Michael Santangeli

Michael Santangeli is a researcher at the Institute of Soil Research, Department of Ecosystem Management, Climate and Biodiversity, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna (BOKU). He holds an MSc and is actively engaged in research on root exudation, plant-soil-microbiome interactions, and rhizosphere processes, particularly in maize and rapeseed. His work bridges plant physiology, soil biogeochemistry, and sustainable agriculture, with a strong emphasis on field-based studies and methodological innovation.

His research focuses on understanding how root exudation changes during plant development and under environmental stress, how root traits like root hairs influence nutrient acquisition, and how rhizodeposits are utilized by soil microbes. He has contributed to refining root exudate sampling techniques and has investigated phosphorus mobilization in the rhizosphere using advanced imaging methods. His studies often involve collaborations across disciplines and institutions, particularly within EU-funded research projects.

The recent publications highlight a consistent trend in plant-soil interactions, with a strong methodological and ecological orientation. His work spans from fundamental plant physiology to applied agricultural science, with recurring themes in carbon cycling, nutrient dynamics, and stress resilience. Key methodologies include non-targeted metabolomics, spectrophotometric analysis, and in situ visualization techniques.

Michael Santangeli has supervised at least two Master’s theses on root exudation and maize root geometry. He is involved in multiple research projects funded by the European Union, focusing on root exudation and rhizosphere processes. His work contributes to the broader goals of sustainable agriculture and soil health.

He collaborates closely with Dr. Eva Oburger and other researchers at BOKU, particularly within the Institute of Analytical Chemistry and the Institute of Soil Research. His research is supported by EU institutions under public law, indicating active project funding and institutional engagement.