WIFORCE Arenas

The call for WIFORCE Arena Concepts closed on 12 June 2026.

Applications are currently being evaluated. Selected proposals will be invited to submit a more detailed application in the next stage of the process during autumn 2026.

Process at a glance

• Workshop with researchers and partners – April 2026
• Call for Arena Concepts – June 2026
• Evaluation of submitted proposals – ongoing
• Full applications (Stage 2) – Autumn 2026
• Decisions on arena concepts
• Establishment of research arenas

About WIFORCE Arenas

A shared platform for research

WIFORCE Arenas is an initiative within the programme that includes both field-based research arenas and a data support centre. Together, these form a shared platform where researchers and partners collaborate on experiments, data and analysis.

The aim is to create the conditions for research that can address complex questions related to forests, climate and society from multiple perspectives simultaneously.

Data support centre

A forest-focused data support centre is being developed as a central part of WIFORCE Arenas.

The centre will collect and structure forest-related data from research, authorities and the forest sector, enabling advanced modelling, AI and analysis. It will support the field-based research arenas, but can also be used in other research projects.

Field-based research arenas

The field-based arenas build on existing research environments while also developing new shared experimental platforms.

The idea is that multiple research groups and stakeholders will work in parallel using the same experiments and data, allowing forest systems to be studied from different perspectives – for example production, biodiversity and climate.

The work focuses on three main areas:

Landscape-based ecosystem research

The landscape research infrastructure in Krycklan is a key component and will be further developed within WIFORCE Arenas, together with research at other sites across Sweden.

Research includes forest landscape processes, growth, soils, water and biodiversity, with the aim of strengthening the links between ecosystem research, forest management and technological development.

Forest management and biodiversity

This arena focuses on how different forest management practices affect biodiversity. Shared experiments will enable studies of how management methods influence production, biodiversity and forest function over time.

Genetics, breeding and resilience

The focus is on linking genetics to function and understanding how genetic variation affects growth, quality and adaptation to a changing climate, and how this knowledge can be applied in future forest breeding and precision forestry.

Collaboration as a foundation

WIFORCE Arenas are built on collaboration between researchers and partners. Actors from the forest sector are key co-funders and contribute knowledge, resources and practical implementation.

By working together, the programme creates the conditions for research that is relevant to both science and society.