Werner Dierend

Prof. Dr. Werner Dierend is a Professor in the Faculty of Agricultural Sciences and Landscape Architecture at Osnabrück University of Applied Sciences. His research focuses on fruit growing and processing, with a particular emphasis on optimizing cultivation systems, production processes, and post-harvest storage. He leads a professorship dedicated to fruit growing, supported by 6 hectares of experimental land and specialized facilities including CA/ULO storage rooms. His work integrates experimental studies with industry collaborations across Germany.

Education and Career: Born in 1958, Dierend completed his studies in horticulture at the University of Hannover, followed by roles at the Landwirtschaftskammer Weser-Ems and a research project. He earned his doctorate in 1992 with a thesis on soil nitrogen dynamics and became a professor at Osnabrück in 1994.

Research Interests: His work spans system optimization (e.g., pruning, rootstocks), nutrient management, apple breeding (in collaboration with the Niederelbe Breeding Initiative), and storage technology. Students actively participate in experimental projects linked to these areas.

External Roles: He is the leading editor of 'Erwerbsobstbau', a member of the German Society for Horticultural Sciences, and involved in regulatory roles such as the Appellate Board for Fruit Cultivation at the German Federal Variety Office.

Facilities: The department operates extensive experimental fields and storage facilities, enabling practical research and industry partnerships. Collaborations with agricultural institutions and farms nationwide enhance applied research outcomes.