CNR-IBBA Highlights Sustainable Soil Science, Fungi, and Plant Bioacoustics at the European Researchers’ Night in Montelibretti

Montelibretti, Italy

On Friday, September 25, 2026, the Research Area of Rome 1 of the National Research Council of Italy (CNR-ARRM1) in Montelibretti opened its doors to the public for the European Researchers’ Night within the framework of the European project “I4Science and Sustainability” (Horizon Europe – MSCA & Citizens). This event involved about 1200 participants and 45 activities (open laboratories, seminars, research demonstrations, etc.) carried out by all the institutes affiliated with CNR-ARRM1. 

The Institute of Biology and Agricultural Biotechnology of the National Research Council of Italy (CNR-IBBA) presented several interactive demonstrations, soil health research, and scientific talks bridging biology, environmental sustainability, and art.

Highlight Activities from CNR-IBBA and the SPIN-FERT Project

Among the diverse range of activities offered during the event by CNR-IBBA two key contributions in particular directly highlighted research initiatives conducted under the European project SPIN-FERT: 

1. “From Plant Bio-Electrical Signals to Plant Music” (Carmelo Cannarella – Valerio Giorgio Muzzini)

This interactive demonstration captivated audiences by exploring plant electrophysiology, soil sensing, and phytoacoustics—themes closely aligned with the SPIN-FERT project’s mandate to advance non-invasive monitoring of plant vitality and soil conditions. Researchers demonstrated how live plants respond to environmental variations, soil parameters, and biological stimuli through bioelectrical signals. By interfacing sensitive electrodes with real-time synthesis equipment, these subtle electrical impulses were converted into audible musical soundscapes. The exhibit showcased the complex sensitivity of the plant kingdom, offering a sensory bridge between botanical science, soil health, and art. In addition, younger participants had the chance to play music together with a plant using a tongue drum, resulting in a truly unique, immersive, and participatory experience.

2. “Science Dialogues: Fungi Around Us” (Flavia Pinzari)

In the dedicated “Science Dialogues” series, Flavia Pinzari delivered an engaging seminar titled “Fungi Around Us”. The presentation unveiled the vital role of fungi in everyday life, emphasizing how fungal and mycorrhizal networks support soil biology, nutrient cycling, and agricultural sustainability. Specifically, Flavia Pinzari explained how fungi colonize every corner of our planet. We constantly coexist with countless fungal species without even realizing it. Their main ecological role is to disperse and colonize: they are programmed to survive, adapt, and thrive. Fungi remind us that the world is far richer and stranger than what meets the eye. The talk explored the fungi lurking between bathroom tiles, those that make our daily bread rise, and even the micro-fungi living on our skin and within the pages of ancient books.

Bridging Science, Soil Health, and Public Engagement

The European Researchers’ Night at CNR Montelibretti successfully showed how interdisciplinary approaches—combining plant electrophysiology, soil health innovations supported by SPIN-FERT, mycology, music and art — can inspire environmental awareness. CNR-IBBA reaffirms its commitment to scientific excellence and open communication, continuing to share the beauty and societal impact of agricultural biology and biotechnology.

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