Markers, genetic maps and marker-assisted selection, genetic transformation, in-vitro culture, somatic embryogenesis and hybridization, bioenergetics and biomembranes, plant stress physiology, plant nutrition, genome structure and function, metagenomics gene expression, in situ hybridization.

BIOLOGY AND LIVESTOCK SCIENCE

Animal feeding and nutrition, dietetics, hygiene and safety of feeds, low input livestock systems, livestock systems for high quality foods, animal biodiversity and genetics, marker assisted selection, GWAs, metagenomics, nutrigenomics, animal biotechnology, biotechnology of animal reproduction, fish biology and aquaculture, wilde life management.

BIOLOGY OF PATHOGEN AND PLANT DEFENCE

Innovative methods for pathogen and pest control. Biological, molecular and taxonomic characterization of arthropods, fungal, bacterial and viral pathogens. Signals and responses during host interaction with pathogens and parasites. Biotechnology of phytopathogens.

Educational aims

The first educational objective of the doctoral school is to develop the student to have a critical shift towards the analysis of research problems and to equip them to find the conceptual and methodological means for problem solving.
To stimulate the students in acquiring expertise in managing research tools, protocols and processes. Safety principles in research laboratory are also considered important in the background of young researchers.
To stimulate students to become familiar with basic research tools, information communication technologies, and software for online literature research. English language mastery is achieved through attendance of advanced courses, overseas training or internship and attendance of meetings and seminars.
To encourage research team work and interactions with other researchers, lab mates, technicians and visiting scientists. Students have to present reports of their activity and this helps improving their communication ability and facilitates the exchange of experiences.

Employment and perspectives

• research in public Institutions, organisations, and private companies
• management / technical positions in high-tech agri-food companies
• consultancy