Latest News
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
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 member 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!!