July 26 – August 7
Topic: Microbial Biodiversity in Sustainable Agriculture
Thematic
Microbial Biodiversity in Sustainable Agriculture: “From Invisible to Indispensable: Harnessing Unexplored Microbial Biodiversity for Resilient and Sustainable Agriculture”
This summer school delves into the vital roles of environmental microbes for the Earth’s biosphere and for agriculture.
Through dynamic lectures and hands-on workshops, the program proposes to examine the intricate interactions between microbes, other living organisms (humans and plants), and their physical environment (soil). Participants will gain insights into how microbial diversity underpins key ecosystem services, particularly those critical for human nutrition and food security, and will also consider the adverse impacts of modern farming practices on microbial communities. The latest technical approaches for microbiomes studies, and their functions will be covered in both lectures and practical lab sessions.
In a second part, the lectures will be focused on bioinspired innovations in biological control and biostimulation, two fields that are pivotal to advance the development of sustainable agriculture.
The last part of the summer school is designed to foster systems thinking, equipping participants with the skills to address complex environmental and agricultural challenges and develop sound innovation.
Lectures sessions will address the following points:
- Systems thinking as a tool to design acceptable socio-economical innovation
- Relationships between microbiomes and human and environmental health
- Interaction of microbes with plant-host
- Microbes for biocontrol and biostimulation
- Metagenomics
- Ecotoxicology
- Teaching & Training Language: English
- Type of Participants: Students
- Location: SupBiotech Engineering School of Biotechnology (France)
- Monday – Friday: Intensive Course and Learning Activities
- Activity Duration: 10 Days
- Number of ECTS: 4
- Cost: €1,450
Targets
Students who show interest for the microbiology sector. Profile with scientific or marketing training wishing to acquire knowledge on the biology of the the intricate interactions between microbes, other living organisms (humans and plants), and their physical environment (soil).
Objectives
You will dive into the fascinating world of microbial diversity that keeps our planet running, especially in everything related to our plate and food security. You will also explore how modern agriculture can disrupt these invisible little allies. The latest cutting-edge techniques for decoding the secrets of microbiomes will be revealed in theoretical courses and practical lab sessions.
Programme
Includes:
- 10 breakfast & lunches, 1 dinner
- 2 cultural activities
- Accommodation (double rooms) from July 26 to August 7, 2026 at the Ecla Residence (2 minutes from campus)
- Local transportation card.
The planning is subject to change.
How to apply?
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis and places are reserved on a first come, first served basis. Please fill out the form.
Early Bird Rate Application: deadline: March 31, 2026
Take advantage of the current rate! After this date, due to accommodation constraints, the price will increase to €1700.
Regular application: deadline: May 31, 2026
Optional week of French Courses
Start your Summer School with an intensive week of French classes. This week in Paris, you will dive headfirst into French culture with language classes and cultural activities. You will not only learn French, but also, the traditions and lifestyle of France. Each day is a new adventure through historical sites and local customs, offering an enriching perspective on France and enhancing your language proficiency!
