From 3–16 July 2025, Vasileios Voulgaridis, completed a Short-Term Scientific Mission (STSM) at the Cyprus University of Technology (CUT) in Limassol. He was hosted by Prof. George Manganaris, head of the Fruit Sciences research group. The aim of his visit was to receive training on physiological, biochemical, and cellular damage indicators in plants under stress conditions, especially drought and salinity. This experience provided both laboratory and field-based learning relevant to FruitCREWS objectives.
During the mission, Vasileios was trained in analytical techniques such as the lipid peroxidation protocol, hydrogen peroxide and NO quantification, and the proline assay protocol. These methods are crucial for evaluating cellular damage and tolerance under stress. He also gained practical experience with the LICOR LI-600 Porometer/Fluorometer, performing measurements of stomatal conductance, transpiration, and chlorophyll fluorescence in strawberry plants under stress experiments. The first week was dedicated to familiarization with ongoing trials, while the second week focused on active participation and independent practice.
The mission strengthened expertise of Vasileios in stress physiology and enhanced his ability to conduct experiments under time constraints. For FruitCREWS, the STSM contributed to capacity building by equipping a young researcher with advanced skills that support the Action’s goals of understanding plant responses to water deficit and improving sustainable fruit crop management. The mission was fully funded by the COST Programme.