The research conducted by the Group of Agroecology of the Institute of Plant Sciences encompasses a wide range of topics, including the study of functional biodiversity in agroecosystems, the dynamics of plant populations and communities, and the interactions between plants, insects and microorganisms.

The primary objective of the research is to understand and describe the complex mechanisms and interactions between various trophic levels within agroecosystems, with cultivated and wild plants serving as key intersections. Specific attention is paid to the interactions between plants and soil microorganisms, as well as between plants and entomofauna, and how these interactions affect ecosystem stability, resilience and ecosystem service provision. 

These effects are assessed at the levels of agrobiodiversity (genetic, species, and habitat diversity) and agroecosystem management practices at various scales, both spatial (field, farm, and landscape) and temporal (short, medium, and long-term). Particular emphasis is placed on the study of fundamental agroecological mechanisms that enhance crop protection against pests and weeds and improve crop nutrition in low-input systems (e.g. organic farming, regenerative agriculture).

Researchers in the Group of Agroecology conduct numerous long-term experiments - independently and in collaboration with other institutions - that provide valuable complementary data for analysing and modelling the effects of ecological interactions. The research extends to various production systems, including annual, perennial, and mixed systems.

To pursue its objectives, which are not limited to scientific interest, the Group of Agroecology aims to apply agroecological innovations in agrifood systems. To this end, it conducts participatory research on experimental and commercial farms, in collaboration with farmers and other actors in the agrifood chain, within the framework of agroecological Living Labs.