Irene Pagliarani

Supervisors: Prof. Monica Agnolucci and Prof. Alessandra Turrini

Research field: Microbiology

Research interests: environmental microbiology, arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi, microbial biostimulants, sustainable agriculture

DAFE – University of Pisa, Via del Borghetto n°80, 56124 – Pisa – (IT)
irene.pagliarani@phd.unipi.it

She received her Master’s Degree in Plant and Microbial Biotechnology in 2022 at the Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment (DAFE), University of Pisa, with a thesis on the influence of different urban pavements on arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal communities associated with ornamental trees. In 2022 she won a research grant in the field of agricultural microbiology, and she worked for one year in the same Department (DAFE). The activity was mainly focused on the study of beneficial microbial communities characterizing agro-environmental matrices. From April 2023 to November 2023, she continued working on this topic with a research grant on the molecular and functional characterization of beneficial microorganisms in food and environmental matrices. Her research interests are focused on agricultural microbiology particularly on beneficial soil microorganisms such as arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) and plant growth promoting bacteria (PGPB) for their application in sustainable agriculture. Throughout her professional journey she has acquired expertise in molecular and culture-dependent techniques to analyse the complex microbial diversity in different types of matrices. Author of 3 papers in international journals and 7 contributions in international conferences. Currently, she is a PhD student in Agriculture, Food and Environment. Her PhD research is related to the utilization of native AMF as inoculants for alternative and sustainable weed management in agricultural soils aiming at reducing the use of herbicides.

The Department of Agricultural, Food and Agro-environmental Sciences at the University of Pisa, the oldest Agricultural School in Italy, is dedicated to addressing the challenges of the future. Agricultural Sciences are essential for community well-being and economic development, despite the small workforce in the primary sector in developed countries. With a focus on food security, a circular economy, quality of life, and environmental conservation, the department plays a pivotal role in establishing sustainable agri-food production systems. Through impactful research, high-quality education, and community services, the department generates technological innovations for socio-economic advancement. The department’s study programs equip students with specialized knowledge, practical skills, and critical awareness. By combining theoretical and practical approaches, students are prepared for job opportunities and personal growth. Faculty members conduct interdisciplinary research and collaborate with local and international partners to foster innovation and address agricultural challenges.