Pioneering solutions for sustainable agriculture
From Singapore’s skyline to the fields in Denmark, Selina Sterup Moore’s path combines a global perspective with a mission to combat climate change through agricultural innovation.

Selina Sterup Moore’s story begins in Denmark, though much of her formative years were spent in Singapore, a place that shaped her curiosity and determination. After earning her bachelor’s degree in biology from the University of Copenhagen, Selina Sterup Moore’s thirst for knowledge led her to Milan, where she completed her master’s studies. Specialising in genome editing of crops, she built a foundation in theoretical research, diving deep into the mechanisms of genetic pathways in plants.
However, something was missing. “I wanted to see my work applied in real-world scenarios,” she recalls. The turning point came when she discovered a PhD project under the supervision of Carsten Malisch, focusing on the intersection of plant production and climate change mitigation. “The idea of contributing to sustainable agriculture excited me,” she says. Thus, Selina Sterup Moore’s journey at Aarhus University began.
Bridging science and agriculture
Her current research focuses on minimising methane emissions from ruminants while simultaneously enhancing carbon storage in the soil. Her work revolves around two forage species high in tannins - natural compounds that bind proteins and disrupt microbial activity in ruminant stomachs. This not only reduces methane production but also slows down the decomposition of plant material in soil, enhancing its carbon pool.
“It’s a win-win,” Selina Sterup Moore explains. “We’re addressing two critical challenges—lowering atmospheric carbon emissions and improving soil health.” But the journey hasn’t been without challenges. Coming from a molecular biology background, navigating the intricacies of agricultural systems and policies has been a steep learning curve. Yet, her interdisciplinary approach has become one of the most rewarding aspects of her work.
A vision for impact
Selina Sterup Moore believes her research could help dairy and cattle production move closer to carbon neutrality. By identifying the genetic factors influencing tannin content, her team aims to either breed or engineer plants with enhanced bioactivity. This has the potential to revolutionise forage crops and create more sustainable livestock farming systems.
The stakes are high, and Selina Sterup Moore is optimistic about the future. She belives that recent shifts in EU policies regarding genome editing could accelerate breakthroughs in crop production. “If regulations continue to evolve, we could drastically reduce the time it takes to develop cultivars that meet sustainability goals,” she explains. However, she emphasises the need for balanced policies to avoid monopolistic pitfalls similar to those seen with GMO practices in the past.
Balancing work, family, and passion
Beyond the lab, Selina Sterup Moore’s life has been marked by significant personal milestones. She’s a proud new mother, navigating the delicate balance of work and family. “It’s been tough, especially as a PhD student,” she admits. Her strategy involves setting clear boundaries—avoiding work emails after hours and prioritising quality time with her family. “I’ve learned to be present, whether it’s in the lab or at home,” she shares.
Despite her demanding schedule, she holds onto her love for hiking and sports, particularly rugby. She looks forward to sharing her outdoor adventures with her son, instilling in him a love for nature and movement.
Looking ahead
As Selina Sterup Moore continues her PhD, she dreams of creating plant cultivars that not only mitigate greenhouse gas emissions but also enhance agricultural sustainability. She envisions a future where genome editing and interdisciplinary collaboration reshape global farming practices, making them more resilient to climate challenges.
For Selina Sterup Moore, the essence of research lies in discovery. “The coolest thing would be to uncover a new gene or pathway that fundamentally changes how we approach sustainability in agriculture,” she says with a smile. As she tackles these challenges, she exemplifies the transformative power of curiosity and dedication, inspiring others to dream big and think green.
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