Advanced Research on Viroid Pathogenesis and Control for Agricultural Sustainability

Viroids, the smallest infectious pathogens, cause crop losses in the millions of euros every year and affect crop yields and quality worldwide. Climate change allows viroids to invade new geographical areas and hosts, posing a threat to global food security.

ViroiDoc is an international, multidisciplinary and cross-sectoral PhD network that aims to thoroughly understand and tackle viroids in line with the European Green Deal and the Farm-to-Fork strategy for sustainable crop production and food security.

To achieve this, ViroiDoc will: (i) fill knowledge gaps in molecular pathogenesis and host interactions of viroids, (ii) assess the impact of climate change on viroid infection, (iii) characterize emerging viroids and viroid-like RNAs in plants and fungi, iii) develop innovative CRISPR/Cas and sensor-based diagnostics for early detection of viroid infections, and iv) provide viroid interventions, including breeding targets, antiviroidal agents, and RNA-based biopesticides.

ViroiDoc's mission is to prepare 10 doctoral students (DCs) for careers in molecular biology, bioinformatics, research, product and service development in European agriculture and innovation development.

The ViroiDoc consortium, composed of researchers with complementary expertise in basic research (molecular biology, biotechnology, genetics, bioinformatics), applied sciences (nano- and sensor technologies) and innovation development (plant protection, plant diagnostics, plant breeding), will provide DCs with excellent scientific, methodological and soft skills.

Exposure to an international environment and different industries will allow them to build a valuable network of contacts, providing a solid foundation for future research collaborations and direct employment opportunities.

Finally, ViroiDoc will contribute to European research excellence, foster technology transfer and raise awareness of viroid issues, thus improving food safety and the sustainability of agriculture in Europe and beyond.