Iğdır University Signs Up for EU Project with a Budget of 17 Million TL
The project, prepared under the leadership of our department's faculty member Prof. Dr. Songül Gürel and with a budget of approximately 17 million TL, has been awarded funding by the European Union (EU).
The project aims to scientifically investigate the genetic, physiological and nutritional characteristics of wild and edible halophyte plant populations, including wild beet.
The ‘HALO-FORCE’ project, supported under the PRIMA Programme, covers studies to be carried out in wetlands in the Mediterranean basin.
Within the scope of the project, halophyte species, including wild beet, will be analysed in detail in terms of nutrient density, physiological characteristics and biologically active components, taking into account their relationship with soil nutrient content and salinity conditions.
The University of Padova in Italy is the general coordinator of the project, which will last a total of 48 months.
In Turkey, the partnership consists of Iğdır University, Kastamonu University, Bolu Abant İzzet Baysal University and Türkiye Şeker Fabrikaları A.Ş.
Prof. Dr. Songül Gürel is leading the partnership in question.
Critical Role for Iğdır University in the Project
Our university will play an active role in the scientific application and field studies to be conducted on halophyte plant materials within the scope of the project.
Our university will conduct ecological mapping, phenotyping, metabolomic analyses and field validation studies in the Alçatı Wetland.
The project aims to strengthen Iğdır University's international academic collaborations, increase the production of high-quality scientific publications, and expand research and application-based educational opportunities for students and young researchers.
Highlighting the importance of the project, our Rector Prof. Dr. Ekrem Gürel stated that the approaches to be developed and the scientific outputs to be obtained within the scope of the HALO-FORCE project will enable the creation of a comprehensive application framework that can be used in collaboration with public institutions and implementing stakeholders in the fields of agriculture, environment, and ecosystem management.
Rector Gürel also stated that Iğdır University would steadfastly continue its support for scientific research, sustainability, and international cooperation.
