Institut De Recerca I Tecnologia Agroalimentaries

Host Institution: UFZ Helmholtz Zentrum für Umweltforschung

Project Title: Preparation and inoculation of barley (Hordeum vulgare) plants with synthetic microbial communities derived from the barley rhizosphere to increase their drought stress tolerance.

“During the short-term scientific mission conducted at the UFZ Helmholtz Center for Environmental Research I had the opportunity to learn how to prepare and apply bacterial synthetic communities (SynComs) to help barley withstand heat and drought stress. The STSM was an enriching experience both professionally and personally since I had the opportunity to practice my German speaking skills and got acquainted with culture from central Germany. Additionally, I got to extend my professional network by discussing on-going experiments and possible future collaborations. I would recommend such an exchange since it can help boost your scientific career in more than one way.”

Universidad Publica De Navarra

Host Institution: University of Vienna

Project Title: Connecting nitrate sensing and the ethylene-mediated inhibition of symbiotic nitrogen fixation in Medicago truncatula

“Thanks to the support of the Short-Term Scientific Missions of Cost action ROOT-Benefit, I conducted a two-month research stay at the University of Vienna, focusing on phosphoproteomics experiments for protein identification. This experience enhanced my research skills, allowing me to build networks with fellow scientists, share techniques, and refine my communication abilities. Practically, I advanced my expertise in protein extraction and handling by applying sophisticated phosphoproteomics methods, such as optimizing phosphopeptide extraction protocols and enriching them. Additionally, I gained technical proficiency in handling plant materials, developed competencies in post-translational protein analysis, and improved my capability to design, execute, and optimize complex experiments. This work also strengthened my problem-solving skills, particularly for sample quality and efficiency, an essential aspect of molecular biology research.”

Aarhus Universitet

Host Institute: University of Tartu

Project Title: AMF-BIOPRO

“Through the Root-Benefit Program, I had the opportunity for an incredible short stay at the University of Tartu, diving into research on soil health and the diversity and abundance of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi. This experience equipped me with hands-on skills in DNA extraction and bioinformatics, all while immersing myself in Estonia’s vibrant culture and the inspiring setting of a nearly 400-year-old university!”

Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC) – Estación Experimental delZaidin

Host Institute: The Institute for Mediterranean and Subtropical Horticulture “La Mayora” (IHSM)

Project Title: Standardization of methodologies for the analysis of root exudates and marker genes in tomato plants inoculated with beneficial microorganisms subjected to water stress.

“Thanks to the EU-funded COST Action ROOT-BENEFIT, which supported my STSM in 2024, I had the opportunity to work hands-on the analysis of multiple -omics data, generated in my research group “Mycostress” at the EEZ-CSIC (Spain), with experts of the group “Omics approaches” from NIB in Slovenia. Intended for eventual practical application in sustainable agriculture, the results obtained will provide new insights into the regulatory mechanisms leading to effective mycorrhiza-induced resistance against pests. Thus, these STSMs are very useful initiatives because they encourage interaction between research groups, as well as scientific progress and professional growth in a way that would not otherwise be possible.”