Determine and assess benefits/impacts and trade-offs of agroecology, and identify best practices
We want to partner with a consortium. We can contribute our expertise in pathogen control and plant disease management to develop methods for evaluating trade-offs between different agroecological practices, focusing on disease resistance, crop resilience, and soil health. Our research on the genetic diversity and adaptability of pathogen populations can help assess the impacts of agroecological practices on disease dynamics. Our work on arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi and their role in enhancing plant resistance to biotic and abiotic stressors can be used to support the adoption of agroecological practices that promote soil health and plant-microbe interactions. We can analyze different crop rotation and cover cropping scenarios to determine the most effective combinations for improving soil health, reducing disease pressure, and enhancing crop productivity.
The Estonian University of Life Sciences (EMÜ) is dedicated to the sustainable development of natural resources, preserving heritage and habitat, and advancing environmentally friendly technologies. According to QS World University Rankings by Subject (2024), the Estonian University of Life Sciences is one of the top 100 universities in the world in the field of agriculture and forestry, ranked 54. The university also belongs to the top 1% of most cited research facilities in the fields of plant and animal sciences, environment, and ecology in the world. With a mission to provide high-quality education and research that supports sustainable practices, EMÜ plays a crucial role in contributing to society's and the environment's well-being. The Chair of Plant and Crop Science is dedicated to advancing the understanding of crop biology and developing innovative solutions for sustainable agriculture.