Edileusa Gerhardt
Biology
Edileusa Gerhardt graduated in biological sciences at the University of Vale do Itajaí, going on to the Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), where she completed her master’s degree in biochemistry and her doctorate. During her PhD, the biologist did a sandwich period at the Eberhard Karls Universität Tübingen, Germany. Her research project is a promising investigation into nitrogen fixation in plants, with concrete impacts on the agricultural and fertilizer industries. Focusing on the functioning of proteins from microorganisms responsible for nitrogen metabolism, Edileusa hopes to increase the efficiency and sustainability of the agroindustry. The scientist is the oldest of three sisters and left her hometown, Campo Mourão, for Balneário Camboriú to pursue her dream of studying when she was 16. In addition to her academic journey, the biologist divides her time between the classrooms and laboratories at UFPR and her family. Married since 2006, Edileuza is the mother of little Mariana, aged 5. In the time she has left, she dedicates herself to crafts and reading.
Projects
Nitrogen is one of the limiting elements for plant growth and one of the most expensive agricultural inputs. Nitrogen-fixing bacteria, such as Azospirillum brasilense, are capable of transforming atmospheric nitrogen (N2) into ammonium, which can be used by plants (reducing the need for nitrogen fertilizers), in addition to protecting plants in stressful situations, such as drought. Studies on the metabolism of A. brasilense have indicated the participation of PII proteins in the regulation of the central metabolism of this organism. In this context, understanding the function of PII will allow us to understand the interrelationships between the different bacterial metabolic pathways, contributing to the understanding of the metabolism of A. brasilense and allowing the investigation of strains with more significant potential for use in agriculture.
