RESEARCH TOPICS FOR XL CYCLE – Main selection procedure with grant
1 (one) position with grant to be carried out mainly at the University of Modena and Reggio Emilia (Italy) on the following Research topic:
The role of gut microbial metabolites of dietary phenolic compounds in colon cancer prevention
Title: The role of gut microbial metabolites of dietary phenolic compounds in colon cancer prevention
Scientific tutor: Davide Tagliazucchi, Angela Conte
Hosting Institution: University of Modena and Reggio Emilia (Italy)
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second cause of mortality and morbidity in the European Countries and is primarily affected by lifestyle and in particular by diet. Colon cancer prevention is a priority for public health also considering that modifiable lifestyle factors, such as diet, are of paramount importance in the occurrence and progression of CRC. Various epidemiological and prospective observational studies have suggested that diets rich in vegetable foods and phenolic compounds (such as Mediterranean Diet) may be protective against the onset of CRC. The interactions between gut microbiota and diet, and in particular, the production of gut microbiota metabolites significantly affect the intestinal epithelial cells homeostasis. Phenolic compounds are thoroughly modified by colonic microbiota producing low molecular weight phenolic acids (the gut microbial metabolites of phenolic compounds) that may have an impact on colon cancer cells behaviour. Therefore, the objectives of the research activity will focus on the study of the molecular mechanisms at the basis of the preventive role of gut microbial metabolites of dietary phenolic compounds on colon cancer. Specific activity of the PhD student will involve among others: (i) identification of gut microbial metabolites of dietary phenolic compounds after in vitro digestion and colonic fermentation of vegetable foods by high-resolution mass spectrometry; (ii) identification of the molecular mechanisms of anti-cancer activity of gut microbial metabolites of dietary phenolic compounds by using 2D and 3D colon cancer cell lines by applying a multi-omics approach; (iii) identification of the cellular mechanisms associated with the anti-inflammatory activity of gut microbial metabolites of dietary phenolic compounds on colon cancer cell lines by a multi-omics approach.
The candidate should have knowledge on the in vitro gastro-intestinal digestion models, mass spectrometry analysis and cell culture techniques. The PhD student is required to spend a period abroad of 6 months.
1 (one) position with grant to be carried out mainly at the University of Modena and Reggio Emilia (Italy) on the following Research topic:
Integrated approaches of precision farming – crop physiology, management and agricultural engineering for improving sustainability of open-field horticultural crops
Title: Integrated approaches of precision farming – crop physiology, management and agricultural engineering for improving sustainability of open-field horticultural crops
Scientific tutor: Enrico Francia; Roberta Martelli; Federica Caradonia
Hosting Institution: University of Modena and Reggio Emilia (Italy)
The project aims at an integrated approach between differentiated agronomic practice management and site-specific digital sensing technologies for soil and vegetation characteristics of open-field horticultural crops. The project intends to use proximal sensors to assess soil variability and multispectral imaging sensors to assess crop heterogeneity managed in high and/or low input systems and subjected to innovative fertiliser treatments (e.g. biochar, PGPR, AMF). The activity will involve: (1) definition of soil variability maps by means of electromagnetic induction sensors and their validation with traditional analyses; (2) application of products both in the nursery and in the open field, in liquid phase or by means of solid substrate; (3) identification of remote sensing platforms and vegetation indices capable of detecting crop variability; (4) evaluation of the effects of interventions with innovative fertilisers on crop development, yield and quality parameters using a traditional and spectral imaging approach; (5) validation of digital site-specific sensing technologies through comparison with traditional phenotypic and ecophysiological measurements. The setting up of the experimental fields and the surveys will take place in the main growing areas of the selected horticultural species within the Emilia-Romagna Region. For the success of the project, the candidate will spend a period of at least 6 months at one or more foreign research institutes, where he/she will be able to develop further knowledge in the field of precision agriculture applied to horticultural crops.
1 (one) position with grant to be carried out mainly at the University of Modena and Reggio Emilia (Italy) on the following Research topic:
Unravelling yeast biodiversity to improve fermented food quality and sustainability (BYO)
Title: Unravelling yeast biodiversity to improve fermented food quality and sustainability (BYO)
Scientific tutor: Lisa Solieri
Hosting Institution: University of Modena and Reggio Emilia (Italy)
Yeasts, usually defined as unicellular fungi, occur in various fungal lineages. Hence, they are not a taxonomic unit, but rather represent a fungal lifestyle shared by several unrelated lineages. The present PhD project aims at exploiting this biodiversity to identify novel cell factories to be exploited in beer and wine fermentation, the two main fermentative beverages worldwide. The activities will include: i) the collection of yeasts from different environments; ii) the investigation of their fermentative lifestyle (Crabtree positive vs. Crabtree negative phenotype); iii) the profiling of carbon and nitrogen substrate utilization; iv) the design of different inoculation schemes to use novel yeast candidates in co-culture or sequential fermentation with Saccharomyces cerevisiae. As a key for fulfilling all the objectives, the BYO project will be based on a multidisciplinary structure including omics, microbiological, biotechnological, and data analysis tools. To guarantee the scheduled timeline, the whole activities will be organized in a work-package system.
Within this PhD, a period of research to conduct in a foreign research institute (minimum 6 months, not necessarily consecutive), is planned.
Required skills: basic knowledge in microbiology, bioinformatics, and data analysis; high motivation to build up and conduct research activity at the home institution and in international research teams. Critical view of drawbacks and results analysis, high capacity to communicate results orally and in preparing scientific reports.
1 (one) position with grant to be carried out mainly at the University of Modena and Reggio Emilia (Italy) on the following Research topic:
Exploring the interaction of gut bacteria with the host
Title: Exploring the interaction of gut bacteria with the host
Scientific tutor: Maddalena Rossi
Hosting Institution: University of Modena and Reggio Emilia (Italy)
The gut microbiota has been identified as a key player in controlling mucosal immune tolerance and reprogramming the immune responses. Gut dysbiosis, i.e. the alteration in the composition and function of the microbiome is at the basis of several diseases through the loss of protective bacterial populations and the enrichment of pathobionts. Aim of the project is to deeply investigate the role of unexplored bacteria of human gut microbiome, including pathobionts, with a combined approach of culturomics and genomics, mechanistically dissecting the functional interaction of the immune system with gut bacteria.
1 (one) position with grant to be carried out mainly at the University of Almeria (Spain) on one of the following Research topics:
- Functional Genomics in Cucurbita spp.
- Artificial Pollination of Dragon Fruit (Hylocereus sp)
Title: Functional Genomics in Cucurbita spp.
Scientific tutor: Manuel Jamilena, Cecilia Martínez
Hosting Institution: University of Almeria (Spain)
Cucurbita is one of the most diverse plant genera. Among the cultivated species of the genus C. pepo is the most important. The development of sequencing tools in this and other nearby species is allowing to deepen functional genomics studies. This PhD will explore the variability resources conserved in germplasm banks, as well as a TILLING platform already generated and sequenced. The goal of this PhD is to study characters of agronomic interest related to fruit production and quality in the global warming era. This includes sex expression and determination, fruit set and fruit quality parameters.
A period of research will be conducted in a foreign research institute.
Required skills: 1) high motivation to plan and conduct research activities both at the home institution and in international research teams. 2) Open-minded attitude. 3) Critical view of drawbacks and results analysis, 4) high capacity to communicate results orally and in preparing scientific reports. 5) Experience in the use of software for statistical data processing (possibly “R” software) or interest in learning.
Title: Artificial Pollination of Dragon Fruit (Hylocereus sp)
Scientific tutor: Julián Cuevas
Hosting Institution: University of Almeria (Spain)
Research topic: This PhD aims to improve hand-pollination in an emergent tropical fruit crops known as pitaya, pitahaya and dragon fruit. Different species of climbing cactus of the genus Hylocereus and Selenecereus open their flowers at night and are pollinated either by bats and/or large moths. Because of the absence of natural pollinators in Europe, and pitaya self-incompatibility and herkogamy, pollination has to be performed manually at night or early morning increasing noticeably production costs. This PhD will pursue improving hand pollination programs by:
1) Increasing the efficacy of different methods for pollen collection using diverse devices. Pollen yield, viability, and efficiency will be compared.
2) Extend pollen storage. Since dragon fruit blooms in waves and is often self-incompatible, medium and long-term pollen storage is needed. Different procedures will be explored.
3) Testing different times (hours), genotypes, and procedures to perform artificial pollination. Pollen viability, pollen-pistil interaction and seeding and their effects on fruit quality will be analyzed under various conditions.
This PhD will be developed in the context of a recent funded Project ending in 2027, so the means to carry out the research and the collaboration in an international lab is assured. The field activities will be organized by semesters and combined with work in the lab. Within this PhD, a period of research in a foreign partner University during 6 months, not necessarily consecutive, is scheduled.
Required skills: high motivation to conduct research activity at the home institution and in international research teams, working nicely in a research group. Ability to communicate with end-users (farmers) and agronomists. Critical mind and capacity to analyze statistically the results and proposed alternatives. High capacity to prepare scientific reports.
1 (one) position with grant to be carried out mainly at the Polytechnic University of Coimbra (Portugal) on one of the following Research topics:
- Functional yoghurt and cheese enhanced with microalgae bioactive compounds
- Production of phycobiliproteins from cyanobacteria and microalgae for skin protection and healing wounds
- Advancing Sustainable Food Products Through Innovative Alternative Protein Sources
- Utilization of Agricultural Byproducts for the Development of Sustainable Cosmetic Products
Title: Functional yoghurt and cheese enhanced with microalgae bioactive compounds
Scientific tutor: Rui Costa, Carlos Dias Pereira, Tania Mazzuca Sobczuk.
Hosting Institution: University of Coimbra (Portugal)
This study explores the incorporation of microalgae, specifically Arthrospira platensis and Chlorella vulgaris, into yogurt and cheese to enhance their nutritional profiles with vitamins, minerals, proteins, and omega-3 fatty acids. It investigates the stability and bioavailability of these nutrients during processing and storage, evaluates the potential health benefits such as anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, and immune-boosting properties, and examines the use of microalgae pigments as natural colorants and stabilizers. Additionally, the research assesses consumer acceptance of these fortified products and characterizes their rheological and textural properties.
The thesis will be structured in four main research areas: 1) incorporating different species of microalgae in yoghurt and cheese; 2) evaluating its rheological, textural and sensory properties; 3) evaluating its nutritional and health benefits; 4) studying the stability during processing and storage of all properties. The PhD work will take place in Portugal (Coimbra) and Spain (Almeria).
Required skills: 1) high motivation to build up and conduct research activities both at the home institution and in international research teams. 2) Open-minded attitude. 3) Critical view of drawbacks and results analysis, 4) high capacity to communicate results orally and in preparing scientific reports.
Title: Production of phycobiliproteins from cyanobacteria and microalgae for skin protection and healing wounds
Scientific tutor: Rui Costa, Sonia Pinho, Tania Mazzuca Sobczuk.
Hosting Institution: University of Coimbra (Portugal)
Some microalgae and cyanobacters can produce phycobiliproteins, which are interesting compounds for the food, cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries. This PhD project will be focused in the production, separation and utilization of phycobiliproteins extracts from microalgae and cyanobacters, exploring their potential application in the cosmetic industry to promote sustainable sunscreen and wound dressings.
The project will be structured in four main research area: 1) culturing different species of microalgae and cyanobacters triggering phycobiliprotein production; 2) recovering phycobiliproteins by different extraction techniques; 3) formulating the product; 4) evaluating its potential as a photoprotective agent, as well as support for skin regeneration.
Within this PhD, a period of research to be conducted in a foreign research institute, other than Almería and Coimbra (tentatively Italy), is planned.
Required skills: 1) high motivation to build up and conduct research activities both at the home institution and in international research teams. 2) Open-minded attitude. 3) Critical view of drawbacks and results analysis, 4) high capacity to communicate results orally and in preparing scientific reports
Title: Advancing Sustainable Food Products Through Innovative Alternative Protein Sources
Scientific tutor: Marta Henriques, Carlos Dias Pereira, Davide Tagliazucchi
Hosting Institution: University of Coimbra (Portugal)
The project aims to explore and develop novel alternative protein sources that can help reduce the environmental footprint of traditional livestock production while meeting the growing demand for protein. These alternative proteins not only offer nutritional benefits comparable to conventional sources, but also provide opportunities for novel food formulations to meet diverse dietary preferences. Through advances in production technologies and evaluation of their environmental and socio-economic impacts, sustainable foods from alternative proteins promise to play a crucial role in shaping a more resilient and resource-efficient food system for the future.
This PhD proposal will focus on: 1) Identification, Production and Evaluation of the potential of innovative alternative protein sources for different food applications (e.g., algae, insects, fungi, cultured meat or others); 2) Characterization, nutritional quality assessment, and bioactivity profile (purity and amino acids profile, chemical composition, bioaccessibility, bioavailability, nutritional adequacy, techno-functional properties relevant for food formulation and human nutrition, in vitro digestion, bioactive peptides profiling, biological activity analysis); 3) Allergenicity and Safety Assessment (determination of allergenic polypeptides, antinutritional factors, safety data for commercialization, possible contaminants); 4) Exploration of Emerging Technologies (investigation of emerging technologies to improve protein extraction, purification processes, and functional properties of protein concentrates/isolates from alternative sources); 5) Development of Food Prototypes (preparation and optimization of food prototypes incorporating selected alternative proteins (e.g. fortified foods, meat substitutes, hybrid products) and evaluate consumer acceptance through sensory analysis and assess market readiness.
By leveraging scientific innovation and international collaboration, the project aims to contribute to the development of environmentally friendly food products that meet global dietary needs while promoting sustainable practices in agriculture and food technology.
Include a research period in a foreign institution (e.g., Italy).
Required skills: high motivation for interdisciplinary research in sustainable food systems. Open-minded approach to innovative solutions and critical analysis of research outcomes. Strong communication skills for collaborating in international research teams and presenting findings effectively.
Title: Utilization of Agricultural Byproducts for the Development of Sustainable Cosmetic Products
Scientific tutor: Marta Henriques; Ana Cristina Veloso
Hosting Institution: University of Coimbra (Portugal)
Agricultural by-products such as fruit pomace (grape, olive, small fruits) are often overlooked and discarded, yet they contain valuable bioactive compounds with significant potential for cosmetic applications. This PhD project aims to systematically identify, extract, characterise and apply these bioactive compounds from agricultural by-products to develop sustainable and effective cosmetic formulations. By emphasising the use of natural ingredients in cosmetics, the project aims to minimise waste and improve overall product sustainability. Through these efforts, the research aims to play a pivotal role in advancing the cosmetics industry towards sustainability by harnessing the latent value of agricultural by-products, thereby promoting circular economy practices and reducing environmental impact. The research will focus on: 1) Identification and Selection of various agricultural Byproducts (e.g, grape, olive and small fruits pomace) with potential for cosmetic applications. Characterizing the bioactive compounds (e.g., antioxidants, anti-inflammatory agents) present in these byproducts. 2) Combination of extraction methods and bioprocesses using specific microorganisms for the recovery/production of functional and bioactive compounds. Developing and optimizing extraction techniques (e.g., solvent extraction, supercritical fluid extraction) and bioprocesses (e.g. microorganisms’ type, process conditions and bioreactor type) to recover high yields of bioactive compounds. Purifying or concentrate the extracted/produced compounds to enhance their efficacy and stability for cosmetic formulations. 3) Formulation of Cosmetic Products. Incorporating the bioactive compounds into various cosmetic formulations (e.g., creams, serums, and exfoliants) ensuring its stability, safety, and efficacy through rigorous testing and optimization. 4) Evaluation of Cosmetic Benefits. Conducting in vitro and in vivo studies to assess the skin-protective, anti-aging, and anti-inflammatory effects of the formulated products. Comparing the performance of these natural, byproduct-derived ingredients with conventional synthetic ingredients. A period of research is planned in a partner Portuguese cosmetic company to gain knowledge of product formulation processes and in a foreign research institute. This will involve collaboration with experts in the field of natural product chemistry and cosmetic science.
Required skills: high motivation to develop and conduct research activities both at home and in international research teams. Openness to innovative and interdisciplinary research. Critical view of shortcomings and analysis of results. High ability to communicate results orally and to write scientific reports.
1 (one) position with grant to be carried out mainly at the Agricultural University of Iceland (Iceland) on the following Research topic:
Methane emissions from agricultural manure storages in the Arctic: quantification, mitigation strategies, and environmental impact
Title: Methane emissions from agricultural manure storages in the Arctic: quantification, mitigation strategies, and environmental impact
Scientific tutor: Jóhannes Sveinbjörnsson and Erla Sturludóttir
Hosting Institution: Agricultural University of Iceland (Iceland)
Methane (CH₄) is a potent greenhouse gas with a global warming potential higher than that of carbon dioxide (CO₂). Agricultural activities, particularly livestock manure management, are major contributors to methane emissions. This research aims to investigate methane emissions from manure storages in Iceland. In Iceland, livestock are kept indoors during the winter and graze outdoors during the short growing season. During the indoor housing period, manure is typically stored inside and then applied to fields in the spring. The unique climate of Iceland, known to influence methane emissions, must be carefully considered when determining these emissions. The main objectives of this project are: 1) to develop and refine methods for accurately measuring methane emissions from different types of manure storages; 2) to investigate the factors influencing methane emissions, including manure composition, storage conditions, and management practices; 3) to evaluate the effectiveness of various mitigation strategies; 4) to assess the broader environmental impacts of manure storage practices and mitigation strategies on soil, water, and air quality. This research will contribute to the scientific understanding of methane emissions from agriculture and support the development of effective mitigation strategies, thereby helping to reduce the environmental impact of agricultural practices.
Required skills: the student needs to have knowledge and understanding of agricultural practises and greenhouse gas dynamics. Experience with statistical analysis in R is also required.
1 (one) position with grant to be carried out mainly at the Agricultural University of Plovdiv (Bulgaria) on one of the following Research topics:
- Wildflower strips to enhance the role of the ecosystem service providers in oilseed rape
- Increase lacewing (Neuroptera: Chrysopidae) functional biodiversity to improve ecological services in agroecosystems
- Sustainable production systems in agriculture with socio-economic and environmental added value
- Circular bioeconomy – Innovative policies, technologies and good practices in the agro-food chain
Title: Wildflower strips to enhance the role of the ecosystem service providers in oilseed rape
Scientific tutor: Atanaska Stoeva
Hosting Institution: Agricultural University of Plovdiv (Bulgaria)
This PhD project aims at developing region-specific flower strips to attract, enhance, and sustain populations of important ecosystem service providers, with a primary focus on pollinators and natural enemies of pests, while minimizing the negative effects of supporting pest species. The study will involve: a) Assessing local wildflower species as potential candidates for inclusion in the flower mixtures; b) Evaluating the attractiveness of these species to flower visitors; c) Examining their ability to support pests that affect oilseed rape; d) Providing a list of species that can be utilized to create flower mixtures in oilseed rape specifically optimized for local conditions. Farmers often express uncertainty about adopting managed field margins. The hesitation can be partly due to cost-benefit concerns, and partly a matter of changing their established cropping practices. Additionally, insufficient knowledge contributes to the problem. To overcome these barriers, it is important to illustrate the benefits farmers can derive from establishing field margins and supporting functional insect groups. Providing adequate training on field margin maintenance and management is also essential. Within this PhD, a period of research to conduct in a foreign research institute (minimum 6 months, not necessarily consecutive), is planned.
Required skills: high motivation to build up and conduct research activity at the home institution and in international research teams. Critical view of drawbacks and results analysis, high capacity to communicate results orally and in preparing scientific reports.
Title: Increase lacewing (Neuroptera: Chrysopidae) functional biodiversity to improve ecological services in agroecosystems
Scientific tutor: Vili Harizanova
Hosting Institution: Agricultural University of Plovdiv (Bulgaria)
Lacewings (Neuroptera, Chrysopidae) play a key role in several important ecological services in agroecosystems, especially biological pest control. The aim of the research will be to evaluate the effect of natural habitats on the population of lacewings in agroecosystems located at different distances from natural areas. The lacewing population will be evaluated in the natural habitats and in differently managed agroecosystems located at different distances from the natural areas. Both short (a few hundred meters) and long distances (more than 2 km) will be considered. The lacewings population and the related ecological services (mainly biological control) will be evaluated both with traditional monitoring techniques (observational transects, pan traps) and with more recent sampling methods (e.g. larvae sampling, IOT sensors). In addition, to evaluate the spillover of lacewings from natural habitats to rural landscapes, the movement of species belonging to different ecological categories will be studied using specific chemical and physical techniques. The PhD student is required to spend a period abroad of 6 months.
Required skills: high motivation to build up and conduct research activity at the home institution and in international research teams. Critical view of drawbacks and results analysis, high capacity to communicate results orally and in preparing scientific reports.
Title: Sustainable production systems in agriculture with socio-economic and environmental added value
Scientific tutor: Dimo Atanasov, Rositsa Beluhova-Uzunova
Hosting Institution: Agricultural University of Plovdiv (Bulgaria)
Agriculture is main sector of the economy in all countries. It contributes to society in many ways – produces food and row materials, provides employment, etc. In the condition of limited natural resources and continuously growing population, as well as climate change, social, economic and market dynamics, agriculture encounters serious challenges in providing its main role – food security and food sovereignty. The main objective of this PhD research topic is to acquaint students with the peculiarities of agricultural production systems, to present the technologies for sustainable production of food in harmony with the environment, biodiversity and society. In the frame of the studies, variety of innovative technologies and conventional good practices are explained and strategies for long term sustainable development of farms and production systems are presented.
Required skills: Practically, in order to apply for PhD studies, candidates have to hold a “Master” level diploma, no matter from which scientific field. This topic is most suitable for graduates from the field of agronomy, social sciences, environmental sciences, biology, engineering etc. Candidates have to be motivated and dedicated to serious theoretical and practical research. They need to be organized, adaptive and have analytical skills and creativity.
Title of the Research Topic: Circular bioeconomy – Innovative policies, technologies and good practices in the agro-food chain
Scientific tutor: Dimo Atanasov, Rositsa Beluhova-Uzunova
Hosting Institution: Agricultural University of Plovdiv (Bulgaria)
This research topic is synchronized with the updated European Bioeconomy Strategy, which argues for the need to deal more effectively with global challenges arising from limited natural resources and unlimited societal needs, the EU's commitments to reduce carbon emissions and the transition to clean energy, policies to shorten, lighting and optimizing farm-to-table connections and more. For ensuring sustainable development of the economy and to improve the quality of life, specialists with systemic interdisciplinary knowledge and practical skills are needed to understand the functioning of ecological and social systems and to design the extractive, processing and production sectors according to biological cycles and the reproductive potential of natural resources. Bioeconomy covers the production of biomass (animals, plants, microorganisms); marine ecosystems and services; the primary production sectors (agriculture, forestry, fisheries and aquaculture); all economic and industrial sectors that use biological resources and processes to produce food, products, services, energy, etc. The foundation is in the understanding of the socio-economic thresholds of activity at which the biological system can be effectively and efficiently used without destroying the conditions for its regeneration and therefore its sustainability. Bioeconomy is also focused on the biological, economic, social, ecological and ethical realities of natural resource depletion, social disparities and living standards, consumer behavior and environmental externalities, etc. In this context, the study is based on the synergy between economics, biology, technology and innovations. The conceptual framework for the curriculum includes three pillars: sustainable biomass production; bioprocessing, conversion and recycling; circular economy and society in the context of globalization, climate change, political and economic instability.
Required skills: Practically, in order to apply for PhD studies, candidates have to hold a “Master” level diploma, no matter from which scientific field. This topic is most suitable for graduates from the field of agronomy, social sciences, environmental sciences, biology, biotechnology, engineering etc. Candidates have to be motivated and dedicated to serious theoretical and practical research. They need to be organized, adaptive and have analytical skills and creativity.
1 (one) position without grant to be carried out mainly at the University of Modena and Reggio Emilia (Italy) on the following Research topic:
Functional biodiversity of hoverflies and bees in an ecological rebalancing area and effects on surrounding agro-ecosystems
Title: Functional biodiversity of hoverflies and bees in an ecological rebalancing area and effects on surrounding agro-ecosystems
Scientific tutor: Lara Maistrello
Hosting Institution: University of Modena and Reggio Emilia (Italy)
Hoverflies and bees provide essential ecosystem services for agricultural production, including crop pollination and pest control. Intensive agriculture has a negative impact on biodiversity and related ecosystem services. The creation of ecological rebalancing areas can contribute to the restoration of biotic communities and the enhancement of ecological services in surrounding fields. This project will be carried out in the "Partecipanza Agraria" of Nonantola, in the north-east of Modena province. This area represents a peculiar form of collective management of agricultural land, where 10% of the territory has been renaturalised since the 1980s, creating the ecological rebalancing area "Il Torrazzuolo". This area, characterised by woods, meadows and wetlands, is recognised at European level as a Site of Community Importance (SCI).
The project aims to provide information on the functional biodiversity of hoverflies (Diptera, Sirphydae) and bees (Hymenoptera, Antophila) in this area, characterised by a complex network of ecological infrastructures, in comparison with nearby ecologically simplified areas. In addition, the pollination efficiency of hoverflies and bees on selected valuable crops will be evaluated.
The PhD student will support the project by improving basic and traditional entomological skills and techniques. Tasks will include the design of a monitoring scheme using different sampling methods (e.g. malaise traps, pan traps, observation plots) to collect information on the biodiversity of hoverflies and bees in the "Partecipanza Agraria" area. Both Syrphidae and Anthophila will be identified to species level and the PhD student will have the opportunity to improve his taxonomic knowledge of these two taxa. For this reason, a basic knowledge of hoverflies and/or bees is required for this position. The PhD project will focus on ecological services in rural landscapes, in particular pollination, and therefore basic experience on this topic will be important for the development of the project.