RBI Team Joins E-NICHE COST Project to Advance Chemical Ecology Research
A research team from the Ruđer Bošković Institute (RBI), led by Dr. Marin Roje, is participating in the COST project E-NICHE that aims to unify the diverse fields of chemical ecology, fostering cross-disciplinary research and innovation to explore the fascinating world of natural compounds to learn how life on Earth communicates through chemical signals.
Chemical ecology, the science at the heart of E-NICHE, has always been pivotal for unraveling the complex web of interactions within ecosystems. Yet, the field's vast potential has been constrained by its fragmentation, eith reserachers in different areas seldom crossing paths. Moreover, it's been like trying to listen in on a global chat with everyone speaking different languages at the same time. E-NICHE is set to transform this landscape by bringing together a diverse coalition of scientific experts. This includes authorities on aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems, as well as natural products chemists, biochemists, ecologists, and a wide array of biologists and microbiologists.
By fostering this unprecedented level of collaboration, E-NICHE is poised to drive forward the creation of new molecules and chemical formulations. These advancements hold the promise of tackling some of society's most urgent issues, including enhancing pest control, advancing disease treatment, and conserving our natural environment. In an era where biodiversity faces significant threats from global changes, the mission of E-NICHE to explore and safeguard the chemical diversity of nature is more critical than ever.
The project's focus on sustainable solutions aligns with global efforts to achieve a more sustainable future. By fostering collaboration among diverse fields, E-NICHE aims to spark innovation and develop new insights into the chemical basis of life while paving the way for innovations that respect and preserve the planet’s delicate balance.