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Looking to Join PRIMA 2026 Consortium on Plant–Microbe Interactions and Climate-Resilient Agriculture
The Laboratory of Biodiversity and Valorization of Bioresources in Arid Zones (LR18ES36), based at the Faculty of Sciences of Gabes, University of Gabes (Tunisia), is a multidisciplinary research unit dedicated to the study and sustainable use of biological resources in arid and semi-arid environments. The laboratory focuses on plant–microbe interactions, microbial biodiversity, and the development of eco-friendly agricultural solutions. Its core research activities include the isolation and characterization of plant growth-promoting microorganisms (PGPR/PGPB), mycorrhizal fungi, and endophytes, as well as the evaluation of their roles in enhancing plant growth, productivity, and tolerance to abiotic stresses such as drought and salinity. The team combines field experiments, controlled environment studies, and advanced physiological, biochemical, and molecular approaches to investigate plant responses and microbial functions. Particular emphasis is placed on the development and application of biofertilizers, soil health improvement, and sustainable crop management strategies adapted to Mediterranean and arid agroecosystems. The laboratory is actively involved in national and international research collaborations and contributes to capacity building through training, supervision of students, and participation in scientific networks. Its research aims to support sustainable agriculture, environmental resilience, and the valorization of local bioresources in the context of climate change.

TOPICS

Topic 1.3.1-2026 (IA) Sustainable On-Site Transformation of Perishable Mediterranean Agri-food Products

KEYWORDS

Plant–microbe interactions; PGPR; biofertilizers; mycorrhizae; abiotic stress (drought, salinity); sustainable agriculture; soil health; microbiome; metagenomics; Mediterranean agroecosystems

DESCRIPTION

Dear Sir/Madam, We are seeking to join a PRIMA consortium focusing on plant–microbe interactions, biofertilizers, and sustainable agriculture, particularly within Mediterranean agroecosystems under climate change conditions. Our research group, based at the Laboratory of Biodiversity and Valorization of Bioresources in Arid Zones (LR18ES36), Faculty of Sciences of Gabes, University of Gabes (Tunisia), has strong expertise in plant–microbe interactions, especially the use of plant growth-promoting bacteria (PGPR/PGPB) and mycorrhizal fungi to enhance crop productivity and resilience under abiotic stress conditions such as drought and salinity. We are well positioned to contribute to multidisciplinary projects integrating agronomy, microbiology, molecular biology, and sustainable production systems. Within a consortium, we aim to actively contribute to: i. Isolation, characterization, and selection of beneficial microorganisms (PGPR, endophytes, mycorrhizae) for sustainable agricultural applications ii. Evaluation of plant–microbe interactions under abiotic stress conditions (drought, salinity, heat) through greenhouse and field experiments iii. Investigation of physiological, biochemical, and molecular responses of plants associated with beneficial microbes iv. Development and validation of biofertilizers to improve crop growth, yield, and stress tolerance v. Integration of omics approaches (metagenomics, transcriptomics) to better understand microbial communities and their functions vi. Contribution to sustainable agricultural practices and soil health improvement strategies We are particularly interested in joining consortia that include partners working on: Advanced microbial and molecular analysis platforms Functional genomics and microbiome studies Biofertilizer formulation and commercialization Sustainable agri-food systems and value chain development Through this collaboration, we aim to support the development of climate-resilient agricultural systems, enhance soil fertility, and promote environmentally friendly farming practices, contributing to sustainable agriculture and food security in PRIMA countries. We would be pleased to discuss potential collaboration opportunities and provide further information if needed. Dr. MAHDHI Mosbah Email: [email protected]

REMARKS

ORGANIZATION

university of Gabes

TYPE OF ORGANIZATION

Research Organisation (Public)

COUNTRY

Tunisia

contact person

+21653955710

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