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Staff Profile

Omnia Elshorbagy

Research Fellow

Background

I am a plant pathologist specialising in plant virology, focused on developing innovative crop protection strategies using biotechnological approaches. My research focuses on the detection, characterisation and management of plant viruses, including the development of RNAi-based strategies for virus resistance induction. I have extensive experience applying advanced diagnostic techniques, including loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) and high-throughput sequencing (HTS), to improve our understanding of viral pathogenesis. My work background integrates academic research and industry experience in biocontrol to advance sustainable and science-led crop protection.

Research

The ongoing project aims to develop next-generation RNA interference (RNAi)-based plant protection strategies that integrate molecular innovation, precision agriculture, and biological disease management to reduce reliance on chemical pesticides. By triggering targeted antiviral responses in crops using dsRNA biopesticides, which offer a sustainable, low-residue alternative that mitigates environmental impact while maintaining effective disease control. The research focuses on improving the stability, delivery, and field efficacy of RNAi treatments, combined with sensor-driven precision agriculture to optimise application timing and efficiency. 

Publications