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The Hellenic Mediterranean University (HMU), through its Department of Public and International Relations, continues to coordinate the international scientific lecture series ATHENA Talks 2026–2027 of the ATHENA European University.
On Friday, October 30, 2026, two researchers from Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń, Poland, will present their research findings on the effects of salinity on plants and the role of microorganisms in plant adaptation to environmental change.
The two lectures are part of the Sustainable Production thematic area of the ATHENA European University.
Lecture Programme
1st Lecture | 11:00–11:20 (Greek time)
Speaker: Jagoda Szydło
Title: Genomic Insights into Plant Growth-Promoting Bacterial Endophytes and Their Role in Poaceae under Salinity Stress
The presentation will focus on the role of beneficial bacterial endophytes in the growth and resilience of plants belonging to the Poaceae family (grasses) under conditions of increased salinity. Through genomic analysis, the contribution of microorganisms to enhancing plant tolerance will be explored, along with their potential applications in sustainable agriculture.
2nd Lecture | 11:30–11:50 (Greek time)
Speaker: Debosmita Chakraborty
Title: Salinity and Climate Shape Bacterial Diversity and Composition in the Halophyte Salicornia europaea across Europe
The lecture will examine how salinity and climatic conditions influence the diversity and composition of bacterial communities associated with the halophyte Salicornia europaea across different regions of Europe. The findings provide important insights into the adaptation of plant ecosystems to environmental pressures.
Why These Lectures Matter
Increasing salinity in soils and water resources, combined with climate change, poses a significant challenge to agricultural production, particularly in Mediterranean regions.
The two presentations highlight the importance of studying plant–microorganism interactions for the development of innovative approaches to sustainable agriculture, biodiversity protection and climate change adaptation.
Participation Information
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Date: Friday, October 30, 2026
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Time: 11:00–11:50 (Greek time) / 10:00–10:50 CET
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Format: Online via Zoom
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Language: English
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Participation: Free of charge; registration is required
To receive the link to attend, please register here:
https://forms.gle/vHY9xjK8yz8NTTpX6
Watch Previous Lectures
Those who did not have the opportunity to attend the first lecture of this year’s ATHENA Talks series can watch the recording at the following link:
https://youtu.be/ljMrSdT6qJk?si=irlLL92FsgQmCyCX
About ATHENA Talks
ATHENA Talks is an international science communication initiative of the ATHENA European University, coordinated by the Hellenic Mediterranean University. Its aim is to disseminate scientific knowledge, strengthen interdisciplinary collaboration and create opportunities for interaction among researchers, academics and students from different countries.
Participation is open to all members of the academic and research community, as well as to anyone interested in the topics of the lectures.