Everything you need to know as a company
Microbiology for healthy soils and thriving ecosystems
The Applied and Agro-Environmental Microbiology Lab investigates how microbes can regulate natural cycles, reduce environmental pollution and support the health of both humans and the planet.
Though invisible to the naked eye, microbes are crucial for life on our planet. The Applied and Agro-Environmental Microbiology Lab closely examines microbes to understand how bacteria, fungi, archaea and viruses can maintain soil fertility, purify water and even degrade pollutants – and how we can harness their potential for a more sustainable future.
The lab’s research spans the areas of agriculture, forestry, high mountain ecosystems and urban environments. Advanced methods such as metagenomics, proteomics and metabolomics – combined with traditional cultivation and physiological characterisation – are used to investigate the roles microbes play in natural cycles. We also explore how climate change, land management practices and environmental pollution impact microbiomes, from plant rhizospheres to sediments and rock surfaces.
Another core focus is the One Health framework. Microbial research delivers valuable insights into monitoring antibiotic and heavy metal resistance across environmental and societal contexts, supporting the development of targeted, evidence-based solutions. Collaboration with regional public health and hygiene authorities enhances the practical relevance of these findings.
Equipped with state-of-the-art technology – from portable Oxford Nanopore sequencers and microscopy systems to specialised bioinformatics servers – the lab offers a comprehensive environment for research, innovation and creative collaboration.
The advantage for you
Broad scope: soils, plants, water and atmosphere
Integration of classical & molecular microbiology
Focus on One Health framework & environmental health
Interdisciplinary collaboration
Our services
Characterisation of environmental microbiomes
Isolation & characterisation of bacteria & fungi
Monitoring of resistance & environmental pollution
Assessment of biodegradation potential of complex molecules (including plastics, aromatic compounds and other xenobiotics)
Reconstruction of environmental nutrient cycles, including nitrogen, carbon and heavy metals
Development of sustainable solutions for agriculture & forestry
Consulting & collaboration on research projects
Key tools
Oxford Nanopore MinION™ Mk1B, Illumina Shotgun Sequencing
Bioinformatics server with specialised pipelines
PCR & qPCR thermal cyclers
Microscopes (optical, epifluorescent, confocal)
Biolog and Omnilog systems, air samplers
