National Environmental and Agricultural Research Laboratory | VDU Žemės ūkio akademija

National Environmental and Agricultural Research Laboratory

The National Environmental and Agricultural Research Laboratory (formerly the Agrochemical Research Laboratory) began its operations in 1965 and has since maintained a prominent role in both applied and scientific research at the national level. Over the decades, the laboratory has undergone several changes in designation (Lithuanian Agrochemical Service → Agrochemical Research Center → LAMMC Institute of Agriculture Agrochemical Research Laboratory) and institutional affiliation. Nevertheless, its core mission has remained consistent: to deliver high-quality, reliable laboratory analyses in agriculture and environmental science, in accordance with accreditation standards and official authorizations. These efforts contribute to sustainable farming practices, the efficiency of the bioeconomy sector, and the preservation of environmental quality.

The laboratory’s overarching objective is to conduct comprehensive agricultural and environmental analyses while continuously expanding its service portfolio to meet the evolving needs of industry, academia, and society. It also aims to foster scientific advancement, promote technological innovation, and provide expert consulting services.

Core Functions of the Laboratory

  • Conduct research on the agrochemical properties of soils in accordance with procedures established by the Minister of Agriculture of the Republic of Lithuania, and transmit data to the Soil Resources Monitoring Information System
  • Support interdisciplinary scientific research in agriculture, environmental protection, and industry, ensuring compliance with international quality standards
  • Collaborate with business and social partners through commissioned research and joint project implementation
  • Provide consulting services, propose innovative solutions, expand service offerings, and modernize technologies
  • Participate in national and international projects, contribute to conferences and training activities, and offer student internship opportunities

Organizational Structure. The laboratory’s activities are organized through two departments:

Department of Chemical Research and Analysis

This department conducts laboratory investigations in environmental protection, agriculture, and industry, addressing challenges related to pollution, energy efficiency, and sustainability. It collaborates with academic institutions, businesses, and government agencies, delivering services aligned with market demands. Research quality is ensured through a management system compliant with the LST EN ISO/IEC 17025:2018 standard. The department applies nationally and internationally validated methodologies, continuously introduces advanced technologies, and develops analytical methods.

Department of Agri-Environment and Services

This department is responsible for sampling and analyzing soils, water, and other materials. It prepares fertilization and liming plans, provides advisory services to farmers and agribusinesses, and compiles agrochemical research data for land assessment. The department engages in national and international projects aimed at optimizing farming practices, minimizing environmental impacts, digitizing and analyzing data, and integrating results into national information systems. It also organizes educational events, student internships, and research initiatives.

Laboratory Service

The laboratory offers chemical analyses across a broad spectrum of areas, including soils, fertilizers, water, plants, wastewater, sludge, biofuels, ash, soil improvement materials, and plant protection products. Additional services include sampling, customized fertilization and liming plans, environmental monitoring for agricultural enterprises, expert recommendations, and consultations. These services are essential for both scientific research and practical applications in industry and agricultural production. More information

Laboratory Director

Dr. Lina Žičkienė

Email: lina.zickiene@vdu.lt