Field-grown crops experience multiple abiotic and biotic environmental stresses that often occur sequentially. How do they cope with them? The answer to this question is critical to enhancing plant resilience in the face of climate change. We will study molecular and physiological mechanisms underlying drought and Botrytis as primary environmental constraints that can dramatically affect many plants. Faba bean, a key protein crop very susceptible to drought and Botrytis, was chosen for this study. We have developed massive genomic resources and novel germplasm, allowing us to fish for abiotic and biotic resilience genes. We aim to look at the hidden traits (root) conferring drought adaptation and their relations to stomatal activity; to unlock Botrytis resistance novel genes; and insight into sequential abiotic and biotic stress responses. Our project will advance knowledge about environmental stresses threatening plant production, thereby ensuring global food and protein security.

2024

2028