Empowering Agricultural Innovation: Enhancing Genomic Techniques for Sustainable Crop Improvement in Moldova

This project addresses the growing need to enhance agricultural resilience in Moldova by introducing advanced genetic manipulation techniques to improve crop production, particularly in light of climate change and increasing pathogen threats. While Europe has made strides in adopting modern genomic tools for agriculture, Moldova remains behind due to limited access to these technologies. The Institute of Experimental Botany of the Czech Academy of Sciences (IEB), in collaboration with Moldova State University’s Laboratory of Molecular Genetics, will work to bridge this gap. The primary focus of this initiative is to train Moldovan researchers in state-of-the-art genomic techniques, such as RNA sequencing and plant genome modification, which are crucial for improving crop resistance to pathogens like Candidatus Phytoplasma solani. Through knowledge exchange and hands-on training, the project will enable the Moldovan team to develop their capacity for genetic research and application in plant breeding, directly benefiting local agricultural practices and food security.

By providing specialized training and fostering scientific collaboration, this project will empower Moldova State University’s laboratory to incorporate modern techniques into their research. It will not only enhance their understanding of plant pathogen resistance but also facilitate the development of genetically modified plants that can withstand environmental stressors and pathogens. The project will be implemented in three stages: an initial internship at IEB for Moldovan researchers, a collaborative application of learned techniques in Moldova, and a final training phase that includes advanced genetic analysis. The expertise and knowledge shared by IEB, a leader in experimental botany, will be integral in shaping Moldova’s agricultural research landscape, helping the country to implement innovative solutions for sustainable food production and environmental resilience.