Description

Over the past decade, harnessing the plant microbiota has gained recognition as a key strategy for making agriculture more sustainable. This approach is especially important as traditional farming faces growing challenges from climate change, soil degradation, and the need to reduce synthetic pesticide use while still maintaining high yields. Plant-associated microorganisms offer a promising, environmentally friendly solution: they can improve nutrient availability, strengthen resistance to drought and salinity, and mitigating diseases progression caused by pathogens.

We will utilize EcoFab 2.0 of Joint Genome Institute for testing a microbial community in the plant rhizosphere and analyze the transcriptome and metabolome of plants and associated microorganisms.

By uncovering the principles that govern plant–microbiome cooperation in this project, we aim to develop biological solutions that increase yields, restore soil health, and reduce reliance on chemical inputs. Ultimately, our work with a specific microbial community will not only provide practical tools for agriculture but also deepen fundamental knowledge of how plants and microbes build partnerships that strengthen ecosystems.

Share on Facebook Share by Bluesky Share on LinkedIn Share by WhatsApp Share by Mastodon