{"id":65,"date":"2022-02-21T11:05:06","date_gmt":"2022-02-21T11:05:06","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/?page_id=65"},"modified":"2026-03-30T20:09:14","modified_gmt":"2026-03-30T20:09:14","slug":"projects","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/projects\/","title":{"rendered":"Projects"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"vf-grid | vf-grid__col-3\"><div class=\"vf-grid__col--span-2\"><!--[vf\/content]-->\n<div class=\"vf-content\">\n\n<p>The TREC expedition aims to deepen our understanding of coastal ecosystems and how they respond to environmental change at the molecular level. By uncovering the mechanisms that drive ecosystem function and resilience, TREC is generating new knowledge \u2013 and potential solutions \u2013 for addressing the harmful environmental impacts of human activity on coastal ecosystems.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Research goals:<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Identification of key factors (natural and man-made) driving coastal community composition<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Understanding molecular mechanisms of phenotypic plasticity and adaptation at species and community levels<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Tracking gene flux between soil and ocean species via horizontal gene transfer or species assimilation, both regionally and globally<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Elucidating mechanisms of co-adaptation across species and communities<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A better definition of coastal ecosystems biodiversity, causes of biodiversity loss, and its impact<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Unravelling new molecular mechanisms from coastal species and symbionts<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>TREC projects are highly collaborative, bringing together EMBL researchers and those from partner institutions. See above the expanding TREC projects portfolio with&nbsp;<strong>sub-projects<\/strong>&nbsp;submitted by the growing network of collaborators.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:40px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div><!--[vf\/content]-->\n<div class=\"vf-content\">\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<article class=\"vf-card vf-card--brand vf-card--striped vf-u-margin__bottom--800\" default>\n  <div class=\"vf-card__content | vf-stack vf-stack--400\">\n      <h3 class=\"vf-card__heading\">\n      Submit a TREC sub-project    <\/h3>\n            <p class=\"vf-card__subheading\">Join in!<\/p>\n            <p class=\"vf-card__text\">If you would like to participate in the TREC project with your samples, data, or analysis, please write to us: TREC@embl.org.\r\n\r\n<a class=\"vf-card_link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/TREC-Sub-project-form_Template.docx\">Download template (Word)<\/a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;<\/p>\n      <\/div>\n<\/article>\n\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<style>\n      #wp-block-1 .vf-card-container::before {\n  background:url(https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sampling_Marathon_Greece-41-scaled.jpg);\n  background-position: 50%;\n  background-size: cover; }\n <\/style>\n\n<section id=\"wp-block-1\">\n  <div class=\"vf-card-container  | vf-u-fullbleed  \n\">\n          <div class=\"vf-section-header | vf-u-margin__bottom--600 | vf-u-sr-only\">\n        <h2 class=\"vf-section-header__heading\" >\n        Ho do I find my project    <\/h2>\n              <\/div>\n      \n\n<div class=\"vf-grid | vf-grid__col-3\"><div><!--[vf\/content]-->\n<div class=\"vf-content\">\n\n<article class=\"vf-card vf-card--brand vf-card--bordered vf-u-margin__bottom--800\" default>\n  <div class=\"vf-card__content | vf-stack vf-stack--400\">\n      <h3 class=\"vf-card__heading\">\n      How do I find my project?    <\/h3>\n                <p class=\"vf-card__text\">Since the project list is long, we recommend using your browser\u2019s search feature. Press <strong data-start=\"487\" data-end=\"499\">Ctrl + F<\/strong> (or <strong data-start=\"504\" data-end=\"515\">Cmd + F<\/strong> on Mac) and type in a keyword to quickly find projects of interest.<\/p>\n      <\/div>\n<\/article>\n\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div><!--[vf\/content]-->\n<div class=\"vf-content\">\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div><!--[vf\/content]-->\n<div class=\"vf-content\">\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n        <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n\n<div class=\"vf-grid | vf-grid__col-3\"><div class=\"vf-grid__col--span-2\"><!--[vf\/content]-->\n<div class=\"vf-content\">\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Explore the TREC projects per topic<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:15px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"planetary-microbial-systems-biology\">Planetary Microbial Systems Biology<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<details  class=\"vf-details\" id=\"\"  >\n<summary class=\"vf-details--summary\">\nMicrobial community interactions between land and water<\/summary>\n<div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<figure class=\"vf-figure wp-block-image  | vf-figure--align vf-figure--align-inline-start   size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"448\" class=\"vf-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/land-sea-interface-microbes-1024x448.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-438\" style=\"width:400px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/land-sea-interface-microbes-1024x448.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/land-sea-interface-microbes-300x131.png 300w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/land-sea-interface-microbes-768x336.png 768w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/land-sea-interface-microbes.png 1128w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>This project aims to assess how microbial biodiversity is impacted by sea, freshwater and estuaries, pollution, and other environmental factors. In the Bork lab at EMBL, for example, one of the focuses is on the gene flux between land and water. More specifically, soil is a major reservoir of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and this project will study local AMR profiles and mechanisms of AMR spreading from soils to waters and humans.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<details  class=\"vf-details\" id=\"\"  >\n<summary class=\"vf-details--summary\">\nBioaerosols across the land-ocean interface<\/summary>\n<div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<figure class=\"vf-figure wp-block-image  | vf-figure--align vf-figure--align-inline-start   size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"622\" class=\"vf-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/IllustrationBioAerosols-1024x622.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-6462\" style=\"width:400px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/IllustrationBioAerosols-1024x622.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/IllustrationBioAerosols-300x182.png 300w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/IllustrationBioAerosols-768x467.png 768w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/IllustrationBioAerosols.png 1280w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Bioaerosols remain one of the least studied microbiomes on Earth. Airborne microbes impact the health of humans, plants and animals, and drive key climatological processes. The TREC project enables the Sunagawa lab at ETH Zurich to team up with the Ocean-atmosphere interactions group, led by Michel Flores at the Weizmann Institute of Science, and explore the diversity, function and dispersal of airborne microbial communities at the land-ocean interface. (BIOcean5D)<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<details  class=\"vf-details\" id=\"\"  >\n<summary class=\"vf-details--summary\">\nDiscovering new culturable relatives of animals<\/summary>\n<div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<figure class=\"vf-figure wp-block-image  | vf-figure--align vf-figure--align-inline-start   size-large is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"vf-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/flagella-Thibaut-Brunet_2-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"\" style=\"width:400px\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The Brunet lab at the Institut Pasteur (Paris) studies choanoflagellates, the closest living relatives of animals. Many choanoflagellates can switch between unicellular and multicellular forms and thus offer a proxy to the origin of animal development. However, only a fraction of existing species are known. We will try to systematically describe and isolate new culturable choanos from plankton to understand the natural environment for the emergence of multicellularity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:114px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<details  class=\"vf-details\" id=\"\"  >\n<summary class=\"vf-details--summary\">\nCharacterising microbial behaviours at the continental scale<\/summary>\n<div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<figure class=\"vf-figure wp-block-image  | vf-figure--align vf-figure--align-inline-start   size-large is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"vf-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/Pic-3_1-300x162.jpg\" alt=\"\" style=\"width:400px\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Microbial behavior will be quantified during TREC through the deployment of a novel sea-going microfluidic platform, the In Situ Chemotaxis Assay (ISCA). This international collaboration (Stocker: ETH Zurich, Raina + Seymour: University of Technology Sydney, Vincent: EMBL) will leverage the contextual data gathered during the expedition to identify environmental drivers influencing microbial behaviors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<details  class=\"vf-details\" id=\"\"  >\n<summary class=\"vf-details--summary\">\nMorphological and genomic diversity of coastal giant viruses<\/summary>\n<div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<figure class=\"vf-figure wp-block-image  | vf-figure--align vf-figure--align-inline-start   size-large is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"vf-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/TREC_Fischer_giant-virus-300x169.jpg\" alt=\"\" style=\"width:400px\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Giant viruses influence the mortality, population structure and gene flux of various protists. The Fischer lab at the MPI for Medical Research studies the diversity and biogeography of giant viruses by electron microscopy, metagenomics, and cultivation on heterotrophic flagellates. We aim to compare coastal virus communities from water and soil and to isolate new giant viruses for a better understanding of their ecology.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<details  class=\"vf-details\" id=\"\"  >\n<summary class=\"vf-details--summary\">\nMarine communities along human pressure gradients<\/summary>\n<div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<figure class=\"vf-figure wp-block-image  | vf-figure--align vf-figure--align-inline-start   size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"734\" height=\"624\" class=\"vf-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/eDNA_Illustration.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-16348\" style=\"width:400px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/eDNA_Illustration.png 734w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/eDNA_Illustration-300x255.png 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 734px) 100vw, 734px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>As part of the TREC expedition, Dr Arnaud-Haond (Ifremer) coordinates a team of researchers (AZTI, Ifremer, CNRS) to characterize marine communities across the entire Tree of Life (i.e. prokaryotes, protists, metazoans\u2026), using metabarcoding protocols based on environmental DNA. Sampling performed along shallow-coastal gradients, under diverse levels of human pressure, will allow mapping the biogeography depending on life history traits and assess the impact of human activities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<details  class=\"vf-details\" id=\"\"  >\n<summary class=\"vf-details--summary\">\nDiversity and ecology of Viruses and extracellular Vesicles<\/summary>\n<div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<figure class=\"vf-figure wp-block-image  | vf-figure--align vf-figure--align-inline-start   size-large is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"vf-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/Virus-Vesicles-TREC-plugin_Chaffron-300x271.png\" alt=\"\" style=\"width:400px\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Viruses and Vesicles (VV) significantly shape plankton communities and marine biogeochemical cycles. Host-virus-vesicles interactions are poorly characterized although mediating key processes such as transfer of nucleic acids, antibiotic resistance, and cross-kingdom cell-cell communications. The Plankton Vesiclomics project (Chaffron, Baudoux et al., CNRS) will characterize the diversity and ecology of host-virus-vesicles interactions in coastal ecosystems by combining imaging, viral particles\/vesicles quantification, sequencing, and computational analyses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<details  class=\"vf-details\" id=\"\"  >\n<summary class=\"vf-details--summary\">\nDiversity and biogeochemical impacts of viruses<\/summary>\n<div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<figure class=\"vf-figure wp-block-image  | vf-figure--align vf-figure--align-inline-start   size-large is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"vf-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/Sullivan_project-picture_resized-300x169.jpg\" alt=\"\" style=\"width:400px\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The Sullivan Lab at the Ohio State University will examine, through virus-enriched metagenomics and linked microbiome datasets, the diversity and impact of viruses that infect soil and aquatic microbes. Virus abundance best predicts carbon fluxes in global oceans and impacts the evolutionary trajectories of their hosts. However, we lack data on such dynamics in coastal systems, which could be key in devising efficient climatic and ecological models for these areas.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<details  class=\"vf-details\" id=\"\"  >\n<summary class=\"vf-details--summary\">\nCoastal Microbiome Under River Run-Off Influence<\/summary>\n<div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<figure class=\"vf-figure wp-block-image  | vf-figure--align vf-figure--align-inline-start   size-large is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"vf-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/River-ROME-project_TREC-300x225.png\" alt=\"\" style=\"width:400px\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Ifremer will analyse microbiome and environmental data from the shallow waters of the river outlet stations during the TREC expedition to identify biodiversity patterns of estuarine microbiomes and the factors structuring this diversity. Spatial data will be integrated to the&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/rome.ifremer.fr\/\">ROME<\/a>&nbsp;eDNA national observatory network to validate at temporal scale the potential differences found between estuaries of different basins \u2013 English Channel, Med. Sea, Atlantic Sea. (BIOcean5D).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><br><br><\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<details  class=\"vf-details\" id=\"\"  >\n<summary class=\"vf-details--summary\">\nRhythms@Sea: daily cycles in marine life<\/summary>\n<div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<figure class=\"vf-figure wp-block-image  | vf-figure--align vf-figure--align-inline-start   size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" class=\"vf-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/TREC-plugin-Ina-Arnone-1024x576.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-37567\" style=\"width:400px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/TREC-plugin-Ina-Arnone-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/TREC-plugin-Ina-Arnone-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/TREC-plugin-Ina-Arnone-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/TREC-plugin-Ina-Arnone.jpg 1265w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>This project, lead by SZN (ITA) in collaboration with EMBL (GER) and other groups (in AUT, FRA and GER), aims at providing a multiscale analysis of plankton and benthos dynamics during the light-dark cycle in a coastal area of the Gulf of Naples. Meta-barcoding, meta-transcriptomes, morphological analysis and physiological measurements will be combined to describe diel rhythms at sea at the ecosystem level.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<details  class=\"vf-details\" id=\"\"  >\n<summary class=\"vf-details--summary\">\nMicroplankton quantification and characterisation across europeans seas using Flowcam<\/summary>\n<div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<figure class=\"vf-figure wp-block-image  | vf-figure--align vf-figure--align-inline-start   size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"512\" height=\"227\" class=\"vf-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Flowcam_Lombard.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-72905\" style=\"width:400px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Flowcam_Lombard.png 512w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Flowcam_Lombard-300x133.png 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 512px) 100vw, 512px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The Complex Team (LOV, Sorbonne University, Villefranche sur Mer- France) will analyze using the Flowcam the samples collected by 20\u00b5m nets. Results will allow us to quantify and qualify the microplankton across European seas and provide insight into the plankton ecology and trophic ecology in the various environments sampled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<details  class=\"vf-details\" id=\"\"  >\n<summary class=\"vf-details--summary\">\nMesoplankton quantification and characterisation across europeans seas using Zooscan<\/summary>\n<div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<figure class=\"vf-figure wp-block-image  | vf-figure--align vf-figure--align-inline-start   size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"512\" height=\"264\" class=\"vf-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Mesoplankton-Zooscan_Lombard.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-72917\" style=\"width:400px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Mesoplankton-Zooscan_Lombard.png 512w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Mesoplankton-Zooscan_Lombard-300x155.png 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 512px) 100vw, 512px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The Complex Team (LOV, Sorbonne University, Villefranche sur Mer- France) will analyze using the Zooscan the samples collected by 200\u00b5m nets (WP-2 nets). Results will allow us to quantify and qualify the mesoplankton across European seas and provide insight into the plankton ecology and trophic ecology in the various environments sampled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<details  class=\"vf-details\" id=\"\"  >\n<summary class=\"vf-details--summary\">\nMacroplankton quantification and characterisation across europeans seas using Zooscan<\/summary>\n<div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<figure class=\"vf-figure wp-block-image  | vf-figure--align vf-figure--align-inline-start   size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"512\" height=\"291\" class=\"vf-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Zooscan_Lombard.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-72911\" style=\"width:400px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Zooscan_Lombard.png 512w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Zooscan_Lombard-300x171.png 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 512px) 100vw, 512px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The Complex Team (LOV, Sorbonne University, Villefranche sur Mer- France) will analyze using the Zooscan the samples collected by 680\u00b5m nets (Regent). Results will allow us to quantify and qualify the macroplankton across European seas and provide insight into the plankton ecology and trophic ecology in the various environments sampled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<details  class=\"vf-details\" id=\"\"  >\n<summary class=\"vf-details--summary\">\nCoastal Archaea<\/summary>\n<div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<figure class=\"vf-figure wp-block-image  | vf-figure--align vf-figure--align-inline-start   size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" class=\"vf-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/20230626_145542-l-1024x577.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-73421\" style=\"width:400px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/20230626_145542-l-1024x577.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/20230626_145542-l-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/20230626_145542-l-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/20230626_145542-l-1536x865.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/20230626_145542-l.jpg 2000w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Archaea represent the third domain of life; however, it is considerably understudied. Originally believed to only exist in extreme environments, they have since been shown to be ubiquitous in the environment. By using metagenomic techniques the Bork group at EMBL can explore the extent of archaeal diversity and their roles in the environment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<details  class=\"vf-details\" id=\"\"  >\n<summary class=\"vf-details--summary\">\nThe airborne plastisphere<\/summary>\n<div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<figure class=\"vf-figure wp-block-image  | vf-figure--align vf-figure--align-inline-start   size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"512\" height=\"341\" class=\"vf-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/The-airborne-plastisphere.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-72921\" style=\"width:400px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/The-airborne-plastisphere.png 512w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/The-airborne-plastisphere-300x200.png 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 512px) 100vw, 512px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The Flores lab at the Weizmann Institute of Science will explore the airborne plastisphere\u2014microbes hitchhiking on microplastics in the air\u2014along 14,000 km of European coastline. By characterizing both the plastics and their microbial communities, we aim to understand their diversity, transport potential, and implications for ecosystem and human health.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:70px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<details  class=\"vf-details\" id=\"\"  >\n<summary class=\"vf-details--summary\">\nConnectivity of microalgae: dispersal and geographic profile<\/summary>\n<div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<figure class=\"vf-figure wp-block-image  | vf-figure--align vf-figure--align-inline-start   size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" class=\"vf-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Sildever-Connectivity-1024x576.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-72923\" style=\"width:400px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Sildever-Connectivity-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Sildever-Connectivity-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Sildever-Connectivity-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Sildever-Connectivity.jpg 1220w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Genetic variability within species forms a basis for responding to environmental selection and provides information on the connectivity among geographically separated populations. The Phytoplankton group at TalTech, led by Prof. Sildever, will investigate the population genomic structure of cosmopolitan harmful algal bloom species using SNPs to understand their capability to spread in European coastal waters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<details  class=\"vf-details\" id=\"\"  >\n<summary class=\"vf-details--summary\">\nEuropean Coastline Mobilome<\/summary>\n<div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<figure class=\"vf-figure wp-block-image  | vf-figure--align vf-figure--align-inline-start   size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"512\" height=\"288\" class=\"vf-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Mobilome_Bork.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-72929\" style=\"width:400px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Mobilome_Bork.jpg 512w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Mobilome_Bork-300x169.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 512px) 100vw, 512px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Mobilome is an overarching term describing mobile genetic elements of different nature (phages, plasmids, integrons, transposons) residing in the microbiome. The Bork group at EMBL developed a computational pipeline to discover microbial genes that have potential to be mobilized and horizontally transferred in microbial communities. In a changing world marked by rising temperatures, pollution, and human impact on land and sea, the composition and function of mobilised genes play a critical role in enabling adaptive responses. TREC expedition gathered crucial data that enables unprecedented resolution in identification of environmental drivers of gene mobility that can help to identify key factors contributing or restricting spread of microbial adaptation traits e.g. resistance to antibiotics or pollutants degradation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<details  class=\"vf-details\" id=\"\"  >\n<summary class=\"vf-details--summary\">\nTracing eukaryotic cell lysis with extracellular rRNA<\/summary>\n<div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<figure class=\"vf-figure wp-block-image  | vf-figure--align vf-figure--align-inline-start   size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"512\" height=\"288\" class=\"vf-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Tracing-eukaryotic-cell-lysis-with-extracellular-rRNA.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-72937\" style=\"width:400px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Tracing-eukaryotic-cell-lysis-with-extracellular-rRNA.jpg 512w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Tracing-eukaryotic-cell-lysis-with-extracellular-rRNA-300x169.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 512px) 100vw, 512px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Measuring the taxon-specific lytic mortality is a crucial challenge to understanding the biogeochemical cycles. The Ogata lab at Kyoto University will investigate the extracellular rRNA of microeukaryotes to address their cell lysis in the environments. We aim to reveal the organisms that are actively lysed and their relationship with environmental conditions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<details  class=\"vf-details\" id=\"\"  >\n<summary class=\"vf-details--summary\">\nVIROBS: Towards a viral observatory in the Western English Channel<\/summary>\n<div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<figure class=\"vf-figure wp-block-image  | vf-figure--align vf-figure--align-inline-start   size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"511\" height=\"377\" class=\"vf-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/VIROBS-e1751320189628.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-72939\" style=\"width:400px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/VIROBS-e1751320189628.png 511w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/VIROBS-e1751320189628-300x221.png 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 511px) 100vw, 511px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>VIROBS investigates the temporal dynamics of marine viruses in the Western English Channel. Combining molecular and biogeochemical approaches, the lab of Dr Baudoux (CNRS) aims to monitor viral abundance, diversity, and activity to better understand virus-host interactions and their impact on carbon and nutrient cycling under environmental pressures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:69px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<details  class=\"vf-details\" id=\"\"  >\n<summary class=\"vf-details--summary\">\nEffects of Xenobiotic Pollutants On Coastal microbial Ecosystem Resiliency (EXPOCER)<\/summary>\n<div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<figure class=\"vf-figure wp-block-image  | vf-figure--align vf-figure--align-inline-start   size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"576\" class=\"vf-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/EXPOCER.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-72945\" style=\"width:400px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/EXPOCER.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/EXPOCER-300x225.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The project led by the Bork and Zimmermann groups, unites the molecular biology expertise of EMBL with the high-tech mesocosm facilities and knowledge of Ecotron Ile de France to tackle questions on the microbial changes and adaptation in global warming and human-induced pollution. The derived results will generate new knowledge about how coastal ecosystems respond to anthropogenic pressures such as climate change and xenobiotic pollution.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<details  class=\"vf-details\" id=\"\"  >\n<summary class=\"vf-details--summary\">\nExcitability and complex behaviour in protists<\/summary>\n<div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<figure class=\"vf-figure wp-block-image  | vf-figure--align vf-figure--align-inline-start   size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" class=\"vf-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Excitability-and-complex-behaviour-in-protists-1024x576.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-74701\" style=\"width:400px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Excitability-and-complex-behaviour-in-protists-1024x576.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Excitability-and-complex-behaviour-in-protists-300x169.png 300w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Excitability-and-complex-behaviour-in-protists-768x432.png 768w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Excitability-and-complex-behaviour-in-protists.png 1280w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Protists have surprisingly cognitive behaviours, such as mating, feeding, and prey capture. The Wan lab at the Living Systems Institute (University of Exeter) will chart the motility of diverse marine protists and their responses to sensory stimuli. The aim is to correlate motor outputs and excitable behaviours with cellular structure, to discover how functional complexity may be embodied within the physical architecture of these organisms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:40px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"microbial-organismal-interactions\">Microbial &amp; Organismal Interactions<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<details  class=\"vf-details\" id=\"\"  >\n<summary class=\"vf-details--summary\">\nExploration of aquatic photosymbioses at subcellular scale<\/summary>\n<div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<figure class=\"vf-figure wp-block-image  | vf-figure--align vf-figure--align-inline-start   size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"371\" class=\"vf-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Atlasymbi_Johan-Decelle-1024x371.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-89147\" style=\"width:400px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Atlasymbi_Johan-Decelle-1024x371.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Atlasymbi_Johan-Decelle-300x109.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Atlasymbi_Johan-Decelle-768x278.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Atlasymbi_Johan-Decelle-1536x557.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Atlasymbi_Johan-Decelle.jpg 1600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The AtlaSymbio project aims to improve our understanding of aquatic photosymbioses by unveiling the three-dimensional ultrastructure of host-microalgae interactions using 3D subcellular imaging. We will generate an open-source atlas capturing the architecture and metabolic implications of different photosymbioses collected during the TREC expedition or with experts. The ambition is to foster collaborative exploration and advance the mechanistic understanding of aquatic photosymbioses.<br>AtlaSymbio is funded by the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation. The project involves an interdisciplinary consortium of experts in microalgae, symbiosis and electron microscopy, from Grenoble (Decelle\u2019s group, Cell and Plant Physiology Lab-Photosymbiosis team), EMBL Heidelberg (Schwab\u2019s group), and Roscoff (Ian Probert, Marine Station, Roscoff culture collection).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<details  class=\"vf-details\" id=\"\"  >\n<summary class=\"vf-details--summary\">\nRevealing planktonic ultrastructural diversity with Expansion Microscopy (ExM)<\/summary>\n<div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<figure class=\"vf-figure wp-block-image  | vf-figure--align vf-figure--align-inline-start   size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"684\" class=\"vf-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Gautam-project_Expansion-Microscopy-1024x684.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-4388\" style=\"width:400px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Gautam-project_Expansion-Microscopy-1024x684.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Gautam-project_Expansion-Microscopy-300x200.png 300w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Gautam-project_Expansion-Microscopy-768x513.png 768w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Gautam-project_Expansion-Microscopy-1536x1026.png 1536w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Gautam-project_Expansion-Microscopy-2048x1369.png 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>An international EMBL-EPFL-UNIGE team (Dey, Schwab, Saka, Dudin, Hamel, Guichard) are coupling expansion microscopy (Cryo-ExM and U-ExM) to FISH for species ID and sub-cellular imaging. We aim to create an atlas of native eukaryotic cellular biodiversity with unprecedented 3D spatial resolution, with a long-term view to assess the repercussions of climate change on free-living microplankton populations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<details  class=\"vf-details\" id=\"\"  >\n<summary class=\"vf-details--summary\">\ncryOcean: Molecular architecture of algal photosynthesis<\/summary>\n<div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<figure class=\"vf-figure wp-block-image  | vf-figure--align vf-figure--align-inline-start   size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" class=\"vf-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/TREC_cryOcean_webcard-1024x576.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-8702\" style=\"width:400px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/TREC_cryOcean_webcard-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/TREC_cryOcean_webcard-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/TREC_cryOcean_webcard-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/TREC_cryOcean_webcard-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/TREC_cryOcean_webcard-2048x1152.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The Engel group at the University of Basel uses cryo-electron tomography (cryo-ET) to visualize structures inside native cells with molecular resolution. In the cryOcean project, we aim to chart the molecular organization of photosynthetic organelles (light-harvesting thylakoid membranes and carbon-fixing pyrenoids) in diverse marine algae species sampled directly from the ocean.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<details  class=\"vf-details\" id=\"\"  >\n<summary class=\"vf-details--summary\">\nA cell-cell atlas of diatom symbioses across Europe<\/summary>\n<div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<figure class=\"vf-figure wp-block-image  | vf-figure--align vf-figure--align-inline-start   size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"657\" height=\"513\" class=\"vf-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/TREC-web-_Flora-symbionts.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-9782\" style=\"width:400px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/TREC-web-_Flora-symbionts.jpg 657w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/TREC-web-_Flora-symbionts-300x234.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 657px) 100vw, 657px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>This project is dedicated to understanding the diversity, distribution and impact of intimate interactions involving diatoms, major primary producers in the ocean. By using a combination of single-cell live and subcellular imaging, high-throughput phenotyping approaches, and in situ chemotactic assays, the Vincent lab at EMBL asks how microbial interactions can affect diatom behaviour, development and survival in a changing ocean.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<details  class=\"vf-details\" id=\"\"  >\n<summary class=\"vf-details--summary\">\nNAVARRO \u2013 Enabling environmental structural cell biology<\/summary>\n<div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<figure class=\"vf-figure wp-block-image  | vf-figure--align vf-figure--align-inline-start   size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"172\" height=\"116\" class=\"vf-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Navarro_draft.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-72745\" style=\"width:400px\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>NAVARRO aims to capture dynamic cellular processes in diverse marine environments \u2013 bridging structural biology with environmental studies. With advanced cryo-EM sample preparation instruments now available directly at the marine sampling sites,&nbsp;The Schwab Lab at EMBLwe have begun investigating molecular machines&nbsp;<em>in situ<\/em>, within their natural context.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<details  class=\"vf-details\" id=\"\"  >\n<summary class=\"vf-details--summary\">\nSTARDUST \u2013 Ultrastructural biodiversity of dinoflagellates<\/summary>\n<div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<figure class=\"vf-figure wp-block-image  | vf-figure--align vf-figure--align-inline-start   size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"512\" height=\"485\" class=\"vf-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Stardust.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-72727\" style=\"width:400px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Stardust.png 512w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Stardust-300x284.png 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 512px) 100vw, 512px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The Schwab Lab at EMBL employs high-resolution correlative electron microscopy to reveal the complex cellular architecture of marine dinoflagellates from natural environments. We are&nbsp;constructing a geo-centric ultrastructural atlas of dinoflagellates using high-resolution 2D EM, high-throughput X-ray tomography, and volume EM methods.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:181px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<details  class=\"vf-details\" id=\"\"  >\n<summary class=\"vf-details--summary\">\nEndosymbiosis and plastid-stealing microorganisms<\/summary>\n<div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<figure class=\"vf-figure wp-block-image  | vf-figure--align vf-figure--align-inline-start   size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"558\" class=\"vf-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Endosymbiosis-plastid-stealing-microorganisms_redMGD-1024x558.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-72721\" style=\"width:400px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Endosymbiosis-plastid-stealing-microorganisms_redMGD-1024x558.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Endosymbiosis-plastid-stealing-microorganisms_redMGD-300x164.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Endosymbiosis-plastid-stealing-microorganisms_redMGD-768x419.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Endosymbiosis-plastid-stealing-microorganisms_redMGD.jpg 1506w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The Hehenberger Group (Biology Centre, CZ) investigates the processes during plastid endosymbiosis using microorganisms that steal and transiently retain plastids from their prey. We aim to analyze the physiological and genetic integration of the plastids in such lineages by combining cultivation-dependent and -independent approaches with the support of the AML. The project is part of the ERC CoG-funded project KLEPTOS.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<details  class=\"vf-details\" id=\"\"  >\n<summary class=\"vf-details--summary\">\nEcological importance of chain formation in diatoms<\/summary>\n<div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<figure class=\"vf-figure wp-block-image  | vf-figure--align vf-figure--align-inline-start   size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"512\" height=\"284\" class=\"vf-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/chain-formation-in-diatoms.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-72733\" style=\"width:400px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/chain-formation-in-diatoms.png 512w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/chain-formation-in-diatoms-300x166.png 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 512px) 100vw, 512px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Diatoms from genus Chaetoceros are known to form chains that can go up to 50 cells. Because of technical limitations, our knowledge of why those chains are formed is limited. Thanks to&nbsp;<em>in situ<\/em>&nbsp;single-cell sampling made during the TREC expedition and single-cell RNA sequencing, this project in&nbsp;the Vincent lab at EMBL,&nbsp;aims to explore the impact of environmental conditions on chain formation and length, and decipher the ecological importance of chains.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<details  class=\"vf-details\" id=\"\"  >\n<summary class=\"vf-details--summary\">\nThe social life of the microalga Phaeocystis: unveiling the microbiome across life stages and geography<\/summary>\n<div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<figure class=\"vf-figure wp-block-image  | vf-figure--align vf-figure--align-inline-start   size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"512\" height=\"256\" class=\"vf-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Phaeocystis.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-72735\" style=\"width:400px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Phaeocystis.jpg 512w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Phaeocystis-300x150.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 512px) 100vw, 512px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The main goal of the project, led by Decelle group at CNRS\/UGA\/CEA, is to better understand the life history of the marine microalga&nbsp;<em>Phaeocystis<\/em>, which is a keystone phytoplankton taxon in the ocean. In coastal waters, blooms of colonies can have negative impacts in the ecosystems with consequences on the fisheries and touristic activities. The ability to live in symbiosis intracellularly in a host cell is also an intriguing phenomenon in&nbsp;<em>Phaeocystis<\/em>. By unveiling the diversity of the microbiome across these different life stages and along the European coast, we hope to bring new information to better understand the ecological success of this microalga. The microbiome will be assessed by different sequencing strategies thanks to the samples collected during the TREC expedition. This project forms part of the BIOcean5D EU funded project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<details  class=\"vf-details\" id=\"\"  >\n<summary class=\"vf-details--summary\">\nImage-enabled cell sorting of plankton<\/summary>\n<div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<figure class=\"vf-figure wp-block-image  | vf-figure--align vf-figure--align-inline-start   size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"482\" height=\"317\" class=\"vf-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/image-enabled-cell-sorting_plankton-e1753436582175.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-74693\" style=\"width:400px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/image-enabled-cell-sorting_plankton-e1753436582175.jpg 482w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/image-enabled-cell-sorting_plankton-e1753436582175-300x197.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 482px) 100vw, 482px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Plankton drives marine ecosystem function, but phenotyping cells in their environment remains challenging. Manual sorting of morphologically diverse samples creates discovery bottlenecks. This TREC project, uniting EMBL, Roscoff Biological Station, and Ifremer Brest, advances image-enabled cell sorting across all planktonic size fractions. By integrating computer vision, photolabelling, and high-throughput single-cell sorting\/sequencing, it aims to accelerate marine research capabilities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<details  class=\"vf-details\" id=\"\"  >\n<summary class=\"vf-details--summary\">\nInterkingdom Partnerships and the Evolution of Life Exchanges under Human Pressure<\/summary>\n<div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<figure class=\"vf-figure wp-block-image  | vf-figure--align vf-figure--align-inline-start   size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"512\" height=\"329\" class=\"vf-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/LifeBridger_Caroline-Juery-TREC-project.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-89815\" style=\"width:400px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/LifeBridger_Caroline-Juery-TREC-project.png 512w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/LifeBridger_Caroline-Juery-TREC-project-300x193.png 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 512px) 100vw, 512px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The LIFE BRIDGES project, led at the Bork lab (Juery et al.), aims to investigate the molecular basis of associations between bacterial and eukaryotic cells in different biomes and different perturbation regimes. Focusing on genes involved in nutrient exchange, membrane transport, adhesion, and cell\u2013cell communication, we analyse eukaryotic and prokaryotic annotated metagenomes from the TREC expedition to compare human-impacted and pristine environments and evaluate how anthropogenic pressures alter these interaction capacities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<details  class=\"vf-details\" id=\"\"  >\n<summary class=\"vf-details--summary\">\nHabitat expansion in benthic endosymbioses<\/summary>\n<div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<figure class=\"vf-figure wp-block-image  | vf-figure--align vf-figure--align-inline-start   size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"512\" height=\"288\" class=\"vf-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Benthic-endosymbioses.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-74921\" style=\"width:400px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Benthic-endosymbioses.png 512w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Benthic-endosymbioses-300x169.png 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 512px) 100vw, 512px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>This project will analyse the TREC dataset to investigate species diversity and geographic distribution of two unique protist endosymbioses:&nbsp;<em>Paulinella<\/em>, the genus within which an independent photosynthetic organelle evolved, and&nbsp;<em>Pseudoblepharisma,&nbsp;<\/em>the genus&nbsp;within which the only known \u2018green and purple\u2019 endosymbiosis evolved<em>.<\/em>&nbsp;The team (S\u00f8rensen, Mu\u00f1oz-G\u00f3mez, Nowack &amp; Burki) will use this data to study the effect of environmental gradients on the endosymbiotic state of these protists. Ultimately, our goal is to explore how endosymbiosis-mediated metabolic innovation can enable habitat expansion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:40px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"ecology-of-selected-meio-macro-taxa\">Ecology of Selected Meio\/Macro Taxa<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<details  class=\"vf-details\" id=\"\"  >\n<summary class=\"vf-details--summary\">\nDetermining hotspots of cellular adaptation in the marine annelid Platynereis dumerilii<\/summary>\n<div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<figure class=\"vf-figure wp-block-image  | vf-figure--align vf-figure--align-inline-start   size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"512\" height=\"288\" class=\"vf-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Platy-hotspots.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-72681\" style=\"width:400px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Platy-hotspots.png 512w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Platy-hotspots-300x169.png 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 512px) 100vw, 512px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Cosmopolitan organisms possess the ability to easily adapt to new conditions and habitats. The molecular changes orchestrating the adaptation and microevolution of particular cell types and tissues to changing conditions as in times of global warming are, however, poorly understood. The goal of the Arendt group at EMBL Heidelberg, is to identify cell types that are prone to environment-driven change for the cosmopolitan marine worm&nbsp;<em>Platynereis dumerilii<\/em>. We are currently sampling different&nbsp;<em>P. dumerilii<\/em>&nbsp;populations across European coastal sites to unveil transcriptomic differences within different cell types. We have sampled populations from Sweden, Spain, France, Italy and Greece which provide insights into abundance changes for certain cell types and site-specific gene expression patterns.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<details  class=\"vf-details\" id=\"\"  >\n<summary class=\"vf-details--summary\">\nDiversity and assemblage of meiofaunal communities in European coastal zones<\/summary>\n<div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<figure class=\"vf-figure wp-block-image  | vf-figure--align vf-figure--align-inline-start   size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"512\" height=\"346\" class=\"vf-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Ifremer-meiofauna-e1751208830328.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-72701\" style=\"width:400px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Ifremer-meiofauna-e1751208830328.png 512w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Ifremer-meiofauna-e1751208830328-300x203.png 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 512px) 100vw, 512px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Meiofauna is a vital link in benthic ecosystems. Ifremer, in the context of Meiodyssea project (<a href=\"https:\/\/meiodyssea.ifremer.fr\/\">https:\/\/meiodyssea.ifremer.fr\/<\/a>) will characterize the diversity of meiofauna present in European coastal zones using imaging methods based on flow cytometry to understand the environmental and anthropogenic factors shaping these communities, on a scale unprecedented for these organisms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<details  class=\"vf-details\" id=\"\"  >\n<summary class=\"vf-details--summary\">\nSoundscapes, environmental changes &amp; noise pollution<\/summary>\n<div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<figure class=\"vf-figure wp-block-image  | vf-figure--align vf-figure--align-inline-start   size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1345\" height=\"713\" class=\"vf-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/Bioacoustic_Lucia-diIorio.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-2814\" style=\"width:400px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/Bioacoustic_Lucia-diIorio.jpg 1345w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/Bioacoustic_Lucia-diIorio-300x159.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/Bioacoustic_Lucia-diIorio-1024x543.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/Bioacoustic_Lucia-diIorio-768x407.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1345px) 100vw, 1345px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>As part of the EU BIOcean5D project, L. Di Iorio and co-workers at UPVD will assess the biogeography of bioacoustic diversity and investigate environmental state-pressure relationships using soundscapes. Noise pollution will be quantified to study its impact on model systems. The collaboration with the CNRS &amp; EMBL involved in other TREC projects will allow to appraise functional aspects of soundscapes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<details  class=\"vf-details\" id=\"\"  >\n<summary class=\"vf-details--summary\">\nMechanisms of environmental adaptation in planarian flatworms<\/summary>\n<div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<figure class=\"vf-figure wp-block-image  | vf-figure--align vf-figure--align-inline-start   size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" class=\"vf-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/Planarians-TREC-Hanh.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-8828\" style=\"width:400px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/Planarians-TREC-Hanh.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/Planarians-TREC-Hanh-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/Planarians-TREC-Hanh-768x432.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Why can some species live in a wide range of habitats, while others cannot? The Vu group (in collaboration with many folks at EMBL and beyond) aims to answer this question by first, carrying out a systematic field sampling of planarian flatworms along the coastline of Europe; and second, applying cutting-edge single cell multiomics and targeted perturbations to wild planarians brought back to the lab.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<details  class=\"vf-details\" id=\"\"  >\n<summary class=\"vf-details--summary\">\nFunLeaf \u2013 citizen science<\/summary>\n<div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<figure class=\"vf-figure wp-block-image  | vf-figure--align vf-figure--align-inline-start   size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1440\" height=\"857\" class=\"vf-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/under_microscope2-scaled-e1751208030745.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-8838\" style=\"width:400px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/under_microscope2-scaled-e1751208030745.jpg 1440w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/under_microscope2-scaled-e1751208030745-300x179.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/under_microscope2-scaled-e1751208030745-1024x609.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/under_microscope2-scaled-e1751208030745-768x457.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1440px) 100vw, 1440px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>FunLeaf project is led by Dr. Niloufar Hagh-Doust at University of Tartu, Estonia. This citizen science project aims to describe the biodiversity of microorganisms associated with the plant leaves across the globe. Using DNA-based methods for identification, the aim is to determine the environmental features that shape the leaf microbiome and add one piece to the puzzle of global biodiversity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<details  class=\"vf-details\" id=\"\"  >\n<summary class=\"vf-details--summary\">\nMicrobial variation and individuality in a marine sponge<\/summary>\n<div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<figure class=\"vf-figure wp-block-image  | vf-figure--align vf-figure--align-inline-start   size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"798\" height=\"472\" class=\"vf-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Sponges_Ute_TREC-e1751208113803.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-9508\" style=\"width:400px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Sponges_Ute_TREC-e1751208113803.png 798w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Sponges_Ute_TREC-e1751208113803-300x177.png 300w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Sponges_Ute_TREC-e1751208113803-768x454.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 798px) 100vw, 798px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The Hentschel lab at GEOMAR will define the effects of environmental gradients on microbiome variation and individuality in the sponge H. panicea. We will explore taxonomic and functional gene variation of the dominant microbial symbiont clade and immune gene variation on the host side. Our overarching aim is to move marine sponge symbioses from an exploratory to experimental arena for host-microbe interactions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<details  class=\"vf-details\" id=\"\"  >\n<summary class=\"vf-details--summary\">\nAnimal-algae symbiosis across coastal marine gradients<\/summary>\n<div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<figure class=\"vf-figure wp-block-image  | vf-figure--align vf-figure--align-inline-start   size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"720\" height=\"405\" class=\"vf-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/TREC_plugin_Hambleton_imag.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-9506\" style=\"width:400px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/TREC_plugin_Hambleton_imag.png 720w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/TREC_plugin_Hambleton_imag-300x169.png 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 720px) 100vw, 720px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Led by the Hambleton lab (Uni Vienna), this project will use transcriptomics and lipidomics to assess the biogeography and function of dinoflagellate algae in marine sediments and in symbiosis with marine invertebrates. We aim to reveal how key symbiotic organisms are affected along evolutionary and environmental gradients, allowing predictions of how these symbioses will respond to accelerating climate change. Part of the BIOcean5D EU-funded project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<details  class=\"vf-details\" id=\"\"  >\n<summary class=\"vf-details--summary\">\nDiversity of intertidal annelids across the European Atlantic coastline<\/summary>\n<div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<figure class=\"vf-figure wp-block-image  | vf-figure--align vf-figure--align-inline-start   size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1913\" height=\"1076\" class=\"vf-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/TREC-plugin-image_Christof-Bleidorn_1.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-16900\" style=\"width:400px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/TREC-plugin-image_Christof-Bleidorn_1.png 1913w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/TREC-plugin-image_Christof-Bleidorn_1-300x169.png 300w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/TREC-plugin-image_Christof-Bleidorn_1-1024x576.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/TREC-plugin-image_Christof-Bleidorn_1-768x432.png 768w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/TREC-plugin-image_Christof-Bleidorn_1-1536x864.png 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1913px) 100vw, 1913px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The Animal Evolution and Biodiversity department at the University of G\u00f6ttingen investigates the annelid macrofauna across the European coast in TREC project. Animals are sampled across a defined transect covering the upper-, middle-, and lower-intertidal zones at sandy and rocky shores. A subset of focus taxa is analysed morpho-genetically to unravel taxonomic distribution patterns and to corollate it with the biotic and abiotic factors. (BIOcean5D)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<details  class=\"vf-details\" id=\"\"  >\n<summary class=\"vf-details--summary\">\nHolobionts and the dynamics of marine meadows<\/summary>\n<div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<figure class=\"vf-figure wp-block-image  | vf-figure--align vf-figure--align-inline-start   size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"502\" class=\"vf-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Herbier-a-zostere-Zostera-marina.jpeg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-16350\" style=\"width:400px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Herbier-a-zostere-Zostera-marina.jpeg 800w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Herbier-a-zostere-Zostera-marina-300x188.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Herbier-a-zostere-Zostera-marina-768x482.jpeg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>In the frame of the Biocean5D project, the teams of Jillian Petersen (University of Vienna) and Sophie Arnaud-Haond (Ifremer-MARBEC, Evolution and Genetics of Marine Organisms) will coordinate their expertise in microbiology and population genomics of clonal engineer species to characterize the \u2018holobionts\u2019 structuring seagrass meadows along European coasts, in order to map biotic interactions and reveal the environments conditioning this possibly fragile equilibrium.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<details  class=\"vf-details\" id=\"\"  >\n<summary class=\"vf-details--summary\">\nTracking marine alien species within and outside ports<\/summary>\n<div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<figure class=\"vf-figure wp-block-image  | vf-figure--align vf-figure--align-inline-start   size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1135\" class=\"vf-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Port_Alien_Illustration1_Port.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-16346\" style=\"width:400px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Port_Alien_Illustration1_Port.jpg 2000w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Port_Alien_Illustration1_Port-300x170.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Port_Alien_Illustration1_Port-1024x581.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Port_Alien_Illustration1_Port-768x436.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Port_Alien_Illustration1_Port-1536x872.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>As part of the Horizon Europe BIOcean5D project, Dr Viard (CNRS) will lead a team of researchers (CNRS, Ifremer, CSIC) to identify, using techniques based on environmental DNA, non-native and invasive marine species present in ports and surrounding natural habitats. This project will allow assessing the importance and spread of non-native species from local to European scales, and will also inform on the role of harbors in these dynamics.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<details  class=\"vf-details\" id=\"\"  >\n<summary class=\"vf-details--summary\">\nKelp microbiome across time, space and species<\/summary>\n<div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<figure class=\"vf-figure wp-block-image  | vf-figure--align vf-figure--align-inline-start   size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2560\" height=\"1472\" class=\"vf-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Kelps-TREC-sub-project-scaled-e1751208158672.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-36497\" style=\"width:400px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Kelps-TREC-sub-project-scaled-e1751208158672.jpg 2560w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Kelps-TREC-sub-project-scaled-e1751208158672-300x173.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Kelps-TREC-sub-project-scaled-e1751208158672-1024x589.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Kelps-TREC-sub-project-scaled-e1751208158672-768x442.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Kelps-TREC-sub-project-scaled-e1751208158672-1536x883.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Kelps-TREC-sub-project-scaled-e1751208158672-2048x1178.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2560px) 100vw, 2560px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>In this joint project between MPI T\u00fcbingen (GER) and SB Roscoff (FRA), we will study the biodiversity of kelp forests and their associated microorganisms in European coastal waters. We aim to link the genetic variation of two kelp species, Saccharina latissima and Laminaria hyperborea, with the diversity of their associated microbiota and viruses, focusing on intra- and inter-site variability with respect to the phylogeographic history of the populations. (BiOcean5D)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<details  class=\"vf-details\" id=\"\"  >\n<summary class=\"vf-details--summary\">\nPhytochemical Survey of Coastal Ecological Gradients<\/summary>\n<div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<figure class=\"vf-figure wp-block-image  | vf-figure--align vf-figure--align-inline-start   size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"512\" height=\"277\" class=\"vf-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/phytochemical-survey-of-coastal-ecological-gradients.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-72713\" style=\"width:400px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/phytochemical-survey-of-coastal-ecological-gradients.jpg 512w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/phytochemical-survey-of-coastal-ecological-gradients-300x162.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 512px) 100vw, 512px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>This project investigates the diversity and distribution of phytochemicals across European coastal ecosystems, focusing on how environmental gradients \u2014 such as edaphic factors and climate \u2014 influence the production of bioactive compounds in coastal plant species. By integrating high-throughput fine-scale phytochemical analyses with ecological data, the group of S. Rasman and E. Defossez at Universit\u00e9 de Neuch\u00e2tel, Switzerland, aim&nbsp;to understand the adaptive strategies of coastal flora and their potential applications in biotechnology and medicine. The findings will contribute to conservation efforts and the sustainable utilization of coastal plant resources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<details  class=\"vf-details\" id=\"\"  >\n<summary class=\"vf-details--summary\">\nCellular Adaptation to Temperature<\/summary>\n<div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<figure class=\"vf-figure wp-block-image  | vf-figure--align vf-figure--align-inline-start   size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"512\" height=\"288\" class=\"vf-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Cellular-adaptation-to-temperature.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-72695\" style=\"width:400px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Cellular-adaptation-to-temperature.png 512w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Cellular-adaptation-to-temperature-300x169.png 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 512px) 100vw, 512px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Sequencing genomes can reveal genes underlying adaptation to new environments. However, it is challenging to trace the function of a genetic change to its effect on organismal survival. Here, the Dorrity group will use a similar conceptual approach to instead profile&nbsp;<em>cells<\/em>&nbsp;in species adapted to different thermal environments, collaborating with the Arendt group to perturb cells and in genes associated with adaptation to natural thermal environments in lab populations of&nbsp;<em>Platynereis<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<details  class=\"vf-details\" id=\"\"  >\n<summary class=\"vf-details--summary\">\nEnvironmental adaptation of the Annelid brain<\/summary>\n<div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<figure class=\"vf-figure wp-block-image  | vf-figure--align vf-figure--align-inline-start   size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1528\" height=\"919\" class=\"vf-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Platy-worm_1.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1046\" style=\"width:400px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Platy-worm_1.jpg 1528w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Platy-worm_1-300x180.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Platy-worm_1-1024x616.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Platy-worm_1-768x462.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1528px) 100vw, 1528px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>This project, led by the Arendt lab at EMBL and collaborators, will explore the cellular composition of the brains and sensory structures of annelids belonging to the&nbsp;<em>Platynereis sp.&nbsp;<\/em>species complex sampled along the European coast. Using single-cell transcriptomic approaches, this project aims to characterize the cellular changes that help these animals adapt to very different environmental conditions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<details  class=\"vf-details\" id=\"\"  >\n<summary class=\"vf-details--summary\">\nPicoalgae Ressource Collection<\/summary>\n<div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<figure class=\"vf-figure wp-block-image  | vf-figure--align vf-figure--align-inline-start   size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"512\" height=\"289\" class=\"vf-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Picoalgae-Ressource-Collection.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-89821\" style=\"width:400px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Picoalgae-Ressource-Collection.png 512w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Picoalgae-Ressource-Collection-300x169.png 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 512px) 100vw, 512px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Picoalgae, photosynthetic cells with a diameter smaller than 3 \u00b5m, are tiny yet mighty primary producers in many marine oligotrophic environments. The GENOPHY team (Gwenael Piganeau, CNRS) with support from the Roscoff Culture Collection (Ian Probert, CNRS) is establishing the RBM3 picoalgae culture collection using samples from TARA and TREC collected at service sites. This RBM3 collection will provide a valuable resource for the experimental validation of the silico analyses conducted with the VV-club protocols, which explore host-virus interactions. It will also support the generation of high-quality genome, metabolome, and transcriptome reference datasets for cultivable strains, -complementing environmental meta-omics data generated by TREC.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:40px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"planetary-environmental-profiling\">Planetary Environmental Profiling<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<details  class=\"vf-details\" id=\"\"  >\n<summary class=\"vf-details--summary\">\nImpact of pesticides on marine microbial communities<\/summary>\n<div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<figure class=\"vf-figure wp-block-image  | vf-figure--align vf-figure--align-inline-start   size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"512\" height=\"290\" class=\"vf-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Impact-of-pesticides-on-marine-microbial-communities.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-73407\" style=\"width:400px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Impact-of-pesticides-on-marine-microbial-communities.png 512w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Impact-of-pesticides-on-marine-microbial-communities-300x170.png 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 512px) 100vw, 512px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>As part of the TREC expedition, the Vincent lab at EMBL investigated how pesticides affect marine microbial communities along the Atlantic coasts of France and Spain. We tested the effects of four widely used pesticides on microbial communities collected from six locations between Lorient and Cadix. Our results will show if and how these four pesticides affect diversity of microbial communities, especially photosynthetic microorganisms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<details  class=\"vf-details\" id=\"\"  >\n<summary class=\"vf-details--summary\">\nBiodiversity patterns of polluted sediment ecosystems<\/summary>\n<div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<figure class=\"vf-figure wp-block-image  | vf-figure--align vf-figure--align-inline-start   size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1600\" height=\"900\" class=\"vf-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/Ifremer-project_SEDIMENTs.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-18620\" style=\"width:400px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/Ifremer-project_SEDIMENTs.jpg 1600w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/Ifremer-project_SEDIMENTs-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/Ifremer-project_SEDIMENTs-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/Ifremer-project_SEDIMENTs-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/Ifremer-project_SEDIMENTs-1536x864.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1600px) 100vw, 1600px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Ifremer and EMBL teams will identify microorganism and meiofauna communities associable to specific chemical pollutions in superficial sediments collected across Europe. This project will assess how chemical contaminants affect taxonomic and functional diversity, and will identify potential indicator species as proxies of chemical contaminations (BIOcean5D and CONTRAST).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<details  class=\"vf-details\" id=\"\"  >\n<summary class=\"vf-details--summary\">\nContaminants of emerging concern: an integrated approach<\/summary>\n<div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<figure class=\"vf-figure wp-block-image  | vf-figure--align vf-figure--align-inline-start   size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2560\" height=\"1440\" class=\"vf-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Figure_TREC_CONTRAST_website-scaled.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-30203\" style=\"width:400px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Figure_TREC_CONTRAST_website-scaled.jpg 2560w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Figure_TREC_CONTRAST_website-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Figure_TREC_CONTRAST_website-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Figure_TREC_CONTRAST_website-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Figure_TREC_CONTRAST_website-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Figure_TREC_CONTRAST_website-2048x1152.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2560px) 100vw, 2560px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>As part of the CONTRAST project, two types of optimised methods will be applied to selected TREC sediment samples to map Contaminants of Emerging Concern (CECs). Three types of chemical contaminants (metals and rare earth elements, targeted organic pollutants, and untargeted organic pollutants) will be assessed in surface sediment samples using multi-component analytical tools e.g. TQ-ICP-MS, LC-HRMS, Maldi-TOF. CONTRAST is a Horizon Europe project funded by the EU.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<details  class=\"vf-details\" id=\"\"  >\n<summary class=\"vf-details--summary\">\nEffect-Directed Analysis (EDA) applied to Mediterranean Sediment<\/summary>\n<div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<figure class=\"vf-figure wp-block-image  | vf-figure--align vf-figure--align-inline-start   size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1277\" height=\"719\" class=\"vf-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Effect-Directed-Analysis-EDA-applied-to-Mediterranean-Sediment.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-72893\" style=\"width:400px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Effect-Directed-Analysis-EDA-applied-to-Mediterranean-Sediment.png 1277w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Effect-Directed-Analysis-EDA-applied-to-Mediterranean-Sediment-300x169.png 300w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Effect-Directed-Analysis-EDA-applied-to-Mediterranean-Sediment-1024x577.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Effect-Directed-Analysis-EDA-applied-to-Mediterranean-Sediment-768x432.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1277px) 100vw, 1277px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>NIVA, IEO, and Ifremer will evaluate the effects of sediment contamination on organisms (microalgae, echinoderms, bivalves, and fish) at different trophic levels and life stages through Effect-Directed Analysis (EDA). Sediments collected along the Mediterranean coastline contain pristine-like areas, areas influenced by agriculture, and those impacted by urbanization and port activities. This work is part of the CONTRAST project, a Horizon Europe initiative funded by the EU.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<details  class=\"vf-details\" id=\"\"  >\n<summary class=\"vf-details--summary\">\nTracing Environmental Processes with Ba Isotopic Signatures<\/summary>\n<div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<figure class=\"vf-figure wp-block-image  | vf-figure--align vf-figure--align-inline-start   size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"512\" height=\"288\" class=\"vf-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Tracing-BA-in-coastal-waters_TREC-plugin-image_LEMAR.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-41643\" style=\"width:400px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Tracing-BA-in-coastal-waters_TREC-plugin-image_LEMAR.jpg 512w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Tracing-BA-in-coastal-waters_TREC-plugin-image_LEMAR-300x169.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 512px) 100vw, 512px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>We aim to utilise barium (Ba) isotopic signatures as a powerful tool for tracing various environmental processes, particularly in coastal ecosystems. By analysing Ba isotopic signatures in soils, rivers, and seawater, we can gain insights into Ba cycling and its interaction with physical and biogeochemical processes. Ba isotopes can help trace long-term changes in river discharges, continental margin inputs, and past ocean productivity. This work will be done at LEMAR (FRA).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<details  class=\"vf-details\" id=\"\"  >\n<summary class=\"vf-details--summary\">\nOPE and PFAS Pollution in European Coastal Waters<\/summary>\n<div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<figure class=\"vf-figure wp-block-image  | vf-figure--align vf-figure--align-inline-start   size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1600\" height=\"843\" class=\"vf-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/PFAS-TREC-project_Maria-Vila-costa.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-70231\" style=\"width:400px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/PFAS-TREC-project_Maria-Vila-costa.png 1600w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/PFAS-TREC-project_Maria-Vila-costa-300x158.png 300w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/PFAS-TREC-project_Maria-Vila-costa-1024x540.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/PFAS-TREC-project_Maria-Vila-costa-768x405.png 768w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/PFAS-TREC-project_Maria-Vila-costa-1536x809.png 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1600px) 100vw, 1600px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>This project investigates organophosphate esters (OPEs) and perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in European coastal waters. By combining targeted and non-targeted chemical analysis with microbial data from the TREC expedition, the Vila-Costa group at the IDAEA-CSIC in Barcelona aims to assess pollution sources, distribution, and potential biodegradation of these persistent and toxic compounds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<details  class=\"vf-details\" id=\"\"  >\n<summary class=\"vf-details--summary\">\nMetal pollution around European coastline<\/summary>\n<div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<figure class=\"vf-figure wp-block-image  | vf-figure--align vf-figure--align-inline-start   size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2560\" height=\"1802\" class=\"vf-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Sampling_Marathon_Greece-13-scaled.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-65541\" style=\"width:400px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Sampling_Marathon_Greece-13-scaled.jpg 2560w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Sampling_Marathon_Greece-13-300x211.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Sampling_Marathon_Greece-13-1024x721.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Sampling_Marathon_Greece-13-768x541.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Sampling_Marathon_Greece-13-1536x1081.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Sampling_Marathon_Greece-13-2048x1442.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2560px) 100vw, 2560px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>This project aims to study the distribution and the concentration of metals along the European coastline by analyzing a large number of soils and sediments. In addition to the metal distribution, our group (Ifremer and Nantes University) studies the potential sources (natural and anthropogenic sources) and transport of these pollutants. We will also assess the potential risk to wildlife and biodiversity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<details  class=\"vf-details\" id=\"\"  >\n<summary class=\"vf-details--summary\">\nTrace metals distribution along European coasts<\/summary>\n<div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<figure class=\"vf-figure wp-block-image  | vf-figure--align vf-figure--align-inline-start   size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"512\" height=\"237\" class=\"vf-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Trace-metals-distribution-along-European-coasts.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-72887\" style=\"width:400px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Trace-metals-distribution-along-European-coasts.png 512w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Trace-metals-distribution-along-European-coasts-300x139.png 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 512px) 100vw, 512px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Trace metals play a key role in marine ecosystems. Their spatial distribution along Europe\u2019s coasts is essential for assessing ecosystem health and managing human-induced pressures. Originating from both natural and anthropogenic sources, they influence biogeochemical processes and enable the tracing of water masses and ocean dynamics. Their monitoring, led by LEMAR lab (CNRS), contributes to a better understanding of long-term environmental changes, and supports the development of policies to protect coastal zones and adapt to climate change.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<details  class=\"vf-details\" id=\"\"  >\n<summary class=\"vf-details--summary\">\nMapping lithium: natural versus anthropogenic sources<\/summary>\n<div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<figure class=\"vf-figure wp-block-image  | vf-figure--align vf-figure--align-inline-start   size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"458\" height=\"257\" class=\"vf-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Mapping-lithium.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-72899\" style=\"width:400px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Mapping-lithium.png 458w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Mapping-lithium-300x168.png 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 458px) 100vw, 458px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Concentrations and isotopic compositions of lithium will be measured in waters in order to quantify anthropogenic contamination in littoral waters impacted by variable river inputs and anthropogenic activities (LOV, CNR, and supported by ERC Adv&nbsp;<em>SeaLi2Bio<\/em>&nbsp;project).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:40px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"planetary-processes\">Planetary processes<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<details  class=\"vf-details\" id=\"\"  >\n<summary class=\"vf-details--summary\">\nBiogeochemical cycles driven by biodiversity at the land-sea interface<\/summary>\n<div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<figure class=\"vf-figure wp-block-image  | vf-figure--align vf-figure--align-inline-start   size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1600\" height=\"1200\" class=\"vf-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/biogeochemical-cycles-TREC_samuel.jpeg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-9324\" style=\"width:400px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/biogeochemical-cycles-TREC_samuel.jpeg 1600w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/biogeochemical-cycles-TREC_samuel-300x225.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/biogeochemical-cycles-TREC_samuel-1024x768.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/biogeochemical-cycles-TREC_samuel-768x576.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/biogeochemical-cycles-TREC_samuel-1536x1152.jpeg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1600px) 100vw, 1600px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The biogeochemical cycles are strongly related to the living organisms of the ecosystems, from the photosynthesis to the decomposition and persistence functions. Dr Abiven\u2019s team from CNRS and Ecole Normale Sup\u00e9rieure Ulm, will take advantage of the TREC expedition to study carbon, nitrogen and phosphorus cycles in soils, sediments and water, and relate their dynamics and long term persistence to the living organisms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<details  class=\"vf-details\" id=\"\"  >\n<summary class=\"vf-details--summary\">\nMicrobe-DOM interactions along coastal gradients<\/summary>\n<div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<figure class=\"vf-figure wp-block-image  | vf-figure--align vf-figure--align-inline-start   size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1964\" height=\"1150\" class=\"vf-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/FT-ICR-MS_TREC-web-jessika-fussel.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-10118\" style=\"width:400px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/FT-ICR-MS_TREC-web-jessika-fussel.jpg 1964w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/FT-ICR-MS_TREC-web-jessika-fussel-300x176.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/FT-ICR-MS_TREC-web-jessika-fussel-1024x600.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/FT-ICR-MS_TREC-web-jessika-fussel-768x450.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/FT-ICR-MS_TREC-web-jessika-fussel-1536x899.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1964px) 100vw, 1964px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Environmental factors control Microbe-DOM (dissolved organic matter) interactions that result in the consumption, modification and extreme diversification of dissolved organic compounds and are central to marine carbon cycling and sequestration. The interrelations between environmental gradients along the European coast and the fate of DOM will be the focus of Thorsten Dittmar\u2019s lab at the University of Oldenburg during the TREC expedition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<details  class=\"vf-details\" id=\"\"  >\n<summary class=\"vf-details--summary\">\nHyperspectral Bio-Optical Observations Sailing on Tara (HyperBOOST)<\/summary>\n<div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<figure class=\"vf-figure wp-block-image  | vf-figure--align vf-figure--align-inline-start   size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"3000\" height=\"1688\" class=\"vf-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/HyperBOOST-graphic-for-web.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-16358\" style=\"width:400px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/HyperBOOST-graphic-for-web.png 3000w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/HyperBOOST-graphic-for-web-300x169.png 300w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/HyperBOOST-graphic-for-web-1024x576.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/HyperBOOST-graphic-for-web-768x432.png 768w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/HyperBOOST-graphic-for-web-1536x864.png 1536w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/HyperBOOST-graphic-for-web-2048x1152.png 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 3000px) 100vw, 3000px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The 2-year project funded by The European Space Agency focuses on the validation of satellite data through&nbsp;<em>in situ<\/em>&nbsp;observations collected via the TREC&nbsp;(TRaversing European Coastlines) expedition around the European coast.&nbsp;<br>Using new and existing instrumentation and sampling methods, the project provides vital data for optically complex coastal waters to help monitor biodiversity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<details  class=\"vf-details\" id=\"\"  >\n<summary class=\"vf-details--summary\">\nChemical profiling of xenobiotics and microbial pollutant degradation<\/summary>\n<div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<figure class=\"vf-figure wp-block-image  | vf-figure--align vf-figure--align-inline-start   size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2560\" height=\"1440\" class=\"vf-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/MichiZimmermann-trec-project_picture_20230712_16_9-scaled.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-16436\" style=\"width:400px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/MichiZimmermann-trec-project_picture_20230712_16_9-scaled.jpg 2560w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/MichiZimmermann-trec-project_picture_20230712_16_9-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/MichiZimmermann-trec-project_picture_20230712_16_9-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/MichiZimmermann-trec-project_picture_20230712_16_9-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/MichiZimmermann-trec-project_picture_20230712_16_9-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/MichiZimmermann-trec-project_picture_20230712_16_9-2048x1152.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2560px) 100vw, 2560px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The Zimmermann group (EMBL) will track the abundance of xenobiotics at different sites, focusing on compounds such as pesticides, pharmaceuticals, antibiotics and synthetic hormones. A major aim is to define environmental biomarkers of pollutant exposure, such as microbial taxa or enzymes responsible for degrading these chemicals, or the downstream transformation products released into the environment following microbial degradation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<details  class=\"vf-details\" id=\"\"  >\n<summary class=\"vf-details--summary\">\nChemical fingerprinting of marine plankton<\/summary>\n<div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<figure class=\"vf-figure wp-block-image  | vf-figure--align vf-figure--align-inline-start   size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1224\" height=\"868\" class=\"vf-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/Pohnert_picture.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-18618\" style=\"width:400px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/Pohnert_picture.png 1224w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/Pohnert_picture-300x213.png 300w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/Pohnert_picture-1024x726.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/Pohnert_picture-768x545.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1224px) 100vw, 1224px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The work of the Pohnert-group focuses on the study of chemical signals within plankton and their impact at the scale of planktonic communities. During the TREC project, we will use Liquid Chromatography coupled with Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS) to determine the chemical fingerprint of marine plankton and elucidate the impact of different environmental factors on the metabolome of the marine microbiome.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<details  class=\"vf-details\" id=\"\"  >\n<summary class=\"vf-details--summary\">\nCarbon fluxes at the land-sea interface: the crucial role of DOM<\/summary>\n<div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<figure class=\"vf-figure wp-block-image  | vf-figure--align vf-figure--align-inline-start   size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1497\" height=\"835\" class=\"vf-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/DOM-plugin_Santinelli.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-20832\" style=\"width:400px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/DOM-plugin_Santinelli.png 1497w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/DOM-plugin_Santinelli-300x167.png 300w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/DOM-plugin_Santinelli-1024x571.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/DOM-plugin_Santinelli-768x428.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1497px) 100vw, 1497px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Santinelli\u2019s group at the Biophysics Institute (CNR, Pisa) will gain new insights into the main processes affecting the largest reservoir of organic carbon on our planet (Dissolved Organic Matter, DOM) at the land-sea interface and will quantify the dissolved organic carbon input from land to the coastal European areas. DOM concentration and quality have been reported to affect microbial biodiversity and ecosystem functioning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<details  class=\"vf-details\" id=\"\"  >\n<summary class=\"vf-details--summary\">\nMetagenomic insights into nutrient cycling dynamics<\/summary>\n<div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<figure class=\"vf-figure wp-block-image  | vf-figure--align vf-figure--align-inline-start   size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1152\" height=\"648\" class=\"vf-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Bork-TREC-project_element-cycling.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-31227\" style=\"width:400px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Bork-TREC-project_element-cycling.png 1152w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Bork-TREC-project_element-cycling-300x169.png 300w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Bork-TREC-project_element-cycling-1024x576.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Bork-TREC-project_element-cycling-768x432.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1152px) 100vw, 1152px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>This project leverages metagenomics to capture the distribution and dynamics of microbial nutrient cycling pathways. By integrating large datasets from diverse ecosystems, it aims to unveil global patterns of carbon sequestration and nitrogen fixation, highlighting the impact of anthropogenic activities. Led by the Bork group, this research endeavors to provide cross-environment insights into the microbial underpinnings of nutrient cycling.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<details  class=\"vf-details\" id=\"\"  >\n<summary class=\"vf-details--summary\">\nCoastal Diazotrophy along the Mediterranean coast<\/summary>\n<div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<figure class=\"vf-figure wp-block-image  | vf-figure--align vf-figure--align-inline-start   size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"512\" height=\"288\" class=\"vf-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/TREC-plugin-image_Coastal-DiazotrophyAlongMediterraneanCoast.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-49981\" style=\"width:400px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/TREC-plugin-image_Coastal-DiazotrophyAlongMediterraneanCoast.jpg 512w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/TREC-plugin-image_Coastal-DiazotrophyAlongMediterraneanCoast-300x169.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 512px) 100vw, 512px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Nitrogen is a key building block for life but its availability is often limited in the ocean. Diazotrophs can overcome this&nbsp; limitation by converting the N2 gas into bioavailable nitrogen. In this project, a team of researchers from Ifremer, CEA, UBO and SZN&nbsp; will measure N2 fixation rates along the mediterranean coastline and combine it with immunolabeling to identify the key players.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<details  class=\"vf-details\" id=\"\"  >\n<summary class=\"vf-details--summary\">\nDissolved gas measurements in oceanic and coastal waters<\/summary>\n<div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<figure class=\"vf-figure wp-block-image  | vf-figure--align vf-figure--align-inline-start   size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"512\" height=\"288\" class=\"vf-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Dissolved-gas-measurements-in-oceanic-and-coastal-waters.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-73025\" style=\"width:400px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Dissolved-gas-measurements-in-oceanic-and-coastal-waters.jpg 512w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Dissolved-gas-measurements-in-oceanic-and-coastal-waters-300x169.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 512px) 100vw, 512px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>This project, led by Ulisse Cardini (SZN), investigates dissolved oxygen, nitrogen, and dimethylsulfide (DMS) saturation in coastal waters to assess key biological processes and understand their role in climate regulation at the land-sea interface. Our work contributes to the Tara Europa and BiOcean5D projects, integrating with TREC to improve climate models and ocean health predictions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<details  class=\"vf-details\" id=\"\"  >\n<summary class=\"vf-details--summary\">\nAn inseparable liaison: microbial diversity and DOM dynamics in coastal areas<\/summary>\n<div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<figure class=\"vf-figure wp-block-image  | vf-figure--align vf-figure--align-inline-start   size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"512\" height=\"352\" class=\"vf-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/microbial-diversity-and-DOM-dynamics-in-coastal-areas.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-73027\" style=\"width:400px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/microbial-diversity-and-DOM-dynamics-in-coastal-areas.png 512w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/microbial-diversity-and-DOM-dynamics-in-coastal-areas-300x206.png 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 512px) 100vw, 512px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>This project investigates the link between microbial diversity and functions and DOM (DOC concentration and optical properties) at the land-sea interface. In collaboration with the Santinelli group in Pisa, the Bork group at EMBL will investigate the role of different pools of DOM (defined based on their optical properties) in shaping the biodiversity and ecosystem functions of marine microbes. This research will enhance our understanding of carbon fluxes and transformations in coastal ecosystems.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<details  class=\"vf-details\" id=\"\"  >\n<summary class=\"vf-details--summary\">\nBiogeography of diazotrophs in the coastal ecosystem<\/summary>\n<div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<figure class=\"vf-figure wp-block-image  | vf-figure--align vf-figure--align-inline-start   size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1126\" class=\"vf-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/20230728_083354-l.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-73427\" style=\"width:400px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/20230728_083354-l.jpg 2000w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/20230728_083354-l-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/20230728_083354-l-1024x577.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/20230728_083354-l-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/20230728_083354-l-1536x865.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>This project will use metagenomic and environmental data from the TREC expedition sampling to study microbial nitrogen cycling. By linking gene abundances and genomic data with pollution and environmental metadata, the Bork group at EMBL aims to understand how human activity shapes the coastal nitrogen cycle and identify novel nitrogen fixers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<details  class=\"vf-details\" id=\"\"  >\n<summary class=\"vf-details--summary\">\nHuman Impact on the Global Microbial Nitrogen Cycle<\/summary>\n<div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<figure class=\"vf-figure wp-block-image  | vf-figure--align vf-figure--align-inline-start   size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1117\" class=\"vf-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/IMG_8158-l-e1751870751855.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-73431\" style=\"width:400px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/IMG_8158-l-e1751870751855.jpg 2000w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/IMG_8158-l-e1751870751855-300x168.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/IMG_8158-l-e1751870751855-1024x572.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/IMG_8158-l-e1751870751855-768x429.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/IMG_8158-l-e1751870751855-1536x858.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>This project investigates how human activities, such as pollution and climate change, disrupt microbial nitrogen cycling in oceans and soils. By scaling from TREC samples to global metagenomic data sets, it aims to map nitrogen-related microbial processes, assess pollution effects, and identify bioindicators. Led by the Bork group, this research supports sustainable ecosystem management and pollution monitoring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<details  class=\"vf-details\" id=\"\"  >\n<summary class=\"vf-details--summary\">\nCapturing DOM dynamics in coastal areas using satellite<\/summary>\n<div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<figure class=\"vf-figure wp-block-image  | vf-figure--align vf-figure--align-inline-start   size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"466\" height=\"262\" class=\"vf-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Capturing-DOM-dynamics-in-coastal-areas-using-satellite.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-74711\" style=\"width:400px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Capturing-DOM-dynamics-in-coastal-areas-using-satellite.png 466w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Capturing-DOM-dynamics-in-coastal-areas-using-satellite-300x169.png 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 466px) 100vw, 466px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Satellite is a powerful tool to investigate DOM dynamics in coastal areas, where terrestrial inputs vary in both space and time and play a crucial role in carbon budget. With the support of ESA HyperBOOST project, Santinelli\u2019s group (CNR, Pisa), in strict collaboration with Emmanuel Boss (UMaine), will use TREC DOM data to validate available satellite algorithms for CDOM and DOC and to eventually improve their performance, opening to the possibility to fill many of the gaps in knowledge with a focus on anthropogenic activities and climate change impacts on DOM dynamics.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<details  class=\"vf-details\" id=\"\"  >\n<summary class=\"vf-details--summary\">\nInvestigating Xenobiotics as Drivers of Antimicrobial Resistance in Coastal Ecosystems<\/summary>\n<div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<figure class=\"vf-figure wp-block-image  | vf-figure--align vf-figure--align-inline-start   size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2293\" height=\"1211\" class=\"vf-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Figure_environmental_resistance2.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-89825\" style=\"width:400px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Figure_environmental_resistance2.png 2293w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Figure_environmental_resistance2-300x158.png 300w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Figure_environmental_resistance2-1024x541.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Figure_environmental_resistance2-768x406.png 768w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Figure_environmental_resistance2-1536x811.png 1536w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Figure_environmental_resistance2-2048x1082.png 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2293px) 100vw, 2293px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The Petras Group at the University of California Riverside, jointly with the Hass Group at the NIOZ Institute, investigates dissolved organic matter (DOM) and its relation to the marine microbial community. Using non-targeted LC-MS\/MS data from TREC samples, we will correlate xenobiotics to antimicrobial resistance-gene abundance and determine how alterations in the DOM chemistry drive microbial community composition and functioning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:40px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"paleocore-studies\">Paleocore Studies<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<details  class=\"vf-details\" id=\"\"  >\n<summary class=\"vf-details--summary\">\nCoastal biodiversity changes assessed by sedimentary paleogenomics<\/summary>\n<div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<figure class=\"vf-figure wp-block-image  | vf-figure--align vf-figure--align-inline-start   size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1102\" height=\"692\" class=\"vf-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/Paleogenomics_Raffaele-Siano.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-2816\" style=\"width:400px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/Paleogenomics_Raffaele-Siano.png 1102w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/Paleogenomics_Raffaele-Siano-300x188.png 300w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/Paleogenomics_Raffaele-Siano-1024x643.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/Paleogenomics_Raffaele-Siano-768x482.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1102px) 100vw, 1102px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>In the frame of the EU BIOcean5D project, Dr Siano (Ifremer) will lead a multidisciplinary research team to assess the effect of human pollution across European coastal ecosystems over the Anthropocene period. Using sediment core bio-geochemical archives, human pollution traces will be associated with inter-site community changes, invasive species dynamics, and emergent risk for human and coastal resources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<details  class=\"vf-details\" id=\"\"  >\n<summary class=\"vf-details--summary\">\nResurrection ecology to test for marine phytoplankton adaptation<\/summary>\n<div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<figure class=\"vf-figure wp-block-image  | vf-figure--align vf-figure--align-inline-start   size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2263\" height=\"1618\" class=\"vf-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/diatoms_Sjoqvist.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-8866\" style=\"width:400px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/diatoms_Sjoqvist.jpg 2263w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/diatoms_Sjoqvist-300x214.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/diatoms_Sjoqvist-1024x732.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/diatoms_Sjoqvist-768x549.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/diatoms_Sjoqvist-1536x1098.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/diatoms_Sjoqvist-2048x1464.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2263px) 100vw, 2263px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The Sj\u00f6qvist group at Turku University will document potential evolution in marine phytoplankton across European waters to clarify the adaptation potential in key species to ongoing climate change. The field of resurrection ecology offers a \u201cbackward-in-time\u201d approach via hatching of dormant life stages. This enables the direct quantification of phenotypes and comparison of genetic material across temporal scales.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<details  class=\"vf-details\" id=\"\"  >\n<summary class=\"vf-details--summary\">\nQuantification of human influence on the marine ecosystem<\/summary>\n<div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<figure class=\"vf-figure wp-block-image  | vf-figure--align vf-figure--align-inline-start   size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1559\" height=\"877\" class=\"vf-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Sildever-Quantification.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-72869\" style=\"width:400px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Sildever-Quantification.jpg 1559w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Sildever-Quantification-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Sildever-Quantification-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Sildever-Quantification-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Sildever-Quantification-1536x864.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1559px) 100vw, 1559px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Human-induced eutrophication has a profound effect on the functioning of marine ecosystems. TalTech team investigates historical anthropogenic pollution and its influence on biodiversity and the environmental status of marine ecosystems in different European marine areas. This project focuses on sediment phosphorus storage and release, as well as on deoxygenation of the seabed and bottom water layer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:40px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"anthropology\">Anthropology &amp; Citizen Science<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<details  class=\"vf-details\" id=\"\"  >\n<summary class=\"vf-details--summary\">\n\u2018Seatizen\u2019 science to change the scale of measuring aquatic microbiomes<\/summary>\n<div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<figure class=\"vf-figure wp-block-image  | vf-figure--align vf-figure--align-inline-start   size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1198\" height=\"680\" class=\"vf-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/P2-TREC-web_Fabien.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-7844\" style=\"width:400px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/P2-TREC-web_Fabien.png 1198w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/P2-TREC-web_Fabien-300x170.png 300w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/P2-TREC-web_Fabien-1024x581.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/P2-TREC-web_Fabien-768x436.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1198px) 100vw, 1198px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>De Vargas and Lombard (CNRS &amp; SU) will deploy innovative frugal tools in research and sea-worker\/user communities along the TREC voyage, toward a cooperative and long-term measure of aquatic biodiversity. \u2018Seatizen\u2019 will be trained to use the \u2018Planktoscope\u2019 and \u2018Lamprey\u2019 systems, and generate consistent quantitative imaging and molecular data across ecologically and economically relevant regions, integrated into global databases. (BIOcean5D)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<details  class=\"vf-details\" id=\"\"  >\n<summary class=\"vf-details--summary\">\nHealthXCross: An Anthropology of Biosciences<\/summary>\n<div class=\"acf-innerblocks-container\">\n\n<figure class=\"vf-figure wp-block-image  | vf-figure--align vf-figure--align-inline-start   size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"495\" height=\"512\" class=\"vf-figure__image\" src=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/HealthXCross.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-72671\" style=\"width:400px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/HealthXCross.png 495w, https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/HealthXCross-290x300.png 290w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 495px) 100vw, 495px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Microbiome science reveals how microbes connect human and environmental health, blurring the boundaries between bodies and their surroundings. The ERC project HealthXCross at the Ca\u2019 Foscari University of Venice, led by Roberta Raffaet\u00e0 is an ethnographic study examining how interdisciplinary scientific platforms using microbial data across time, space, and species are reshaping health concepts. The project investigates how approaching environments as bodies\u2014and vice versa\u2014transforms: biological diversity understanding, innovation across regions, and health governance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/details>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div><!--[vf\/content]-->\n<div class=\"vf-content\">\n\n<div class=\"vf-content--grey-box\">\n\n\n<div class=\"vf-links\">\n      <h3 class=\"vf-links__heading\">Navigate to topic of interest <\/h3>\n    <ul class=\"vf-links__list vf-list\">\n    <li class=\"vf-list__item\">\n          <a class=\"vf-list__link\" href=\"#planetary-microbial-systems-biology\">\n        Planetary Microbial Systems Biology      <\/a>\n      <\/li>\n    <li class=\"vf-list__item\">\n          <a class=\"vf-list__link\" href=\"#microbial-organismal-interactions\">\n        Microbial &amp; Organismal Interactions      <\/a>\n      <\/li>\n    <li class=\"vf-list__item\">\n          <a class=\"vf-list__link\" href=\"#ecology-of-selected-meio-macro-taxa\">\n        Ecology of Selected Meio\/Macro Taxa      <\/a>\n      <\/li>\n    <li class=\"vf-list__item\">\n          <a class=\"vf-list__link\" href=\"#planetary-environmental-profiling\">\n        Planetary Environmental Profiling      <\/a>\n      <\/li>\n    <li class=\"vf-list__item\">\n          <a class=\"vf-list__link\" href=\"#planetary-processes\">\n        Planetary Processes      <\/a>\n      <\/li>\n    <li class=\"vf-list__item\">\n          <a class=\"vf-list__link\" href=\"#paleocore-studies\">\n        Paleocore Studies      <\/a>\n      <\/li>\n    <li class=\"vf-list__item\">\n          <a class=\"vf-list__link\" href=\"#anthropology\">\n        Anthropology &amp; Citizen Science      <\/a>\n      <\/li>\n  <\/ul>\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:40px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<style>\n.vf-content--grey-box {\n  background-color: #fafafa;\n  padding: 1.5rem;\n  border-radius: 6px;\n  margin-top: 1rem;\n  margin-bottom: 2rem;\n}\n<\/style>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"template-title-left-aligned.php","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"embl_taxonomy":[],"class_list":["post-65","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"acf":[],"embl_taxonomy_terms":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/65","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=65"}],"version-history":[{"count":302,"href":"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/65\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":90701,"href":"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/65\/revisions\/90701"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=65"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"embl_taxonomy","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.embl.org\/about\/info\/trec\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/embl_taxonomy?post=65"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}