The scientific work of the Institute is focused on preserving biodiversity and promoting sustainable agriculture and forestry in the Adriatic karst region. Our research covers a wide range of topics – from grapevine, olive, fig, and pomegranate, to horticultural crops, forest ecosystems, and agroecological systems.
Special attention is given to the collection, preservation, and scientific evaluation of indigenous plant varieties. We manage extensive collections of genetic resources that serve as a foundation for breeding and the development of new, climate-adapted cultivars.
Our research spans the entire value chain – from soil and plant material to the final food products. We study how environmental factors, pests, and diseases affect crop growth and quality, develop sustainable cultivation methods, and assess product quality such as olive oil and wine in accredited laboratories.
An important part of our work also focuses on forest ecosystems, especially on degraded karst terrains. We study soil erosion, vegetation dynamics, and methods of biological forest restoration, aiming to preserve ecological balance and reduce the impacts of climate change.
We apply advanced analytical techniques in our daily work – including molecular genetics, spectrometry, GIS mapping, and plant tissue culture. The results of our research directly contribute to the development of sustainable agriculture, forestry, and the food industry.