South East Technological University (SETU) has announced the launch of an innovative research project, 'Developing Microbe and Nematode Bioindicators to Track Soil Health and Increases in Farm Biodiversity, from Paludiculture and Other Carbon Farming Measures (MicroNema4FarmC)'.
The postdoctoral project is funded through the prestigious Enterprise Partnership Scheme of Research Ireland. It is led by Dr Loriane Murphy, with mentorship from Dr Thomais Kakouli-Duarte of SETU and Dr Doug McMillan of Green Restoration Ireland (GRI).
The project will assess the ecological health of Irish on-farm peatland habitats by analysing soil microbiome and nematode diversity.
Dr Loriane Murphy said, “This project aims to bridge the gap between scientific research and practical land management. By developing reliable biological indicators of soil health, we can provide farmers with the tools they need to make informed decisions, while also supporting national efforts in climate action and biodiversity restoration.”
Soil health plays a critical role in environmental sustainability and agricultural productivity. MicroNema4FarmC focuses on developing biological monitoring tools using soil microbes and nematodes, which are highly responsive to environmental change. These bioindicators will enable more accurate assessment of ecological health, particularly in peatlands undergoing restoration or new agricultural approaches such as paludiculture. These practices support carbon capture, biodiversity restoration and cleaner waterways as well as more sustainable farming systems.
Researchers within the Molecular Ecology and Nematode Research Group, part of enviroCORE at SETU, will apply advanced molecular techniques, including DNA sequencing, to examine microbial and nematode diversity across a range of peatland habitats. This work will support the identification of reliable bioindicators that reflect soil quality and ecosystem recovery.
Healthy soils are the foundation of resilient ecosystems and sustainable agriculture. Through this project, we are developing robust, science-based tools that can help farmers and policymakers better understand and manage soil health."
Dr Thomais Kakouli-Duarte, SETU
Dr Thomais Kakouli-Duarte said, “Healthy soils are the foundation of resilient ecosystems and sustainable agriculture. Through this project, we are developing robust, science-based tools that can help farmers and policymakers better understand and manage soil health. By focusing on biological indicators, we can capture changes in soil ecosystems that are often missed by conventional methods.”
Green Restoration Ireland (GRI), the project’s enterprise partner, will support the delivery of real-world habitat restoration and Paludiculture (wetter farming) trials. In addition it will work closely with the farming community and provide access to peatland sites through its Farm Carbon Transitions European Innovation Partnership (EIP).
Dr Doug McMillan of GRI added, “This is applied science that brings together scientific expertise and practical, on-the-ground experience. By working directly with farmers, we can test and refine approaches that deliver real environmental and economic benefits. The development of reliable bioindicators will be key to supporting carbon farming and rewarding sustainable land management.”
The project is expected to deliver practical impact as it will develop standardised and cost-effective tools to help farmers and policymakers measure improvements in soil health and biodiversity. These tools may also strengthen the verification process for ecosystem service payments and carbon credits, providing direct financial support for the wider adoption of sustainable land management practices.
By strengthening the evidence base for peatland restoration, paludiculture and carbon farming, MicroNema4FarmC contributes to Ireland’s climate action and biodiversity goals. It also supports collaboration between researchers, industry partners, and landowners, creating opportunities for innovation and knowledge exchange.
The project is expected to inform improved land management strategies, support farm sustainability and profitability, and advance scientific understanding of soil ecosystems.