Tasks

• Head of the Virology Group
• Identification, characterization, and systematic assessment of viruses and viroids affecting fruit crops and woody plants.
• Virome analysis using high-throughput sequencing combined with population genetics and evolutionary approaches to develop, optimize, and validate molecular detection and diagnostic methods.
• Investigation of viral replication, host specificity, plant–virus interactions, and transmission pathways in perennial crops.
• Development of scientific foundations to reduce virus-related damage and to support sustainable plant protection strategies in fruit crops and viticulture.