A quick look at our week: research, education and inspiration!
On Monday 29 September, our colleague Ion Gherase defended his doctoral thesis, entitled: “The impact of climatic conditions on the productivity traits of pea breeding lines in the germplasm collection at VRDS Buzau” , an important step in his professional development and in strengthening our expertise in vegetable research.
From 30 September to 3 October 2025 we took part in the Joint ESENIAS & DIAS Scientific Conference 2025, hosted by USAMV Bucharest, on the theme “Invasive alien species in a changing climate: Challenges for ecosystem resilience”.
At the conference, Dr Eng. CS II Elena Barcanu gave a plenary presentation on the use of beneficial microorganisms for the natural control of nematodes (Meloidogyne spp.). The study shows how chemical solutions can be replaced with sustainable biocontrol techniques , protecting the soil, the plants and consumers’ health.
The conference brought together researchers, experts, practitioners and enthusiastic young people to exchange experience, debate innovative strategies for managing invasive species and strengthen regional collaboration.
Participants also had the chance to explore Comana Nature Park, a living example of biodiversity, ecological restoration and the meeting point between agriculture and conservation.
On Friday we had the honour of hosting a delegation of Erasmus pupils from Croatia, Greece and Spain, as part of the “Future Guardians: Cultivating Eco-Leadership in Young Minds” programme. We presented our work, the importance of ecology and how it connects with the mission of VRDS Buzau, and then invited them to discover Romanian vegetable species and take part in a tasting.
This week we were also involved in the Bucharest Food Summit , where essential topics were debated: food sustainability, short supply chains and the role of research institutions in transforming the agricultural sector.
These experiences strengthen our conviction that innovation, education and collaboration are the key to responsible, resilient and environmentally friendly agriculture.
