Biotechnology and Agriculture Division
Dr. HARFI Boualem
Research DirectorDirector of research and trained agronomist, his research work focuses on biotechnologies applied to plants, particularly the genetic engineering of plants (cultivated and spontaneous).
Presentation
Satisfying food needs requires obtaining improved varieties and breeds, suitable for resource-efficient and environmentally friendly production systems. Current research work, within the research division, is oriented towards the identification and valorization of local microbial, animal and plant genetic resources. For crops, the aim is to improve traits of agronomic interest in order to increase production and resistance to biotic and abiotic stress. For livestock, the target is to improve zootechnical performance (nutrition, production and reproduction). For microorganisms, this involves research on pathogens and antagonistic agents. The research work within the division is distinguished, in part, by the involvement of biotechnological tools as well as “omics” technologies.