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Program research areas

Animal Genetics and Evolution: Professors lead research on Genetics and Molecular biology using animal models, population genetics and evolution. For instance, some groups work on projects on neuroscience, systems biology, stem cells biology, population genetics and evolution biology. [Professors from this area]

Genetics of Microorganisms: Among the main experimental models used in genetics, those involving microorganisms stand out. Some of them are even relevant economically, as they deal with plant pests, with an essential element on fermentation (alcohol production), and in antibiotic production. [Professors from this area]

Plant Genetics and Breeding: Among the main research in this area, we can highlight genetic engineering and plant biotechnology. Genome elucidation of several plants such as sugarcane, can help identify thousands of genes in a particular organism that have roles in pest resistance and adaptation to different environments[Professors from this area]

Microbiology: Several microorganisms and viruses cause diseases in humans and other living organisms of economic importance. The professors in this area conduct research addressing virulence mechanisms. This information is critical for developing disease prevention strategies which include production of vaccines, drugs and diagnostic kits. [Professors from this area]

Immunology: The immune system’s main function is to maintain the homeostasis of different tissues by participating in tissue repair and neuroendocrine regulation. The immune system is also responsible for reacting to infectious agents. Specific cells and humoral factors act in a complex and intertwined fashion to keep the systemic homeostasis and protect organisms from infectious diseases and tumor development. The components of the immune system are tightly regulated. This regulation, once lost by either inactivation or exacerbated or inadequate activation, can result in important pathologies including immunodeficiency and inflammatory, metabolic and autoimmune diseases. In this context, researchers in this program investigate the regulation of immune systems both in physiologic and pathologic conditions. The influence of environmental factors including diet and microbiota on the effectiveness of this system is also a research target. [Professors from this area]

Bioinformatics: Bioinformatics is a multidisciplinary area that combines both Biological and Computing Sciences including research in the areas of genetics, evolution, computing and statistics with a focus on molecular data analyses and modeling of biological networks. [Professors from this area]