Description
Nematodes, with an estimated million species, represent approximately 80% of individual animals on Earth and have adapted to nearly every ecosystem. This diversity significantly impacts human societies. In agriculture, nematodes are notorious plant pests but also serve as important indicators of soil health and help manage insect pests. In medicine and veterinary science, they are common vertebrate parasites, posing acute threats to human health. In scientific research, Caenorhabditis elegans has led to groundbreaking discoveries in development, cellular physiology, aging, and behavior, profoundly advancing our understanding of biological processes.
Despite significant technological advancements, their application in nematode research remains limited to a few European laboratories. Moreover, distinct nematode communities exist yet operate with minimal interaction among them. These lead to a fragmented research landscape. The NEXUS project (Nematode Excellence in Cross-Disciplinary Unified Solutions) aims to tackle these challenges by integrating cutting-edge technologies into nematode research and fostering collaboration across different nematode communities. NEXUS seeks to connect researchers studying C. elegans and parasitic nematodes in human, animal, and plant systems with technology experts and industry partners.
Through interdisciplinary collaboration and a variety of integrative activities, NEXUS will accelerate the dissemination of advanced technologies, promote their rapid adoption, and develop innovative solutions for health and agricultural challenges. The project’s ultimate goal is to unify and elevate nematode research across Europe, ensuring a more connected, impactful, and sustainable future for addressing global challenges in health, agriculture, and environmental sustainability.
Action keywords
Cutting-edge technologies in biological sciences - Technology transfer - Nematodes - Fundamental biological principles - Development of biomedical and agriculture solutions
Management Committee
| Country | MC Member |
|---|---|
| No records found | |
Main Contacts
Action Contacts
COST Staff
Working Groups
| Number | Title | Leader |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Live Imaging and Computational Modeling Across Scales | TBA |
| 2 | Precision Control – Chemical and Optical Tools | TBA |
| 3 | From Genome to Ecosystem – Omics Integration in Nematode Research | TBA |
| 4 | High-Throughput Screening Powered by Microfluidics | TBA |
| 5 | Promoting collaboration, training, dissemination and public engagement | TBA |
Express your interest to join any of the working groups by applying below.
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