Advocating for sustainability and equity in soil science
Franca Giannini-Kurina’s journey from Argentina to Denmark has been one of continuous learning, challenges, and advocacy. With a background rooted in agronomy and applied statistics, Franca Giannini-Kurina’s work focuses on using data science to drive sustainable practices in agriculture while pushing for inclusivity and transparency in research.

Franca Giannini-Kurina’s academic journey began in Cordoba, Argentina, where she pursued her degree in agronomic engineering. In Argentina, a Bachelor’s program spans five years and integrates what many other countries would classify as a Master’s curriculum. Early in her studies, Franca Giannini-Kurina discovered a passion for soil science, motivated by its quantitative and mathematical dimensions.
During her postgraduate years, Franca Giannini-Kurina took on the dual challenge of completing a PhD and a Master’s in applied statistics simultaneously. “It was a long path,” she reflects, but one that allowed her to merge soil science with statistical modelling. Her doctoral research focused on herbicide dynamics in soils and geostatistical modelling, providing her with robust methodological tools to address agricultural challenges.
Driving sustainable practices through modelling
After completing her postgraduate studies in Argentina, Franca Giannini-Kurina sought an opportunity abroad to expand her expertise and experience. This search led her to a position at Aarhus University. “I was drawn to the chance to model carbon and nitrogen cycles within an agronomic context,” she shares. Since arriving in Denmark two and a half years ago, Franca has become a vital part of projects that emphasise sustainable agricultural practices.
Currently, Franca Giannini-Kurina’s research revolves around modelling soil functions, particularly carbon sequestration and nitrate leaching. Her work often employs spatial and temporal modelling to understand seasonal variability and to predict the environmental impact of agricultural practices.
She has contributed significantly to projects like Klimagræs, which explored the role of grasses in climate regulation, focusing on soil carbon sequestration. She’s also part of the Nitagro project, which applies machine learning to model and predict nitrate leaching patterns. Franca Giannini-Kurina emphasizes that while machine learning offers exciting possibilities, its effectiveness lies in how well data-driven methods are integrated and validated within the research framework.
The importance of open science and collaboration
For Franca Giannini-Kurina, the significance of her research extends beyond soil science. She is an advocate for open science, transparency, and evidence-based decision-making. “To make agriculture sustainable, decisions must be quantitative, evidence-based, and transparent,” she argues. She believes that robust methods and clear documentation are critical for ensuring that research can effectively inform policies and farming practices.
She also stresses the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration. Working with diverse teams within the department and beyond, Franca has seen firsthand how varied expertise can elevate research. “We need to involve more diverse minds and perspectives to strengthen the integrity of our work,” she says.
A vision for the future
Looking ahead, Franca Giannini-Kurina is optimistic about the potential of stochastic modelling and applied statistical research in environmental sciences. She foresees a shift in focus toward understanding predictive models’ outputs and mechanisms, ensuring that these tools are not only provide innovative predictions but also transparency and thorough comprehension.
She also acknowledges the growing need for integrated research that bridges science with public perception. “We provide the outputs, but we often miss the perspective of those who receive them,” she notes, advocating for research that integrates societal insights.
Balancing work, advocacy, and life
Despite her demanding schedule, Franca Giannini-Kurina finds time to engage in community activities. In Denmark, she has embraced volleyball to stay active and connect with others. Her team’s diversity, with members from different countries and age groups, mirrors the inclusivity Franca values in her professional life.
Outside of sports, she is committed to fostering equity in academia. Her involvement in gender equity and diversity initiatives within the department reflects her belief in the importance of representation and inclusion. “We need to team up more, to challenge for real the status quo and bring a systemic change” she asserts, envisioning a future where academia must be a hub for innovation that leads to truth inclusion.
A romantic relationship with higher education
Franca Giannini-Kurina describes her connection to higher education as romantic. “I believe higher education is aa primary driver of change and must be grounded in solid, transparent research,” she says. She views universities as spaces for fostering critical thinking and sees her work as part of a larger mission to ensure that science serves society equitably.
Her journey highlights the importance of dedication, collaboration, and advocacy. Her work not only contributes to soil science but also promotes her vision for a more inclusive and sustainable future.
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