Plant Science and Biodiversity Centre SAS
Topic
Mechanisms of action of toxic metalloids on fast-growing woody plants and their potential in phytoremediation
PhD. program
plant physiology
Year of admission
2026
Name of the supervisor
doc. RNDr. Marek Vaculík, PhD.
Contact:
Receiving school
Faculty of Natural Sciences Comenius University
Annotation
Metalloids with toxic effects on living organisms, especially arsenic (As) or antimony (Sb), represent a serious global environmental problem. The main source of pollution with these elements is mining and their subsequent use in various industries. They are also intensively introduced into the environment by military activities and traffic. The aim of the dissertation is to study the mechanisms of uptake, accumulation and tissue distribution of these elements, along with a detailed understanding of the anatomical, biochemical and physiological responses of fast-growing woody plants from the Salicaceae family using the full spectrum of modern methods used in the field of experimental plant biology. A comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms of responses of fast-growing woody plants to the presence of As and Sb can contribute to more effective planning and use of phytoremediation approaches and restoration of metalloid contaminated land.