OnePlanet Research Center
ISARA is a French higher-education institution specializing in agronomy, food, and environment, with campuses in Lyon and Avignon. Founded in 1968, it trains engineers, bachelor students, and international MSc students for careers across agriculture, agri-food, sustainability, and related professional fields. The school positions itself as a reference institution for agroecology, sustainable food systems, applied research, and innovation in the agri-food sector. It emphasizes a close connection to the professional world, a field-based and multidisciplinary pedagogy, and a mission focused on helping students become responsible actors capable of addressing climate, biodiversity, health, and food-transition challenges. Core Values Human-centered learning : ISARA highlights trust, engagement, teamwork, and personal growth, with an educational approach that aims to know, support, and encourage each student individually. Responsibility and sustainability : The school frames its mission around acting for people and the planet, with strong attention to ecological transition, biodiversity, climate, and socially responsible food systems. Scientific excellence with practical impact : ISARA stresses rigorous science, applied research, and hands-on learning so that knowledge translates into concrete solutions for agriculture and food sectors. Collective spirit : Collaboration among students, staff, researchers, and partners is presented as a core way of working, both in education and in the school’s broader mission. Unique Aspects Specialized agri-food institution with dual campuses : ISARA operates from Lyon and Avignon, giving it access to two distinct regional ecosystems in life sciences, naturality, and agri-food innovation. Strong professional embeddedness : The school was created by professional stakeholders and maintains close ties through consulting activity, a professional network, and the Terra ISARA endowment fund that brings together companies from its sectors. AGRIVIA union and centers of excellence : ISARA is part of AGRIVIA with ISEMA, and this union includes the CLAS center for agroecology and sustainable food systems and the Hub des Audacieux for innovation and entrepreneurship. Recognized research focus : Its research activity is organized around agroecology, sustainable food systems, rural studies, and microbial ecology of fermented foods, supporting applied solutions for the sector. National quality and public-interest labels : ISARA is an EESPIG institution and holds DD&RS recognition, underlining its non-profit status, public-interest mission, and commitment to sustainable development.