Our research group conducts interdisciplinary research at the interface of genetics, genomics, bioinformatics and evolutionary biology. Our work spans human health, animal sciences, biodiversity, and food authenticity, integrating experimental and computational approaches to address fundamental biological questions and develop innovative real-world applications.
Our group is supported by the state-of-the-art facilities of the Laboratory of Genetics, Comparative and Evolutionary Biology (BIOZ), housed within the Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology at the University of Thessaly. BIOZ occupies a dedicated 200 m² research facility, comprising fully equipped molecular genetics laboratories, dedicated cell culture facilities and sample processing areas that support a broad spectrum of research activities.
The laboratory infrastructure includes advanced instrumentation for molecular biology and genomics, including multiple PCR and real-time PCR systems, DNA and RNA analysis platforms, electrophoresis equipment, spectrophotometers, centrifuges, tissue homogenization systems and ultra-low temperature storage facilities. Dedicated cell culture laboratories are equipped with laminar flow cabinets, CO₂ incubators and specialized equipment for cellular and molecular studies.
In addition to BIOZ's in-house infrastructure, the research group has access to the Department's Core Research Facilities, which include fluorescence microscopy, DNA microarray platforms, HPLC instrumentation, advanced cell culture laboratories, liquid nitrogen biobanking, cold-room facilities and animal research infrastructure. These shared facilities provide a comprehensive technological environment that supports multidisciplinary research in genomics, bioinformatics, molecular biology, biotechnology and translational life sciences.
Research Projects
Our research group actively participates in competitive national and European research programmes, strengthening its research excellence through an extensive network of academic, clinical and industrial collaborations. The group has participated in COST Actions, European Science Foundation (ESF) Research Networking Programmes, Horizon 2020, and numerous nationally funded projects. These initiatives support innovative research across genomics, bioinformatics, biotechnology and sustainable agriculture, while fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and translating scientific discoveries into practical applications with societal impact.
Selected Research Projects
AgriTalentEX: A Centre for Sustainable Agricultural Innovation and Research Careers in Central and Eastern Europe. Funding Programme: Horizon Europe – WIDERA (HORIZON.4.1 – Widening Participation and Spreading Excellence). Grant Agreement: 101310991. Duration: November 2026 – October 2030
Development of a GIS- and Blockchain-Based Digital Platform for the Management of Livestock Genetic Data to Support Sustainable Livestock Farming in Thessaly. Funding Programme: ESPA 2021–2027. Funding Authority: Managing Authority of the Regional Programme "Thessaly"
ALLIANCE: A hoListic Framework in the Quality Labelled Food Supply Chain Systems' Management towards Enhanced Data Integrity and Veracity, Interoperability, Transparency, and Traceability. Funding Programme: Horizon Europe – Food, Bioeconomy, Natural Resources, Agriculture and Environment. Grant Agreement: 101084188. Duration: November 2022 – October 2025.
Characterization of Heat Stress Effects Using Omics Technologies in Dairy Cattle: Molecular Intervention Checkpoints and Development of Minimally Invasive Biomarkers. Funding Programme: Hellenic Foundation for Research and Innovation (H.F.R.I. / ELIDEK). Project ID: 16889
DigiAgriFood: Digital Transformation and Green Transition of the Agri-Food Value Chain in Central and Northern Greece. Funding Programme: Digital Europe Programme (DIGITAL) 2021–2027, co-funded by the Competitiveness Programme 2021–2027 (ESPA). Role: Project Coordinator. Duration: 2022–2025
Men Fertility: Genomics, Proteomics and Diagnosis – From the Bench to the Bedside. Acronym: Fertilaid. Funding Programme: Research–Create–Innovate (ERDF / GSRT). Project Code: T1EDK-02787. Role: Project Coordinator. Duration: 2018–2022
Increasing Dairy Cow Fertility Through the Identification and Exploitation of Genetically Thermotolerant Individuals. Acronym: THE SUMMER COW. Funding Programme: Research–Create–Innovate (ERDF / GSRT). Project Code: T1EDK-01078. Duration: 2018–2020
Development of an Innovative Genetic Selection Method for Improved Feed Conversion Efficiency in Fish. Role: Scientific Coordinator. Funding Programme: Operational Programme “Fisheries and Sea 2014–2020” – Innovation in Aquaculture. Funding: European Maritime and Fisheries Fund (EMFF) & National Resources – Greek Ministry of Rural Development and Food. Project Code / MIS: 5010669.