Phytopathology ¶
Head: Dr. Simone Prospero
We investigate native and exotic pathogens of forest and ornamental woody plants in changing environments.
With our research we aim:
- To understand the biology of pathogen populations at different spatial and temporal scales
- To develop and improve methods for control of fungal diseases, with special emphasis on biological control with parasitic viruses
- To identify potential invasive pathogens and the danger they may cause in a new ecosystem
- To develop and implement modern diagnostic methods for tree pests and pathogens
- To provide the basis for supporting federal and cantonal authorities in the prevention and containment of quarantine pathogens.
To fulfil legal requirements when working with quarantine pathogens, we operate fully equipped, state-of-the-art plant protection laboratories and greenhouses of biosafety level 2 and 3.