Biography

Dr. Meritxell Pérez-Hedo, researcher at Institute for Plant Molecular and Cellular Biology, IBMCP-CSIC (Ramon y Cajal Fellow), Valencia, Spain.

Ph.D. in Agricultural Engineering from University of Lleida (UdL).

My research is focused on finding sustainable solutions to improve agricultural sustainability. Currently, my research mainly focuses on 1) inducing plant defenses against pests and diseases, 2) exploring new tools to reduce plant stress, 3) discovering and developing new biopesticides, and 4) employing RNAi technology for pest control.

Throughout my career, I have specialized in managing major pests affecting economically crucial crops, including citrus, persimmon, pepper, and tomato. Additionally, I have pioneered a novel approach based on plant communication for more sustainable pest and disease management strategies. My overall goal is to unravel the mechanisms of plant defense through volatile communication and decode their impact on pests, pathogens, and natural enemies.