Samia Gargouri

The National Institute of Agronomic Research of Tunisia (INRAT) is the oldest and most prominent public research institution in the field of agriculture in Tunisia. Operating under the dual supervision of the Ministry of Agriculture, Water Resources and Fisheries and the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research, INRAT has played a key role in the modernization of the country’s agricultural sector. Based in Tunis, the institute comprises seven specialized laboratories and five experimental research stations located across different agro-climatic zones.. INRAT conducts multidisciplinary research covering a wide range of agricultural areas such as crop improvement, plant pathology, entomology, biotechnology, animal production, and rural economy. Its core missions include developing and releasing crop varieties and animal breeds adapted to local conditions, improving agricultural production systems, supporting the agroecological transition, and contributing to innovation transfer and policy development. INRAT has strong expertise in breeding for resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses, integrated pest management, disease diagnostics, soil and water management, and the valorization of local genetic resources. The institute also plays an active role in training, supervision, and knowledge dissemination. INRAT has extensive experience in national and international research collaborations and has participated in EU-funded programs such as PRIMA and Horizon Europe. It is strongly committed to expanding partnerships within Horizon Europe Cluster 6, particularly in areas related to sustainable agriculture, biodiversity, food systems, and rural development.