New location: Instituto de Ciencias de la Tierra

The overall goal of this Department is to obtain basic knowledge on the ecology, physiology, biochemistry, molecular biology and biotechnology of soil microbes (bacteria and fungi) of interest in forestry and agricultural systems. Particular emphasis is put on Rhizobeaceae and the Rhizobium-leguminosae symbiotic interactions, as well as on arbuscular mycorrhizas in relation to the mechanisms of tolerance against biotic and abiotic stresses and the revegetation of eroded Mediterranean soils. Studies on interactions of saprophytic microorganisms in the rhizosphere and their role in plant nutrition, as well as studies on the recycling of wastes by microorganisms are also being considered. The Department is also involved in studies on biological and functional diversity in rhizosphere microorganisms, and developing molecular tools of interest for rhizosphere biotechnology. The assessment of the biosecurity of inoculants in sustainable agronomic practices is also considered.