Young soil researchers represent a generation that will respond to future open questions in soil science and implement connected policy developments. They will deal with emerging challenges and opportunities for soil protection, such as climate change, biodiversity monitoring, scenario analysis, big data, modelling integration, one-health aspects, and soil living laboratories.

In this context, the EU Soil Observatory (EUSO) provides an inclusive stage for participatory research in Europe and beyond. In 2021, at the first gathering of the EUSO Stakeholders Forum, young researchers were actively engaged through the establishment of the 1st Young Soil Researchers Forum (YSRF). Over 50 early-career scientists had the opportunity to present and discuss their findings and potential implications for policy development. This first edition resulted in the publication of the EUSO Young Soil Researchers Forum thematic issue in the European Journal of Soil Sciences.

On the 14th and 15th of October 2024, the 2nd edition of the Young Soil Researchers Forum. EUSO’s objective is to make YSRF a networking and knowledge exchange event. The young scientists are called to present their work and get in contact with policy makers, academia, other peers and private sector. The event is of interest for academic experts and industry to discover a new pool of talented young scientists.

We also plan to have keynote presentations from EU Human Resources Administration to describe job opportunities within the Joint Research Centre and other services of the European Commission (e.g. Marie-Curie opportunities). We also welcome participants from EU funded projects and private sector to interact with the young Scientists. Additionally, the HORIZON Soil Mission secretariat will have the floor to present EU Soil Mission research opportunities. Selected papers will be submitted in well-known publishers (e.g. European Journal of Soil Science).