Marcelo Luiz de Laia

Doctor in Agronomy (Genetics and Plant Breeding), Master in Agronomy (Phytopathology), Forest Engineer, and Bachelor in Law, with extensive experience in biotechnology applied to forestry and the sustainable management of insect pests. My research focuses on functional and structural genomics, genetic resistance, gene expression, and the development of innovative biotechnological solutions. I have been coordinating and participating in projects that integrate molecular tools and forestry management, generating significant impacts in the productive and environmental sectors. Currently, I am a professor at the Federal University of Vales do Jequitinhonha and Mucuri (UFVJM) and lead research on the identification of resistance genes to Thaumastocoris peregrinus, one of the main pests affecting eucalyptus in Brazil. The ongoing project aims to elucidate the molecular defense mechanisms of the plant and develop innovative strategies for pest control, including the validation of candidate genes for genetic improvement and genetic transformation. These actions strengthen the competitiveness of the forestry sector and contribute to environmental sustainability by reducing the need for synthetic chemical pesticides. My scientific production includes more than 50 articles published in high-impact journals, as well as participation in national and international conferences. I have extensive experience in training highly qualified human resources, having supervised 31 master's and 11 doctoral students in interdisciplinary projects in biotechnology, molecular genetics, and integrated pest management. Beyond academia, I maintain strategic collaborations with national and international companies and institutions, including Suzano S/A, Aperam Bioenergia, and Veracel S/A, which have directly invested in research on biotic and abiotic stresses in Eucalyptus. I have participated in and/or coordinated research projects funded by CNPq, FAPEMIG, and CAPES, consolidating partnerships that foster scientific and technological innovation in the agroforestry sector. My contribution to science and technology has been recognized through awards, research grants from public agencies and private companies, and participation as a reviewer for national and international journals. I am also involved in scientific project management that directly impacts public policies related to ecological restoration and sustainable forestry.Key Highlights: 1) Scientific Innovation: Application of molecular tools to identify resistance genes and develop markers for Eucalyptus genetic improvement. 3) Sectoral Impact: Significant contribution to integrated pest management in forestry and the reduction of environmental impacts in Brazilian silviculture. 3) Human Resource Training: Extensive experience in mentoring and training undergraduate and graduate students in interdisciplinary fields. 4) Strategic Partnerships: Active cooperation with companies, universities, and research centers in Brazil. 5) Academic Production: More than 50 scientific publications and continuous participation in nationally and internationally relevant scientific events. Future Objectives: To consolidate and expand research on genetic resistance to Thaumastocoris peregrinus, promoting the development of sustainable technologies and strengthening the training of new researchers in the field of forest biotechnology. (Source: Lattes Curriculum)