Marcella Urbano

Marcella Urbano is a Researcher at the Institute of Biosciences and Bioresources (CNR), Bari, Italy, specializing in genetic resource conservation, ancient wheat cultivation, and sustainable agronomic practices. Her work focuses on biodiversity preservation, molecular markers for crop improvement, and environmental management of protected areas.

• Education: Italian University Degree in Agriculture (1984, 110/110); Professional Agronomist certification (1985).

Research Interests: Safeguarding and valorization of plant genetic resources, cultivation of ancient wheats, assessment of agronomic aspects in protected areas, and crop improvement using seed storage proteins as biochemical markers. Her studies emphasize biodiversity, wheat flour quality, and homeology relationships.

Project Leadership: Scientific manager for germplasm rejuvenation/multiplication and distribution at CNR-IBBR's Germplasm Bank. Coordinator of educational visits and supervisor of university students. Key roles in projects like PRO.CA.NA.P.A. (Cannabis sativa germplasm), GRANOBIO (wheat sustainability), and SaVeGraINPuglia (legume/cereal conservation).

Publications: Over 15 recent articles highlight her work on glutenin subunits in wild wheats, halophyte cultivation in coastal regions, phenolic compounds in Tritordeum, virus detection in cereals, and domestication of Salicornia. Keywords span plant genetics, agronomy, molecular markers, and sustainable agriculture.