Our work's primary focus has been establishing the Forest Ecology Research (FER) group, fostering collaborations with other research groups at Mendel University, and creating a robust research and laboratory platform to support our research initiatives. These activities have proceeded in parallel since the project's inception. We have successfully integrated and leveraged significant resources within Mendel University in Brno, including the University Forest Enterprise Masaryk Forest Křtiny and the collections of tree pathogens, particularly those related to *Phytophthora* and *Armillaria*. This foundational work supports the main scientific objectives of EXCELLENTIA, which include:
- T1.1: Soils and the fungal community
- T1.2: Interactions between tree roots and root pathogens
- T1.3: Ecological stability of trees and mixed tree stands
- T1.4: Healthy forests and societal needs
To achieve the comprehensive research goals outlined in EXCELLENTIA, we have assembled a team of experienced and early-stage researchers. Each member of the scientific team contributes complementary skills to the group. The FER group's expertise spans several key areas, including plant ecophysiology, plant ecology, and the ecosystem functions of ectomycorrhizas, with a particular focus on their roles in resisting abiotic and biotic stress. Additionally, our plant and forest pathology research encompasses fungal and oomycete virology, forest ecology, and management, supported by extensive experience in geospatial computations, spatiotemporal modelling, and statistical analysis. We are also integrating five PhD students, who will be supervised by members of the FER group, to contribute actively to the EXCELLENTIA research program.
Furthermore, the FER group members have leveraged their connections with international scientific institutions to enhance the research capabilities of the Faculty of Forestry and Wood Technology (FFWT) at MENDELU. This collaboration has resulted in the submission of six research proposals, comprising five international and one national project. In addition, the structural changes outlined in Work Package 3 (WP3) have been successfully introduced to FFWT management, enhancing our operational framework and research environment.
