Samin Farhangi

My scientific journey began with an MSc and PhD in Virology, where I focused on the molecular detection and characterisation of  viruses. Motivated by a passion for data-driven discovery, I pursued an MSc in Bioinformatics at Wageningen University & Research (WUR), where I expanded my expertise to phylogenetic and molecular evolution through collaboration with the Biosystematics Group, and later to genomics as a postdoctoral researcher in the Animal Breeding Group at WUR.

At NIOO-KNAW, I work as a postdoctoral researcher in the Microbial Ecology Group within Dr. Mark Zwart team. My first project at NIOO explored the evolutionary dynamics of a baculovirus in wild insect populations. My current research focuses on the diversity and dynamics of the plant-associated microbiome in orchid tissue culture systems. By integrating molecular approaches with bioinformatics, I contribute to the development of green and sustainable strategies for microbial management.