Laboratory of AppliedMicrobial Ecology
Biomonitoring and Bioprospecting
Our research focuses on extremophilic bacteria, particularly psychrotolerants from Arctic and Antarctic regions, metallotolerants, and strains resistant to toxic compounds (including antibiotics). Using structural and functional genomics, we investigate their metabolic pathways and resistance mechanisms, with an emphasis on whole-genome sequencing and mobile genetic elements (MGEs). We apply advanced computational analyses to explore the ecological and evolutionary roles of MGEs and their biogeography.
We assess the taxonomic and functional diversity of microbial communities in pristine and anthropogenically-shaped environments, aiming to understand adaptation and seasonal microbiome dynamics. One of the key research areas is the ecological and molecular characterization of antibiotic resistance, supported by our custom-developed bioinformatic tools and curated databases.
We also conduct biomonitoring studies focused on the detection and analysis of pathogens, antibiotic resistance genes, and virulence factors across diverse environments. These efforts support applications in both human and veterinary medicine, enhancing our understanding of the environmental reservoirs and transmission routes of clinically relevant traits.
In parallel, we engage in bioprospecting of extreme environments for microbial strains, novel enzymes, and metabolites with high biotechnological potential, including their applications in regenerative agriculture and environmental biotechnologies.
We assess the taxonomic and functional diversity of microbial communities in pristine and anthropogenically-shaped environments, aiming to understand adaptation and seasonal microbiome dynamics. One of the key research areas is the ecological and molecular characterization of antibiotic resistance, supported by our custom-developed bioinformatic tools and curated databases.
We also conduct biomonitoring studies focused on the detection and analysis of pathogens, antibiotic resistance genes, and virulence factors across diverse environments. These efforts support applications in both human and veterinary medicine, enhancing our understanding of the environmental reservoirs and transmission routes of clinically relevant traits.
In parallel, we engage in bioprospecting of extreme environments for microbial strains, novel enzymes, and metabolites with high biotechnological potential, including their applications in regenerative agriculture and environmental biotechnologies.
