
to identify the authenticityof apple and grape varieties.
Institute Secretary: +39 0471 969 550
LABORATORY FOR FLAVOURS AND METABOLITES
Analysis of components naturally present in food and
plants, using cutting-edge analytical methods to study quality,
properties, purity and origin. Metabolomics based on
mass spectrometry and non-destructive methods for food
quality testing.
NMR LABORATORY
In collaboration with the free University of Bolzano/Bozen,
the Research Centre Laimburg operates the NMR Laboratory
with the aim of assessing the origin, typicity and authenticity
of South-Tyrolean food products as well as characterising
and identifying unknown molecules.
These laboratories are situated at NOI Techpark,
A- Volta Street 13/A, 39100 Bolzano/Bozen
DETERMINATION OF ORIGIN,
MASS SPECTROMETRY,
AROMATIC PROFILE,
NEAR INFRA-RED SPECTROSCOPY,
NON-DESTRUCTIVE TESTING
TECHNIQUES
LABORATORY FOR FODDER ANALYSIS
Analysis of the components of hay, silage and concentrated
feeds to guarantee a balanced diet, orientated towards livestock
performance. Quantitative determination of ingredients
in feeds using non-destructive testing techniques.

SCIENCE SUPPORT, STRATEGY
AND COMMUNICATION
This interdisciplinary team supports researchers at Laimburg Research Centre in
expanding their scientific networks, developing and managing new projects and
disseminating their results.
STRATEGIC ORIENTATION AND
RESEARCH NETWORK
This team supports the strategic orientation of the Centre and assists in the
development of long-term research programmes. It promotes international and
interdisciplinary collaboration in research by virtue of its presence in Brussels.
THIRD-PARTY FUNDED PROJECTS
AND PROJECT MANAGEMENT
The goal of this team is to support researchers in applying for additional funding
and assists them in implementing and managing third-party funded projects.
SCIENCE COMMUNICATION AND
EVENT MANAGEMENT
This team defines the Research Centre‘s communication strategy, serves to
enhance its public profile, and helps disseminate its research findings to specific
target groups via different channels.
SCIENTIFIC LITERATURE
The library provides access to scientific literature from the various research areas
of Laimburg Research Centre.
SCIENCE SUPPORT,
STRATEGY AND
COMMUNICATION

TRANSFER OF KNOW-HOW
GUIDED TOURS
New scientific breakthroughs are constantly appearing in international, national, and local SCIENTIFIC JOURNALS AND
PROFESSIONAL PUBLICATIONS, as well as being shared with interested parties during EVENTS and SITE VISITS.
Laimburg Research Centre offers guided tours for the public as well as
special tours for experts and professionals.
The LAIMBURG JOURNAL is a digital open-access periodical for the scientific publications of Laimburg Research Centre and
addresses interested parties in the fields of agriculture, food sciences, and other related fields.
You can book a guided tour via our website.
TAKE A LOOK AT OUR VIRTUAL TOUR

„The fundamental goal of
the Laimburg Winery is to
preserve the individual
character of the grape and
transfer it to the glass.“
Urban Piccolruaz,
Cellar Master
THE LAIMBURG WINERY
Laimburg Research Centre also operates the Laimburg Winery, where findings from the Centre‘s activities in the field of
viticulture and enology are pooled, enabling the production of our own high-quality wines. The range of wines includes all
the representative grape varieties of South Tyrol: Pinot Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc, and Gewürztraminer are the main varieties
for white wines, Lagrein, Pinot Noir, and Vernatsch for red wines. All the grapes come from the vineyards of the Laimburg
agricultural estate, which consists of approximately 20 hectares of vineyards in various wine-growing areas and features
different soils and altitudes, ranging between 200 and 750 meters above sea-level.
THE ROCK CELLAR:
A REPRESENTATIVE LOCATION
FOR THE WINE-GROWING REGION
OF SOUTH TYROL
The unique Rock Cellar was created in the late 1980s. About 4,000
cubic meters of rock were blasted from the mountain‘s red porphyry
using 5,000 kg of dynamite. A barrel cellar currently housing about
330 barrels and a wine archive (with approx. 60,000 bottles) was then
established. This is where the experimental wines are stored and where
wines from the world’s most important wine regions are collected.
There is also a vaulted room with 300 square meters of floor space
– the perfect setting for official events to present the wine-growing
region of South Tyrol.
Companies, organisations, and associations have the opportunity to
hold events here in the Rock Cellar. You can check availability and
reserve this venue for your own events via our website

„Agriculture in South Tyrol is
„For many decades, Laimburg Re-
„We value Laimburg Research
„We see Laimburg Research
„Laimburg Research Centre is a
„We view Laimburg Research
currently facing major challenges,
search Centre has been the most
Centre as a partner for future-ori-
Centre as an important partner
solid scientific institution, which
Centre as a reliable and competent
and to meet these challenges, the
important research facility for our
ented projects. It functions as a
because it carries out comprehen-
has supported the South Tyrolean
partner for our research projects in
sector needs the continued and
agriculture, and a major partner
wellspring of innovative ideas
sive research and development ac-
wine sector for decades. It has
the area of agriculture. We recent-
increasing support of the applied
when it comes to innovation and
and is an indispensable source of
tivities in the areas of production,
helped South Tyrol to become one
ly collaborated with the Research
research provided by Laimburg
the protection and development
technical information and professi-
plant protection, and storage.“
of the leading wine-growing areas
Centre within the framework of
Research Centre.“
Arnold Schuler, Provincial Councillor for
Agriculture, Forestry, Tourism, and Public
Safety
of special cultivars in South Tyrol.“
Leo Tiefenthaler, Provincial Chairman
of the Association of South Tyrolean
Farmers
onal consulting. Together, we can
achieve more.”
Annemarie Kaser, Director of the Association
of South Tyrolean Dairy Producers
Georg Kössler, Chairman of the South
Tyrolean Apple Consortium
in Europe.”
Andreas Kofler, President of the South
Tyrolean Wine Consortium
the RE-CEREAL Interreg project
and we were greatly impressed by
the profound technical knowledge
and cooperative attitude of its
co-workers.”
Virna Cerne, Senior Director Research &
Development Centre Trieste Dr. Schär
„For the NOI Techpark, Laimburg
„Laimburg Research Centre is
„Laimburg Research Centre is
„We know Laimburg Research Cen-
„Laimburg Research Centre repre-
Research Centre is a driving force
a place where individuals and
an important partner, providing
tre to be a research facility with
sents an invaluable source of infor-
and valued partner for innovation
organizations seeking useful scien-
us with plenty of support in our
a great deal of expertise and a
mation for us. As future farmers,
in South Tyrol – this is due to its
tific information will find open
work with its practice-oriented
very broad network. This means it
it supplies us with innovative
many years of experience, ex-
doors and helpful experts, eager
research activities.”
can provide modern solutions and
approaches and scientific know-
tensive technical know-how, and
successful research activities in
the field of agriculture and food.”
Ulrich Stofner, CEO NOI Techpark
to assist them in sharing their
knowledge.”
Matteo Scampicchio, Professor at the
Free University of Bozen / Bolzano
Robert Wiedmer, Coordinator of the
South Tyrolean Centre of Expertise for
Fruit Growing and Viticulture
innovative approaches suitable for
practical application in the field of
South Tyrolean agriculture.”
Christian Plitzner, President of BRING
(Centre of Expertise for Alpine Agriculture)
how from a variety of disciplines.”
Lukas Peer, student at the Laimburg
Technical School for Fruit Growing, Viticulture
and Horticulture

HOW TO FIND US
www.concept-art.it
Meran
Merano
Bozen
Bolzano
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Brenner
Brennero
MEBO
SS42
St. Michael
San Michele
A22
Kaltern
Caldaro
Pfatten
Vadena
Laimburg
Leifers
Laives
Branzoll
Bronzolo
Publication information
Photo Credits
Ivo Corrà
Laimburg Research Centre
Pictures above the statements on the inside cover:
Kalterer See
Lago di Caldaro
Tramin
Termeno
SP14
A22
SS12
Auer
Ora
Autobahn-Ausfahrt
Auer/Neumarkt
Uscita Autostrada
Ora/Egna
Cavalese
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Neumarkt
Egna
Content Editors
Julia Rizzo, Jennifer Berger, Johanna Höller,
Vera Rehbichler
Verona
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Trento
Graphic artwork
CONCEPTART
Printed in South Tyrol
Kraler Druck
©Laimburg Research Centre
All rights reserved. Laimburg/Pfatten, 2022

Laimburg Research Centre
Postal address: Laimburg 6, I-39040 Ora (BZ), Italy
Phone: +39 0471 969 500
E-Mail: researchcentre@laimburg.it
Pec: laimburg.research@pec.prov.bz.it
www.laimburg.it
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