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Harnessing microbiology to tackle global challenges

A researcher using a plastic syringe to apply liquid to the leaf of a plant

Plant-Microbe Interactions

Mutualism, Symbiosis, Pathogenesis

Microbial pathogens are a major problem for agriculture worldwide, causing crop losses worth billions of pounds every year. Conversely, many soil-dwelling microorganisms form important and beneficial relationships with plants. This includes symbiotic archaea, bacteria and fungi that suppress pathogens and produce potentially useful natural products.

Research groups at Norwich Research Park study the various aspects of these plant-microbe interactions, from root colonisation and signalling to pathogen infection and plant immunity. The aim is to develop strategies for sustainable and resilient agriculture, mitigating crop losses to improve food security and advance our understanding of ecosystem dynamics.