The FungiVE project combines citizen science with modern molecular biology approaches to investigate fungi inhabiting solar panels. Citizens from different regions of Slovenia participated in sampling biofilms from solar panel surfaces and contributed valuable environmental information.
At the National Institute of Biology, DNA was extracted from the returned samples and analysed using four digital PCR assays developed within the FungiMET research project. These highly sensitive assays allow reliable detection of selected fungi that are important components of biofilms growing on solar panels.
During the event, visitors will learn about the background of the research, the role of fungi and biofilms in solar panel performance, the sampling process, laboratory analyses, and the first results of the project. The presentation will also demonstrate how collaboration between researchers and citizens can contribute to a better understanding of interactions between microorganisms and renewable energy technologies.