University of Patras
Department of Sustainable Agriculture
Laboratory of Systems Microbiology and Applied Genomics
Address: 2 Seferi st., Agrinio, 30131, Aetoloacarnania, Greece
Telephone: +302641074205
e-mail: lab.user.molgen@gmail.com
The laboratory of Systems Microbiology and Applied Genomics was established in 1998. It belongs to the Department of Environmental Engineering, of the University of Patras.
The laboratory is situated in the city of Agrinio, in western Greece. The area is known for its rich environmental resources, which include natural and artificial lakes, rivers, lagoons, coastlands, wetlands and a constantly alternating landscape of farmlands, hills, forests, woodlands, groves, mountain ranges and canyons.
This plethora of habitats sustains diverse (micro)organisms, allows local communities to engage in agriculture and aquaculture and renders the area ideal for environmental oriented activities and research.
Research Fields
Fish microbiome
We investigate the fish microbiome for interesting bacterial strains and try to decipher their function and effect on fish fitness. Such microorganisms may be found in the water or in fish tissues, such as the gastrointestinal tract. We also aim in identifying fish pathogens and develop means of suppressing them.
Insect microbiome
Symbiotic bacteria play important roles in insect physiology, affecting for example insect fitness and reproduction. They can be used in environmentally friendly techniques for the suppression or eradication of harmful insect pests for agriculture or human health. They can be used directly for suppression or indirectly, by enhancing the application of other related strategies.
Environmental samples
We also study the microbiome, either bacterial, fungal or viral, in a variety of environmental samples, including soil, sediment, water, air, plants and fruit. Similar studies are performed for the gut microbiome of livestock animals and humans.
Lab members
George Tsiamis
Head of the lab – Professor – Department of Sustainable Agriculture
Eva Dionysopoulou
Laboratory and Teaching personnel – Department of Sustainable Agriculture
Panayota Stathopoulou
Postdoctoral Researcher – Adjunct professor – Department of Sustainable Agriculture
Elias Asimakis
Postdoctoral Researcher – Adjunct professor – Department of Sustainable Agriculture
Naima Bel Mokhtar
Postdoctoral Researcher – Department of Sustainable Agriculture
Maria Lanara
Ph.D. Candidate – Department of Sustainable Agriculture
Georgia Apostolopoulou
Ph.D. Candidate – Department of Sustainable Agriculture
Yiannis Galiatsatos
Ph.D. Candidate – Department of Sustainable Agriculture
Partners - Collaborations
Throughout the years we have collaborated in the context of research projects with Greek and international laboratories, from Universities and research institutes, with the aim of promoting interdisciplinary collaborations. The lab continuously participates in Erasmus+ programs for the exchange of students, teaching and research personnel. Our network of partners and collaborators also includes international and local companies. In this way, we attempt to transform produced knowledge into practical application. We also participate in activities that promote the dissemination of knowledge to the local community.