Published on 17 April 2025
The Insider’s Perspective series shines a spotlight on the innovative and cutting-edge stakeholders shaping the future of the algae sector. In this sixteenth edition, we highlight the work of EpiSeedLink, a €2.9 million Horizon Europe project focused on developing drought-resilient crops using nature-based solutions — including seaweed-derived technologies. Read on to discover how this research-driven initiative is advancing climate-resilient agriculture by linking plant epigenetics with marine-based innovation.
EpiSeedLink: Harnessing Epigenetics and Seaweed to Tackle Drought Stress
Drought stress is one of the most pressing challenges faced by agriculture in the context of climate change. The EpiSeedLink project, which runs until 2027, is pioneering sustainable solutions by focusing on two key strategies:
1. Understanding the molecular and epigenetic mechanisms that influence seed germination and vigour, and
2. Developing Molecular Seed Priming agents from renewable marine and terrestrial resources, such as macroalgae.
By enhancing a plant’s ability to germinate and thrive under water-stress conditions, these innovations could significantly improve food security and agricultural sustainability across Europe and beyond.
Algae-Based Molecular Priming: A Natural Boost for Crops
At the heart of EpiSeedLink’s approach is the use of macroalgae to develop natural molecular seed priming agents. These agents “train” seeds to better tolerate drought by influencing how genes are expressed – without altering the plant’s DNA. In this way, seaweed becomes not just a marine resource, but a powerful ally in building the future of agriculture.
BioAtlantis, a biotech company based in Kerry, Ireland, is leading the development of these algae-based priming agents. Collaborating closely with academic experts from the University of Galway and other institutions across Europe, BioAtlantis is also providing training and research opportunities for the next generation of plant scientists:
“EpiSeedLink is a cutting-edge research project focused on modulating the epigenetic code in crops, using novel Molecular Priming agents,” said Dr Sujeeth Neerakkal, Head of Plant Research at BioAtlantis Ltd. “Our participation is a testament to our continued commitment to advancing sustainable biotechnology and delivering proven solutions to crop growers worldwide.”
Growing Knowledge: Research, Training, and Field Trials
The project’s innovative research is carried out through laboratory and field trials using both model plants like Arabidopsis and widely cultivated crops such as tomato and oilseed rape. EpiSeedLink is also deeply committed to building capacity in the plant science field, with PhD students actively involved in groundbreaking experiments at BioAtlantis’ R&D facilities and partner institutions.
As Dr Sara Farrona from the University of Galway explains:
“Our goal is to research the potential for technologies that could help farmers grow crops under climate-related stress conditions, such as drought. As development of agricultural sustainable practices is essential in combating climate change, the goal of EpiSeedLink is to contribute to this challenge by driving progress toward a more sustainable world and advancing both foundational knowledge and practical solutions in agriculture.”
EU4Algae and the Future of Algae in Agriculture
EU4Algae continues to support cross-sector collaboration and innovation by giving the spotlight to initiatives like EpiSeedLink. By showcasing the role of algae in addressing major challenges such as drought and food security, the project helps reinforce the vital importance of marine resources in building a resilient, sustainable future for European agriculture.
Stay Connected with EpiSeedLink
To learn more about EpiSeedLink and follow their latest developments, visit their official website and follow them on X (formerly Twitter) for updates.
Contact queries can be directed to: episeedlink@cnb.csic.es.
Additional Information
About EpiSeedLink
EpiSeedLink (grant No. 101073476) is a Horizon Europe Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions project advancing sustainable agriculture through epigenetic research. The consortium involves a range of partners, including Agencia Estatal Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (Spain), BioAtlantis Ltd. (Ireland), Deutsche Saatveredelung AG (Germany), Ecole Normale Supérieure (France), Universität Regensburg (Germany), Universität Zürich (Switzerland), Université Clermont Auvergne (France), Universiteit van Amsterdam (Netherlands), and University of Galway (Ireland).
For more information visit: https://episeedlink.eu/.
About BioAtlantis
BioAtlantis is an Irish biotech company in Tralee, Co. Kerry, which employs 50+ people and exports to 30+ countries. Its involvement in EpiSeedLink highlights its role as a leader in the Irish and European bioeconomy, offering sustainable, eco-friendly crop solutions.
For more information visit: https://www.bioatlantis.com/.
About the University of Galway
Established in 1845, the University of Galway is one of the top 2% of universities in the world. It’s a bilingual university, comprised of four colleges, 18 schools and five research institutes, with more than 19,000 students, including around 3,000 international students. It has been accredited with an Athena SWAN Institutional Bronze Award, and 11 out of our 18 schools hold individual Athena SWAN Awards. It has more than 2,500 staff and research collaborations with 4,675 international institutions in 137 countries. It has 128,000 alumni, and 98% of graduates are in employment or further study within six months.
For more information, visit www.universityofgalway.ie or view all news.
Get the most from the expert commentary, views and stories from the University of Galway on the Cois Coiribe platform https://impact.universityofgalway.ie/.
Have you explored the EU4Algae Interactive Platform?
Designed to promote algae product awareness and increase consumer knowledge, the EU4Algae Interactive Platform offers a range of activities. Take the EU4Algae Quiz to test your algae knowledge, participate in our Survey to share your algae-eating habits (the first 200 respondents get a free eBook!) and play the interactive Game to discover which type of algae you are.