The Eco2Wine doctoral candidates (DCs) participated in a comprehensive training week at the University of Ljubljana, organised by Uroš Petrovič and Neža Čadež and supported by a team of local PhD students. The programme focused on yeast genetics, combining theoretical lectures with practical laboratory and computational sessions.

Lectures covered the diversity of yeast species, their traits, and how these are influenced by genetic and environmental conditions. The practical components included grape sample preparation and analysis, yeast phenotyping, and species identification. These hands-on activities were particularly well received. As DC Maria Vázquez Fernández noted, “For me, it’s been super useful because it’s more practical and we can see the applications of the concepts we are learning.”

In addition to the scientific training, the programme included a session on academic writing and publishing delivered by Dr. Gianni Liti, as well as a presentation on MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowships by Dr. Stojan Sorčan, the Slovenian National Contact Point. Although the DCs are still in the early stages of their PhDs, this session served as a valuable prompt to begin considering postdoctoral opportunities. Dr. Sorčan also emphasised the importance of science communication skills, noting that many unsuccessful MSCA applications are due to poorly developed communication plans.

The training week also featured site visits to three Slovenian wineries: Eco2Wine Associated Partner Urban Petrič winery, Mulit Wines, and the Klet Brda cooperative. These visits provided insight into a range of production methods—from small-scale organic practices to large-scale conventional operations—and deepened the DCs’ appreciation of indigenous Slovenian grape varietals.

The week concluded with the Eco2Wine Midterm Meeting, which brought together all beneficiaries, DCs, associated partners, and Cristiana Branchini, the Project Officer from the EU Commission’s Research Executive Agency. Each research team provided updates on project progress and challenges. Separate, confidential meetings were also held between the DCs and the Project Officer, and between the Beneficiaries and the Project Officer, to allow space for open dialogue. While intensive, these regular meetings contribute significantly to project coordination and transparency.

The DCs have now returned to their host institutions to continue their research and are looking ahead to the next Eco2Wine training weeks, scheduled to take place in Georgia and France later this year.