Mgr inż. Edyta Bernat
Discipline: Agriculture and Horticulture Institute of Crop Science,
Fertilization and Soil Science – State Research Institute

I completed my internship at the Department of Cereal Crop Cultivation at the Institute of Crop Science, Fertilization and Soil Science – State Research Institute in Puławy, from 6th of  March to  May 31st, 2023. During my time at the department, I joined a scientific research team focusing on various aspects related to the growth, development, yield biology, and agrotechnics of new cereal varieties under different habitat conditions. Below, I present brief descriptions of some of the tasks I worked on:

• Research on the influence of biotic and abiotic stresses on cereal crop productivity. I analyzed how factors such as diseases, pests, water deficiency, and soil pollution affect cereal yields. In controlled conditions, I conducted experiments, monitoring plants subject to various stresses and have analyed their responses.
• Research on nitrogen utilization efficiency in cereal cultivation, focusing on optimal doses and application methods.
• Development and improvement of cereal crop production technologies. I conducted research on various cereal cultivation methods, including fertilization techniques, plant protection, and sowing dates, in order to find the most effective production methods that would ensure high yields and grain quality.
• Evaluation of the suitability of new plant protection products in cereal production technologies under field conditions. I tested fungicides, herbicides, and insecticides, analyzing their effectiveness and safety for cereal crops.
• Additionally, I participated in conducting experiments in pots and microplots, testing different factors influencing cereal crops. My tasks included preparing substrates, sowing seeds, fertilizing, monitoring growth, and collecting data. Together with the research team, we analyzed the experiment results, evaluated the impact of the tested factors on cereal crops, and drew conclusions regarding optimal cultivation conditions.

In summary, my scientific research internship at the Department of Cereal Crop Cultivation was an extremely valuable experience. Working in a research team allowed me to expand my knowledge and scientific horizons, acquire valuable research skills, and gain insight into the practical application of scientific discoveries in agriculture.

Experiments in pots.

Experiments in pots.