About the course
Transform data into sustainable agricultural strategies.
The soil microbiome is one of the most powerful resources in modern agriculture. This theoretical-practical course is designed to empower producers, technicians, and students with up-to-date and applicable knowledge about soil microbiology and its role in agricultural productivity.
During one intensive week, the program provides the tools to interpret microbiological analyses accurately, identify key indicators of soil health and apply this knowledge in the field through real-life case studies.
What You’ll Gain
On completion of the course, you will be able to:
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Evaluate and interpret soil microbiome reports
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Identify factors affecting soil health and productivity
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Apply sustainable strategies for soil improvement
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Make technical decisions based on scientific evidence
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Actively contribute to regenerative and resilient agriculture
What You’ll Learn
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Introdução à microbiologia e sua ligação à produção de alimentos
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Processos metabólicos: fermentação, respiração e tipos celulares
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Biodiversidade do solo e distinção entre microrganismos e funções
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O papel essencial do microbioma na agricultura sustentável
General Concepts of Soil Microbiology
Soil Quality Indicators
Fundamentals of Soil Microbiome Analysis
Nutrient Cycle and Soil Fertility
Plant Health
and
Biological Control
Practical Application of Results
Structure & Modules
🧫 1. General Concepts of Microbiology
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Introduction to microbiology and its connection to food production
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Metabolic processes: fermentation, respiration, and cell types
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Soil biodiversity and distinction between microorganisms and functions
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The essential role of the microbiome in sustainable agriculture
🌱 2. Nutrient Cycles and Soil Fertility
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Microbial cycles of N, P, and K
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Impact of the carbon cycle on soil fertility
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Micronutrients and their dependence on pH
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Nitrogen-fixing microorganisms and fertilizer cost reduction
🧪 3. Soil Quality Indicators
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Interpretation of physical and chemical characteristics
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Indices of biodiversity, functionality, and microbial resilience
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Real-life example: nitrogen fixation with molybdenum
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Regenerative vs. conventional practices and their impact on microbial health
🌿 4. Plant Health and Biological Control
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Disease-suppressive and disease-conductive soils
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Reading and interpreting risk indicators in reports
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Biocontrol agents and phytohormone production
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Adaptation to stress and promotion of natural resistance
🧬 5. Fundamentals of Soil Microbial Analysis
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Analysis technologies: DNA sequencing, enzymatic, microscopy
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Sample collection and interpretation
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Reading reports: ratios (fungi/bacteria, C:N), link to soil use
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Practical application of data for agricultural decisions
🧑🔬 6. Practical Part and Group Work
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Analysis of a real case
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Preparation of a technical bulletin
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Teamwork with specialized technical mentoring
🎤 7. Closing and Final Presentations
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Final pitch by the groups
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Presentation of the cases analyzed
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Virtual visit to the ArrudaLab Laboratory
Speakers
Contacts
