In June 2025, Alexandre Gonzalez, a PhD student at Clermont Auvergne University (France), carried out a Short-Term Scientific Mission at the Institute of Natural Resources and Agrobiology of Seville (IRNAS), Spain. He was hosted by Dr. José M. Torres-Ruiz, focusing on the use of the optical technique to study drought stress in plants. This innovative method enables non-invasive monitoring of leaf embolism and other physiological traits. The mission provided Alexandre with valuable training and hands-on research experience.
During his stay, Alexandre conducted experiments on Citrus jambhiri leaves, capturing images to detect embolism events and analyzing them with ImageJ software. He also developed Python-based tools to monitor leaf shrinkage during dehydration. Early findings suggested that leaf shrinkage could be a promising indicator of plant water stress. These results may support the development of precision irrigation tools for more sustainable water use.
The STSM made an important contribution to the FruitCREWS COST Action by advancing methods for studying plant responses to drought and encouraging international collaboration. The experience will directly support Alexandre’s PhD research and open avenues for future joint projects. The work was fully funded by the COST Programme.