Center for Excellence in Biological Control

Abstract

The mission of the Center for Excellence in Biological Control (Fapesp-Koppert) is to develop research projects, products and technologies that result in the use and strengthening of biological pest control for sustainable agriculture in Brazil. This proposal envisages the creation of an international-level research center, focusing on the development of innovations and the dissemination of knowledge of biological pest control. The Center will rely on a team of highly qualified researchers who will conduct inter- and multidisciplinary activities involving projects in five lines of research: (I) Prospecting for new biocontrol agents; (II) Processes for production and automation of beneficial macro- and microorganisms; (III) New formulations of microorganisms (fungi, bacteria and secondary metabolites); (IV) Evaluation of the risks and benefits of Biological Control; and (V) Strategies for using Biological Control in IPM. The headquarters Institution of the Center will be at USP-ESALQ, which has a tradition of solving problems in the area of Biological Control and alternative control methods for agricultural pests, replacing conventional chemicals. The organization of the Center envisages the participation of a Director and Vice-Director, an Executive Committee and Managers for Education and for Technology Transfer, in addition to an International Advisory Board (IAB), which, together with the Koppert Company, a world leader in biological control, will follow the route to achieve the proposed objectives. (AU)