Simone Castellarin

Simone Castellarin is a Professor in the Department of Applied Biology at the University of British Columbia (UBC) Faculty of Land and Food Systems. He serves as Canada Research Chair (Tier 2) in Viticulture and Associate Director of the Wine Research Centre, focusing on grapevine physiology and molecular mechanisms of fruit ripening. His work integrates genomic analysis with agronomic practices to enhance berry quality under environmental stress.

• Education: PhD and BSc in Agricultural Science from the University of Udine

Research interests center on viticulture, grapevine physiology, and molecular regulation of secondary metabolites, particularly how environmental and management practices affect fruit composition. His lab combines field experiments with genomic and metabolomic analyses to develop climate-resilient cultivation strategies.

Recent research trends emphasize genomic pathways controlling berry ripening, transcriptional regulation under stress, and agronomic interventions for quality optimization. Collaborations span North America and Europe, targeting sustainable viticulture and berry production.

• Scientific Awards
  • Rudolf Hermanns Award (2009)
  • Sigismondo Douglas Attems Petzenstein Award (2007, 2004)

As an educator, Castellarin teaches grapevine biology and trains personnel in molecular viticulture. His lab fosters interdisciplinary research on berry crops, linking climate change adaptation with genomic innovations.