Latest News
BiomeHealth Research Featured in the NEWS (PÚBLICO Newspaper)
The BiomeHealth Project was recently featured in PÚBLICO, one of Portugal's leading national newspapers, in a report published on 9 August 2026. Entitled "Scientists aim to detect Rocha pear diseases at an early stage", the article highlights research being conducted at the Faculty of Sciences of the University of Porto (FCUP) - LAQV-REQUIMTE to support the early detection and more sustainable management of diseases affecting 'Rocha' pear orchards.
The report presents the work of the team led by Conceição Santos, from iB2Lab/LAQV-REQUIMTE, and its efforts to anticipate the presence of plant pathogens before visible symptoms develop. The research combines molecular detection, the characterisation of plant- and environment-associated microbial communities, aerobiome monitoring and environmental variables such as temperature and humidity.
Several members of the research team contributed to the report. Nuno Mariz-Ponte discussed the importance of monitoring the aerobiome and connecting scientific research with the realities of orchards and growers. Catarina Leal highlighted the potential of these approaches to support more precise and targeted plant protection measures, while Laura Regalado presented ongoing epidemiological research on important pear pathogens, including Erwinia amylovora, the causal agent of fire blight, and Stemphylium vesicarium.
The article also introduces miCrop, a new laboratory at FCUP (LAQV-REQUIMTE) designed to strengthen the connection between scientific research and the agricultural sector through molecular diagnosis, pathogen detection, sample analysis and the development of applied solutions for plant health.
This national media coverage recognises the relevance of the research developed within BiomeHealth and its contribution to more informed, precise and sustainable crop protection. By enabling earlier interventions and supporting evidence-based decisions, the project aims to help growers reduce unnecessary treatments and respond more effectively to the plant health challenges affecting the 'Rocha' pear sector.
The report was written by Andréia Azevedo Soares, with photography by Manuel Roberto.
Read the full report in PÚBLICO - here
Successful Completion of the Training Course on Pathogen–Phytobiome–Exposome Interactions
The BiomeHealth Project successfully held the training course "Pathogen–Phytobiome–Exposome Interactions and Disease Progression" on 2–3 July 2026 at the Faculty of Sciences of the University of Porto (FCUP), Portugal.
Delivered by experts from the University of Bologna (UNIBO), the course provided participants with an opportunity to explore innovative approaches to understanding plant disease development and promoting more sustainable crop protection strategies.
The programme addressed a range of relevant topics, including biological control agent selection, plant disease epidemiology, exposome components, bacterial phenotyping, and plant–microbe signalling networks. By integrating these complementary perspectives, the course highlighted the importance of studying the complex interactions between pathogens, plant-associated microbial communities and environmental factors influencing disease progression.
The in-person format encouraged active participation, knowledge exchange and scientific discussion between trainers and participants, contributing to the development of new skills and strengthening collaboration within the BiomeHealth network.
The BiomeHealth Project thanks all the trainers and participants whose engagement and contributions made this training activity a success.
BiomeHealth Staff Visit Strengthens Scientific Collaboration and Engagement with the Portuguese Pear Sector
On 30 June and 1 July 2026, the BiomeHealth Project organised a staff visit at the Faculty of Sciences of the University of Porto (FCUP) and the INIAV Experimental Station in Alcobaça, in collaboration with COTHN.
The visit brought together teams from REQUIMTE, the UNIBO and WUR to discuss the progress achieved within the project and identify opportunities for future research and capacity-building activities.
A key component of the programme focused on the challenges affecting the pear production sector, particularly the Portuguese 'Rocha' pear. Researchers had the opportunity to share knowledge and recent scientific advances related to pear diseases, plant health and the development of more sustainable crop protection strategies with representatives from COTHN and INIAV.
During the visit to Alcobaça, the participants took part in a field visit that provided valuable insight into the practical challenges faced by growers and the sector. This exchange helped connect the research conducted within BiomeHealth with real production conditions and reinforced the importance of cooperation between research institutions and agricultural stakeholders.
The visit contributed to strengthening collaboration among the BiomeHealth partners and creating new opportunities for joint research, knowledge transfer and advanced training.
The BiomeHealth Project sincerely thanks Eng. Carmo Martins and Eng. Miguel Leão for their warm welcome, availability and valuable knowledge-sharing throughout the visit.
Registrations Open: Training Course on Pathogen–Phytobiome–Exposome Interactions and Disease Progression
The BiomeHealth Project is pleased to announce that registrations are now open for the Training Course: "Pathogen–Phytobiome–Exposome Interactions and Disease Progression", taking place on 2–3 July 2026 at the Faculty of Sciences, University of Porto (FCUP), Portugal.
This in-person course will explore innovative approaches to sustainable plant disease management, covering topics such as biocontrol agent selection, disease epidemiology, exposome components, bacterial phenotyping, and plant–microbe signalling networks, presented by experts from the University of Bologna (UNIBO).
Participation is free of charge, but registration is mandatory due to limited places.
👉 Register here: https://forms.gle/Ee5ZjdDV6YpWVsJs7
BIOMEHEALTH Spring School Addresses Plant Pathogen Detection in a Changing World
In March and April 2026, REQUIMTE/UP, in collaboration with Wageningen University & Research (WUR), organised the first BIOMEHEALTH Spring School, "Detection of Pathogens in a Changing World".
The three-day programme brought together participants from UP for an intensive training experience combining expert lectures, collaborative workshops and scientific discussions.
Participants explored the latest advances in plant pathogen detection, including antibody-based diagnostics, field-deployable technologies, CRISPR-based approaches, quarantine pest management and the impacts of climate change on plant disease emergence. A key component of the Spring School was a hands-on workshop on scientific communication, where participants worked in teams to develop evidence-based opinion articles addressing major challenges in plant health.
The Spring School provided a unique opportunity to combine cutting-edge scientific knowledge with practical communication skills, while fostering collaboration between international experts and early-career researchers within the BIOMEHEALTH network.
By strengthening expertise in pathogen surveillance, emerging diagnostic technologies and science communication, the activity directly supported the BIOMEHEALTH project's capacity-building objectives and reinforced the widening partner's ability to address future challenges in sustainable plant health management.
BiomeHealth Researcher Receives Poster Award at the 21st International Reinhardsbrunn Symposium
The BiomeHealth project is pleased to announce that Catarina Leal, a member of our research team, participated in the 21st International Reinhardsbrunn Symposium on Modern Fungicides and Antifungal Compounds, held in Friedrichroda, Germany.
The symposium brought together researchers and experts from around the world to discuss recent advances in fungicides and antifungal compounds, including topics such as molecular mechanisms of resistance, resistance modelling, and biocontrol strategies.
During the event, Catarina Leal was recognised with a Poster Award for her research presentation, joining a select group of award recipients acknowledged by the symposium organisers.
BIOMEHEALTH Advanced Course Explores Pathobiome Dynamics and Microbiome Research
In March 2026, REQUIMTE/UP, in collaboration with Wageningen University & Research (WUR), organised the second BIOMEHEALTH Advanced Course, "Theoretical and Practical Aspects of Pathobiome Dynamics".
The course combined two online training days with an intensive hands-on laboratory session at FCUP.
Participants were introduced to cutting-edge methodologies for studying plant-associated microbial communities, including aerobiome monitoring, DNA metabarcoding, bioinformatics workflows, MinION sequencing, spatial transcriptomics and microbial characterisation using IR-Biotyper technology.
The training provided an integrated overview of modern microbiome research by combining theoretical lectures with practical data analysis and laboratory activities, while fostering knowledge exchange between international experts and participants from diverse scientific backgrounds.
By strengthening expertise in microbiome and pathobiome research, the course contributed directly to the BIOMEHEALTH project's capacity-building objectives and reinforced the widening partner's ability to implement advanced molecular, computational and phenotypic approaches for plant health research and sustainable crop protection.
BIOMEHEALTH Training Course Strengthens Expertise in Genetic and Phenotypic Analysis of Plant Pathogens
Between December 2025 and January 2026, REQUIMTE/UP, in collaboration with Wageningen University & Research (WUR), organised the first BIOMEHEALTH Training Course, "Genetic and Phenotypic Analysis of Phytopathogens".
The course combined three online theoretical sessions with two intensive laboratory training days held at FCUP, bringing together 10 participants, including undergraduate and postgraduate students, researchers, and professionals from the plant protection sector.
Participants received hands-on training in state-of-the-art methodologies for plant pathogen detection and characterisation, including LAMP, TaqMan Real-Time PCR, RAPD fingerprinting, BIOLOG phenotypic profiling, DNA extraction, virulence assessment, and genomic approaches for pathogen surveillance and epidemiological studies.
The training provided a unique opportunity to integrate molecular, phenotypic and genomic techniques used in modern plant pathology, while promoting knowledge exchange between FCUP/REQUIMTE, Wageningen University & Research and external stakeholders.
By strengthening technical expertise in advanced plant disease diagnostics and pathogen monitoring, the course directly contributed to the BIOMEHEALTH project's capacity-building objectives and reinforced the widening partner's ability to implement cutting-edge methodologies for sustainable crop protection.
Biomehealth announces Spring School on "Pathogen detection in a changing world"
The Biomehealth project is pleased to announce the upcoming Spring School "Detection of Pathogens in a Changing World", taking place from March 31 to April 2, 2026.
This event will bring together leading international experts to explore innovative approaches to pathogen detection, with a strong focus on emerging challenges driven by climate change and globalization. The program combines lectures, hands-on sessions, and interactive workshops, offering participants a comprehensive learning experience.
Over the course of three days, participants will have the opportunity to engage with researchers and professionals from renowned institutions, covering topics such as:
Microbial culture collections and their role in the future of science
On-site detection methods
VHH antibodies and novel diagnostic tools
Pathogen behavior under climate change scenarios
Advances in plant health diagnostics and pest management
Scientific writing, through a dedicated workshop on opinion article development
The Spring School also includes practical group sessions, culminating in presentations and discussions of participants' work.
This initiative is aimed at students, researchers, and professionals in the fields of plant health, biotechnology, microbiology, and agricultural sciences.
👉 Registration is now open and can be completed via the following link: https://forms.gle/uv2tVC1LZheDafV48
Advanced Course: Theoretical and Practical Aspects of Pathobiome Dynamics
The BiomeHealth Project is organizing an Advanced Course on "Theoretical and Practical Aspects of Pathobiome Dynamics", designed to explore both conceptual and practical approaches for studying microbial communities associated with plant diseases.
The course combines online lectures delivered by international experts with a hands-on laboratory session, offering participants insights into cutting-edge technologies used in microbiome and aerobiome research.
Online Sessions
The online sessions will take place on 26 and 27 March 2026 (WET) and will cover key topics including sequencing technologies, diagnostic tools, and metabarcoding approaches for microbial community analysis.
Session 1 – 26 March (8:30–10:30 WET)
Kevin King and Patrick McClean (Rothamsted Research, UK)
minION sequencing and other diagnostic technologies: applied uses in monitoring the fungal aerobiome
Bart Fraaije (Wageningen University & Research, Netherlands)
Aerobiome sampling techniques
Session 2 – 27 March (10:00–12:30 WET)
Catarina Leal (REQUIMTE / University of Porto, Portugal)
DNA Metabarcoding: Principles and Applications for Microbial Community Analysis
Viola Kurm (Wageningen University & Research, Netherlands)
Metabarcode sequencing
Javier Batista Perez (STOmics, China) - Spatial Transcriptomics
In-Person Laboratory Session
An in-person laboratory session will be held on 30 March 2026 at the Faculty of Sciences, University of Porto (FCUP) in Porto, Portugal.
Participants will take part in hands-on activities, including:
> In silico approaches for metabarcoding analysis - Viola Kurm (Wageningen University & Research, Netherlands)
> Microbial characterization using IR-Biotyper technology - Nuno Mariz-Ponte and Marino Santos (REQUIMTE / University of Porto, Portugal )
Participation
Free of charge
Limited number of participants
Registration here:
👉 https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfo6I70HPAB-tXnIgco-GqI1Np-XboaQVHbuPFN0ZwhudEJKw/viewform?usp=dialog
Biomehealth Project Opens Research Fellowship in Phytopathogen Diagnosis
The Biomehealth project is pleased to announce the opening of a Research Fellowship focused on phytopathogen diagnosis, offering an exciting opportunity for early-career researchers (MSc) interested in plant health, molecular diagnostics, and sustainable agriculture.
The selected fellow will carry out research activities at REQUIMTE / University of Porto, with collaboration and scientific exchange involving Wageningen University & Research.
Research Focus
The fellowship will contribute to advancing innovative approaches for the detection and diagnosis of phytopathogens, supporting the development of tools that improve plant disease monitoring and management. This work is part of the broader Biomehealth project, which aims to promote healthier agricultural ecosystems and sustainable crop production.
What the Fellowship Offers
Participation in an international research collaboration
Access to state-of-the-art laboratories and expertise
Opportunities to work with leading scientists in plant pathology and diagnostics
Experience within a multidisciplinary European research environment
Who Should Apply
The call is open to motivated researchers with a strong background in biological sciences, particularly those interested in plant pathology, microbiology, molecular biology, or related fields.
How to Apply
Interested candidates can find full details about eligibility requirements, application procedures, and deadlines at the official Euraxess call:
👉 https://euraxess.ec.europa.eu/jobs/413703
We encourage qualified candidates to apply and join the Biomehealth project in advancing innovative solutions for plant health and sustainable agriculture.
Biomehealth Researcher Participates in Advanced Horizon Europe Proposal Writing Course
Nuno Mariz-Ponte, a researcher involved in the Biomehealth project at REQUIMTE / University of Porto, recently attended the Advanced Course on the "Master of Proposal Writing in Horizon Europe", an intensive training focused on strengthening skills for developing competitive research proposals under the Horizon Europe framework programme.
The course was led by expert proposal writer Jelena Kajganović and took place in Brussels, Belgium, on 17–18 February 2026.
The event brought together participants from several European institutions, fostering networking and knowledge exchange among organizations engaged in research, innovation, and policy development. Participants represented institutions including:
Neutralus klimatui Vilnius
The Open University
Munster Technological University
Sitra
KNAW Humanities Cluster
National Technical University of Athens
Università degli Studi di Padova
WestBIC
REQUIMTE
NorthDenmark EU-Office
Sciensano
Throughout the training, participants learned how to align innovative research ideas with the appropriate Horizon Europe call topics, ensuring proposals meet all programme requirements. The course also addressed key elements of successful applications, including cross-cutting priorities, expected impact, evaluation criteria, and submission procedures.
For the Biomehealth consortium, this advanced training represents an important step in strengthening the team's capacity to develop competitive European research proposals. The knowledge acquired during the course will support the consortium in identifying new funding opportunities, shaping future project ideas, and expanding international collaboration.
This experience reinforces Biomehealth's commitment to continuous capacity building and strategic engagement with European research and innovation programmes.
Laura Regalado Attends Prestigious Workshop on Genomics (Evomics) in Český Krumlov, Czechia
PhD candidate Laura Regalado, a member of the REQUIMTE research team, recently participated in the internationally renowned Evomics' Workshop on Genomics, held at Český Krumlov, Czechia from 11–24 January 2026.
The Evomics workshops are widely recognized for providing intensive, hands-on training in evolutionary and population genomics, bringing together researchers and students from around the world. During the two-week program, participants engage in lectures, computational training, and collaborative problem-solving sessions focused on modern genomic analysis methods.
Laura's participation represented an important capacity-building opportunity for the REQUIMTE team, strengthening expertise in genomic data analysis and advanced bioinformatics approaches. The knowledge gained during the workshop will directly contribute to ongoing research activities within the project, particularly the genomic analysis of the plant pathogen Erwinia amylovora, the bacterium responsible for fire blight disease in fruit trees.
By participating in this prestigious training initiative, Laura further reinforces the project's commitment to scientific excellence, international collaboration, and advanced training in genomics, supporting the development of innovative approaches for phytopathogen research.
BiomeHealth Researchers Gather at WUR for First Advanced Training Course
The first BiomeHealth advanced course, "Theoretical and practical aspects of LAMP, Luminex, RT-PCR, NGS, DAS-ELISA, Fluorescence/Confocal Microscopy to aid in pathogen detection and identification," took place at Wageningen University & Research (WUR) in the Netherlands from 24–27 November 2025.
Teachers from WUR welcomed participants from UP/REQUIMTE (Portugal), UNIBO (Italy) and WUR for four days of intensive, hands-on learning. The course explored the science behind key diagnostic tools used at WUR—such as ELISA, Luminex and molecular assays—and offered a deep dive into loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) and fungicide resistance detection.
During the workshop sessions, participants practiced selecting target genes, designing LAMP primers and running a full LAMP assay for Xanthomonas campestris pv. campestris. An interactive demonstration also showcased how fungicide resistance can be tested using both molecular and microbiological approaches.
The course marked an exciting start to BiomeHealth's training programme, strengthening collaboration and building skills for the next generation of plant pathogen researchers.
NEW Training Course December 2025/January 2026 at Porto (Portugal) - Application is now open!!
-> Genetic and Phenotypic Analysis on Phytopathogens
- Course Description
This course offers a comprehensive overview on detection, and genetic/phenotypic characterization of plant pathogens. Within online lectures and hands-on laboratory sessions, participants will explore modern diagnostic tools, molecular and genomic approaches, and learn how genomics supports early detection and disease management. Practical sessions include diagnosis and detection of plant pathogens using molecular approaches (e.g., LAMP, TaqMan, etc.). Characterizarion of pathogens' phenotype, e.g., virulence (Hypersensitive response) and corbon sources and biochemical sensivities (e.g., BIOLOG).
Scientific team:
- Bart Fraaije (WUR, Netherlands)
- Conceição Santos (REQUIMTE/FCUP, Portugal)
- Iris Bergervoet (WUR, Netherlands)
- João Pedro Marques (CIBIO/FCUP, Portugal)
- Laura Regalado (REQUIMTE/FCUP, Portugal)
- Nuno Mariz-Ponte (REQUIMTE/FCUP, Portugal)
- Viola Kurm (WUR, Netherlands)
- When/Where
Till 10 hours online (live) theorical-pratical lectures (December, 5th, 10th and 11th, 2025) and 14 hours of pratical (Lab) classes at Faculty of Sciences, University of Porto (FCUP) (January 15-16th, 2026).
- Application
Application deadline extended by November 14th
here --> https://forms.gle/5VYWwEyYPjn4tbXy7
Upcoming Advanced Course on Molecular Detection Techniques – November 2025
- Course Title
Theoretical and practical aspects of LAMP, Luminex, RT-PCR, NGS, DAS-ELISA, Fluorescence/Confocal laser microscopy to aid in pathogen detection and identification
- Course Description
This course offers a comprehensive overview of various molecular and microscopic detection techniques applied to different matrices, with a strong focus on both theoretical background and hands-on experience. Participants will explore methods for detecting resistance genes using LAMP, and learn about primer design, sequence alignment, and in silico evaluation during computer practicals. Practical sessions include counting and pipetting spores, conducting LAMP assays, and analyzing fungicide resistance test results. The course combines lectures, practical lab work, and computer-based assignments to ensure a well-rounded understanding of the detection tools.
- When/Where
From 24 till 27 November, at the campus of Wageningen University and Research (the Netherlands)
A BIOEHEALTH Researcher, Nuno Mariz-Ponte, attended an Advanced Course on the Molecular Characterization of Fungi at the Westerdijk Fungal Biodiversity Institute, Utrecht, Netherlands.
Given the high diversity of fungi and their specific requirements for species-level identification, our consortium benefited from high-quality training to address the challenges of fungal identification in this project. These newly acquired tools will enhance our ability to isolate and detect Stemphylium vesicarium and to identify potential biocontrol agents.
Seeking solutions to combat pathogens in pear trees!
Researchers from REQUIMTE/UP involved in the BIOMEHEALTH project were in the Azores to isolate Saccharomyces cerevisiae and its "killer" virus to fight against Erwinia amylovora and Stenphylium vesicarium – Novel toxin's solutions are expected soon...
follow this in @laqvrequimte - link
New UPDATE!!
Researchers from REQUIMTE/UP involved in the BIOMEHEALTH project carried out fieldwork in August in the Oeste region of Portugal to collect plant material from pear trees and soil. – A step forward in the characterization and control of Erwinia amylovora and Stenphylium vesicarium –
follow this in @laqvrequimte - link
1st Staff-visit at WUR took place in July 2025.
Coordination, sharing of project progress, technical demonstration of methodologies, and visits to orchards and facilities were the focus of this meeting.
The BIOMEHEALTH project is announcing the opening of two Post-Doc fellowship opportunities. Below are the links for potential applicants:
The project's first kickoff meeting took place on 14 January 2025!!