How can plants be bred to cooperate with the soil microbiome, mobilize nutrients more efficiently and at the same time improve the nutritional quality of our food?

Dr. Walter Goldstein from the Mandaamin Institute, USA, will present his results from many years of breeding and field trials and provide insights into microbial partnerships, the rhizophagy cycle and the importance of organic plant breeding for resilient food systems. His presentation also raises the question of how plants can be bred to promote indigenous microbial partnerships, thrive with low inputs and at the same time contribute to the nutrient density and resilience of organic food systems. The focus is therefore on a broader perspective on organic plant breeding: not only the plant itself, but its relationship to soil, microorganisms, nutrition and human health becomes the starting point for breeding innovation.

Dr. Walter Goldstein has been researching and breeding at the interface of biodynamic plant breeding, soil microbiome, endophytic microorganisms and nutritional quality for many years. Together with Prof. James White of Rutgers University, he has contributed to research on the rhizophagy cycle - a mechanism by which plants can interact with soil microorganisms, mobilize nutrients and enhance their vitality and nutritional quality.

The event will take place both on site at the university and online via Microsoft Teams. Participation is free of charge.