Academic courses
August 1, 2024 2025-11-19 23:37Academic courses
Academic courses Plant Protection department
Adaptive agriculture and water management
Specialty “Plant breeding“, Degree (“Master of science“), (I,) Type of the course: elective Credits: 6 ECTS
Course objectives:
The Master’s program aims to train staff in the field of research, analysis and selection of adaptive technologies to overcome the extreme climate impacts affecting agriculture. Students will gain knowledge to develop effective strategies for protecting and restoring water quality. In the lecture materials, the exercises will be introduced to modern water-saving technologies, ways of depositing carbon in the soil and the use of crop residues from agriculture. The course covers the organizational and regulatory aspects of water management practice: legislation, composition, storage, collection, recycling and recovery. Among the key focus points are the study of basic biological processes and their interactions, with students using analytical measurements. They will become acquainted with the direct and indirect methods that determine the occurrence of water and heat stress in plants.
Course description:
Students will be provided with information on the selection of suitable varieties according to the characteristics of the area in the lecture material and during the exercises. Due to the ever-increasing need for water worldwide, students will be taught how to use water resources comprehensively. They will be introduced to new water-saving technologies. The lecture will introduce the methods and methods for calculating the net water recruitment. They will be provided with information on relevant strategies for overcoming the adverse effects of climate change on agriculture. The exercises will introduce you to physiological methods for determining water stress in plants. In the context of the Nitrate Directive developed and adopted, they will be presented with ways of properly storing manure.
Lecturers:
Agricultural Entomology
Specialty „Plant protection“, Degree „Bachelor“, III year. Type of the course: required. Credits: 7,5 ECTS
Course objectives:
The ain of the course is to provide students with information about theoretical and applied approaches of good plant protection practice for the control of insect pests on crops.
The objectives of the course are:
– students to gain knowledge of the morphological and bioecological characteristics of insect crop pests and methods for their management following the principles of good plant protection practice;
– students to get practical skills for the determination of crop insect pests.
Course description:
In the form of lectures, students become familiar with insect pests on agricultural crops in Bulgaria. Their bioecology and the moments for control are presented in detail, following the principles of good plant protection practice.
In the form of exercises, students become familiar with the morphological features of pests and gain species-determination skills, which is one of the most important conditions for the application of adequate measures for pest management.
Lecturers:
Agricultural Phytopathology
Specialty “Plant protection“, Degree “ Master of science“, III, Type of the course: required, Credits: 7,5 ECTS
Course objectives:
The aim of the course is to acquaint the students with the main points of the nature and development of the disease infection, contamination by pathogens and mechanisms for plant protection, epidemiology, morphology, structure, classification, cycle of development and identification of phytopathogenic viruses, bacteria and mushrooms.
Course description:
The course is provided to study the most widespread and harmful plant diseases and the pathogens that cause them over the territory of the country. Students will be introduced to the basic methods for identification of phytopathogens. The latest theories, original, principle of action and possibilities for introducing plant resistance to phytopathogens are included. They will become acquainted with the biology, epidemiology and methods of control of the pests of all economically significant diseases in crops, in accordance with the requirements of good agricultural practice. The acquired knowledge during this training course is a necessary and obligatory condition for the development of solid knowledge in special phytopathology, chemical protection, monitoring of occurrence and signaling of plant diseases and pests, etc. subjects of the Plant Protection Master’s course.
Teaching staff:
Lectures: Assoc. Prof Slavcho Slavov
Exercises/seminars: Ch- Assist Prof Zhelyu Avramov
Lecturers:
Animal husbandry
Specialty “Agronomy“, Degree „Bachelor“I course. Type of the course: required Credits: 5 ECTS
Course objectives:
The knowledge gained in the field of livestock farming in the field of agronomy will allow future professionals to acquire a comprehensive view of agricultural production in a market-oriented agriculture. This, in turn, will enable them to provide farmers and farmers with competent information and qualified advice on a wide range of issues and will assist them in organizing and developing various mixed agricultural production systems, including in addition to obtaining crop production provision of own feed production and breeding of various types and categories of animals.
Course description:
In a well-balanced form, the main aspects of breeding and feeding of domestic animals are affected. The topics presented in the program under discussion convincingly argue for the inclusion of the discipline in the curriculum of students – bachelors in the specialty “Agronomy”. The review program addresses both the theoretical foundations of breeding, the methods of breeding value assessment, the specificity of selection and selection in farm animals and their breeding methods, as well as the main aspects of animal nutrition. The theoretical questions on the composition, digestibility and nutritional value of the feed are covered, the specific characteristics of the different feed groups are outlined, the recommendations for their nutrition are outlined, the principles of normalized nutrition are formulated and the technique of rationing for different types of animals is discussed. Consideration is given to organic livestock production and the quality of animal production in connection with the European integration of the country.
Lecturers:
Bee pollination
y :”Permanent crops and horticulture”,”Selection and seed production of cultural plants”Degree (“ Master of science“), (Full-time: I, Part-time: II) Type of the course: required (optional) Credits:4 ECTS
Course objectives:
The course of lectures on discipline “Bee-pollination ” introduces students of Master Course with modern concepts of biology and ecology, the honey plant, the technology of pollination of plants and increasing their yield. The lecture material also provides lessons for the development of beekeeping as an agricultural production in a market economy. Another aspect is related to the bee-pollination technologies of crops grown under industrial technologies under the conditions of specialization and concentration of agricultural production for obtaining maximum yields and high quality production of fruits and seeds.
Course description:
The course aims to give a thorough theoretical knowledge of bee pollination. Honeybees except as producers of bee products have another very bathtub activity in natural and artificial phytocenoses. Economic impact of pchelooprashvaneto is great, because the yields and quality increased repeatedly in crops. The aim of the course is to acquaint students with the importance of pchelooprashvaneto fruit and higher yields when they entomofilnooprashvashti crops. The most important groups of honey plants, the functions of the colorful and non-colorful nectarines and the environmental factors influencing the intensity of nectar deficiency are considered; characterizes the most important pollen plants.
Lecturers:
Beekeeping
Specialty „Agronomy“, Degree („Bachelor“ of science“), (III) Type of the course: required (elective) Credits:4,5 ECTS
Specialty“Plant protection“ Degree („Bachelor“ of science“), (IV) Type of the course: required (optional) Credits:4,5 ECTS
Course objectives:
The course of lectures in the discipline „Beekeeping ” introduces students to the specialty “Plant protection” with the modern concepts of biology and ecology, the honey plant, the technologies of honeybee cultivation. The lecture material also gives practical lessons for the development of beekeeping as an agricultural production in a market economy. The use of the honeybee to produce more and better quality bee products, which are irreplaceable bio-products and cannot be obtained other than by growing the honeybee. Another aspect is related to the bee-pollination technologies of crops grown under industrial technologies under the conditions of specialization and concentration of agricultural production for obtaining maximum yields and high quality production of fruits and seeds. Of great importance is the problem of protecting bees and other beneficial entomofauna from pesticides in the chemistry of crop production; for the protection of bee families from diseases and pests
Course description:
The course of lectures and seminars on the discipline “Plearrying” introduces students to the field of Plant Protection with the modern concepts of biology and ecology, the honey plant, the technologies of honey bee cultivation. The training also includes practical training for the development of beekeeping as an agricultural production in a market economy. The discipline of Beekeeping includes the following important topics:
Development of beekeeping as a science – past and present. Brief historical information.
Biology of the bee family. Breeding bee families. Honey vegetation and bee grazing. Bee products. Diseases and enemies.
Lecturers:
Biological testing and registration of products for plant protection
Specialty “Plant protection“, Degree “Master of science“, I, Type of the course: elective Credits: 4.5 ECTS
Course objectives:
To provide students with knowledge related to the modern approach and regulations for registration, authorization for use and placing on the market of plant protection products. Raising and improving the qualification and activity of plant protection professionals in the context of modern agriculture.
Course description:
An EU PPP system is in place in the EU, allowing it to operate in a harmonized and efficient system. The European Union is divided into 3 zones; North, Central and South. REGULATION (EC) No 1107/2009 OF THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT AND OF THE COUNCIL of 21 October 2009 concerning the placing of plant protection products on the market lays down the requirements, procedure and timeframes for the registration of plant protection products (PPPs). In the course of study, students are introduced to the rules for the authorization of plant protection products in commercial form and for their placing on the market, use and control in the Union. Particular attention is paid to the protection of human and animal health and the environment, as well as compliance with internal market rules, while ensuring the development of agricultural production. The acquired knowledge will contribute to the observance of “good plant protection practice” and the conditions laid down in the relevant rules of European law.
Lecturers:
Chemical Plant Protection
Specialty „Agronomy“ and “Plant protection“
Degree „Bachelor“, III, Type of the course: required, Credits: 5.5 ECTS
Course objectives:
To provide students with in-depth knowledge related to the modern approach to solving plant protection problems and environmental protection and to develop practical skills in developing plant protection schemes and cultivation technologies.
Course description:
Students studying the specialty “Chemical Plant Protection” are acquainted with all the requirements for plant protection products in the existing regulatory framework in our country and in the European Union. They gain in-depth knowledge of pesticide groups, their mechanism of action in relation to pests, their conditions and methods of application, their ability to combine. Particular attention is paid to the newly synthesized plant protection products, their environmental impact, their selectivity, and the overall toxicological characteristics of the different groups of agents.
Lecturers:
Cytogenetics
Specialty: “Selection and seed production of crop plants”, Degree “Master of science“, I year, Type of the course: elective , Credits: 3,5 ECTS
Course objectives:
The aim of the program is to get acquainted with the basics of cytogenetics and some aspects of their specific application in plant breeding in relation to the inheritance and development of plant traits in norm and pathology.
Course content:
The course in cytogenetics will allow the acquisition of in-depth knowledge in the field of plant cytogenetics, as a basis for the selection process and building on the discipline of genetics. A brief overview of the historical development of the science of cytogenetics is included, the structure and functions of chromosomes during mitosis, during meiosis, and the interaction of different molecules in the composition of chromosomes are examined. It is envisaged to study the methods for the investigation of the karyotype and for the identification of individual chromosomes in biological species. Chromosomal structural mutations and chromosomal number mutations are being studied in depth, with particular attention being paid to polyploidy – a phenomenon essential to increase the productivity and stability of plant objects, anomalies in meiosis and mitosis, and the effects of cell aging. Extrachromosomal heredity has been examined in connection with organism formation and experimental mutagenesis.
Lecturers:
Decontamination of seeds, seedlings and soils
Specialty “Plant protection“, Degree “Master of science“, I, Type of the course: elective Credits: 4.0 ECTS
Course objectives:
Introducing the students to the basic methods of decontamination of seeds, seedlings and soil against economically important diseases and pests of crops.
Course description:
The risk of spreading the contamination through seeds, seedlings and contaminated soil is high, so decontamination is in many cases a must.
In the course of study, students are introduced to decontamination as a specific plant protection activity and the rules for its implementation. Knowledge about the goals, methods and conditions for quality decontamination of seedlings and soil is deepening. The training provides hands-on activities focusing on the use of decontamination methods in the proper application of the plant protection product, adherence to preparation procedures, as well as the development of comparative judgment skills in selecting the most appropriate method and a plant protection product. Practical classes are also provided with demonstration equipment provided by leading plant protection companies.
The acquired knowledge and skills will contribute to the expansion and improvement of the qualification and activity of the plant protection specialists in the conditions of modern agriculture.
Lecturers:
Environmentally friendly methods in plant protection
Specialty „Plant protection“ , Degree “ Master of science“, I year full time, II year part time. Type of the course: required. Credits: 5 ECTS
Course objectives:
The aim of the course is to provide students with information about the possibilities of applying environmentally friendly methods for plant protection as an alternative to chemical pest control.
The course objectives are students to become familiar with the features, trademarks, and the approaches for applying of beneficial organisms in conjunction with other environmentally friendly plant protection methods, and to get skills to develop and evaluate eco-friendly crop protection programs.
Course description:
The course builds on the Fundamentals of Biological Control course for Bachelor Degree Programs, focusing on the practical application of beneficial organisms that can control the population density of the crop pests.
Students become familiar with the main characteristics of commercially available biopesticide products – biological characteristics of beneficial organisms, a product range of different bioagent manufacturers, prices of different commercial products, methods of application of specific products, as well as the possibilities for their application together with other products.
Students gain a solid knowledge of approaches for environmentally friendly plant protection with the main groups of pests – mites, whiteflies, thrips, leafminers, sciarid flies, moths, aphids, etc and phytopathogens and weeds as well.
In the form of exercises, students gain skills to develop and evaluate programs for the use of beneficial organisms together with other environmentally friendly plant protection methods.
Lecturers:
Erosion and soil protection
Specialty „Agronomy“, Degree („Bachelor“), (IV, V) Type of the course: required
Credits: 6 ECTS
Course objectives:
The main objective of this course is to familiarize students with the types of erosion, the main causes of erosion processes, factors and patterns of their development, as well as measures to protect the soil from erosion (water and wind), and / or delay / stop of the process at a certain stage in its development. Issues related to abrasive and landslide processes, the reasons for their widespread spread throughout the country and ways of preventing them are being addressed.
Course description:
The material provided in the lecture course is organized into two main parts: part I – Soil erosion as the main degradation process, the main factors for its occurrence and regularities for development; abrasive and landslide processes; part II – Measures to over com soil erosion. Attention is drawn to important European documents and National Programs which provide the means to combat these degradation processes.
During the semester, students develop course work, and during the classes, attention is paid to the main activities, through the implementation of which effectively combat erosion and restore and increase soil fertility. Students learn how to prepare anti-erosion crop rotations and simulated situations to implement various soil protection measures.
Lecturers:
Forecast and signaling
Specialty “Plant protection“, Degree „Bachelor“, IV Type of the course: required
Credits: 6.0 ECTS
Course objectives:
The purpose of this course in the course “Forecasting and signaling” is to acquaint students with the models of forecasting and the methods of providing data needed for conducting crop protection activities in crops.
Course description:
The course of study includes acquaintance of the students with a bachelor’s degree of education, a specialty “Plant protection” with the subject, tasks and goals of forecasting and signaling as a science. It covers knowledge about the role of the discipline in the integrated plant protection systems, information security, methods of information gathering, the structure and organization of forecasting and signaling in Bulgaria. In the special part, programs and schemes for the prognosis and signaling of specific diseases and pests of major economic importance for our country are developed. The exercises include the individual development of course projects for the prediction and signaling of specific diseases and pests based on an information database.
Lecturers:
Fundamentals of Biological Control
Specialty „Agronomy“ and “Plant protection“, Degree „Bachelor“, III year, Type of the course: required Credits: 5,5 ECTS
Course objectives:
The aim of the course is to provide students with information about the basic aspects in the field of biological control.
The objectives of the course are students to become familiar with beneficial organisms, which are natural regulators of the population density of harmful organisms and to acquire skills for determining the major groups of biocontrol agents.
Course description:
The course is divided into three modules:
1. Theoretical bases of biological control – students gain a solid groudig in biological control. Methods for using biocontrol agents. Conservation and support of bioagents. Introduction of alien bioagents, Mass breeding and seasonal colonization. Factors determining the effectiveness of biological agents. Advantages and disadvantages of biological control.
2. Macrobiological control of pests (predators and parasitoids) – students become familiar with to the biological characteristics of the main bioagents (predators and parasitoids), regulating pests in agrocenoses and some natural biocenoses, as follows: (1) insects belonging to order Hymenoptera Manteoptera, Dermaptera, Thysanoptera, Lepidoptera, Coleoptera, Neuroptera, Hemiptera, (2) mites, molluscs and vertebrates and (3) nematodes.
3. Microbiological pest control – students become familiar with the general concepts of insect pathology; Biological characteristics of entomopathogenic organisms – fungi, viruses, bacteria, Protista; Biological control of plant diseases.
In the form of exercises, students are become familiar with the morphological characteristics of the main groups of bioagents studied in the course. Students gain skills to work with taxonomic keys and to determine predators, parasitoids and pathogens most commonly encountered in agrocenoses of main agricultural crops.
Lecturers:
General Entomology
Specialty “Plant Protection“Degree“ Bachelor“, course III, Type of the course: required, Credits:7,0 ECTS
Purpose and objectives of the course
The main objective of the course “General Entomology” is to acquaint students in detail with the morphological, biological, physiological and environmental characteristics of insects, as well as to introduce concepts that facilitate the assimilation of the material in other, strictly profiled disciplines such as forecasting and signaling, agricultural entomology, pests of stored product, biological control and phytosanitary control.
Course Content:
The Lecture Course in General Entomology aims to introduce students to the physiological processes occurring in the body of insects, as well as their place and role in biocenoses. They will also gain knowledge of the impact of modifying environmental factors on the development and population density of insects. Laboratory exercises focus on the general structure of the insect body and the morphological features of economically important classes and families of crops.
Lecturers:
General Phytopathology
Specialty “Plant protection“ , Degree „Bachelor“, III, Type of the course: required, Credits: 7 ECTS
Course objectives:
The aim of the course is to acquaint the students of the Bachelor Degree in Plant Protection Department with the reasons for the infection of pathogens on cultivated plants and hypotheses regarding the nature, principle of action and possibilities for application of plant resistance to phytopathogens. The acquired knowledge during this training course is a necessary and obligatory condition for the development of solid knowledge in agricultural phytopathology, chemical protection, prognosis and signaling of diseases and pests, etc. Master’s Degree in Plant Protection.
Course description:
During the course, students in Plant Protection department will be introduced to the main points of the epidemiology and development of the pathological process in plants. The discipline “General phytopathology” deals with fundamental issues related to the development of phytopathology. It presents the basic concepts in phytopathology, origin of science, types of disease classifications, major groups of phytopathogens and their biology, methods for determining disease losses, the relationship between the pathogen – the host – environmental factors, the main directions and methods for control. It includes acquaintance with the main points of the nature and development of the disease process, the mechanisms of attack by pathogens and mechanisms of plant protection, epidemiology, morphology, structure, classification, cycle of development and identification of phytopathogenic viruses, bacteria, phytoplasmas and fungi.
Teaching staff:
Lectures: Assoc. Prof Slavcho Slavov
Exercises/seminars: Ch. Assist Prof Zhelyu Avramov
Lecturers:
Genetic resources in agriculture
Specialty „Agronomy“, Degree „Bachelor“, III year, Type of the course: elective, Credits: 4,5 ECTS
Course objectives:
The program is designed to familiarize students with the existing biodiversity in Bulgaria in the field of agriculture and how to conserve it.
Course content:
he course “Genetic Resources in Agriculture” broadens students’ knowledge about the conservation and long-term use of plant genetic resources, including and the main methods for the conservation of diversity in cultivated species and their wild precursors – ex situ, in situ and on farm storage. The curriculum includes lectures related to the conservation, evaluation and management of genetic resources. The obligations and responsibilities of the General Banks and the possibilities for using the stored genetic resources for the creation of new high-yielding and high-quality varieties with different qualities – adaptability, sustainability and others – are clarified. Acquaintance with the various laboratory techniques for the storage of valuable genetic specimens and the possibilities for their future use in agricultural practice. Attention is also paid to the legal framework in our country and the EU. The training course includes acquaintance with the various laboratory techniques for the storage of valuable genetic specimens and the possibilities for their future use in agricultural practice.
Lecturers:
Genetics
Specialty „Agronomy“/“Plant protection“, Degree „Bachelor“, I year, Type of the course: required, Credits: 6 ECTS
Course objectives:
The Genetics Program has been developed to acquire knowledge in the field of general genetics that is related to the assimilation of patterns in the transmission of heredity and its variability in organisms.
Course content:
The stages in the development of genetics science and the formation of the modern idea of the hereditary basis of the organismal world are considered. The subject of study are the genetic processes at population, organism, chromosomal and molecular levels, covering the whole organismal world – prokaryotes and eukaryotes (microorganisms, plants, animals and humans), as well as the sources of new hereditary variants – hybridization, experimental mutagenesis, geneengineering methods, etc. The aim is to gain basic knowledge of the structure of information macromolecules, the mode of transmission of genetic information and the expression of genes. Particular attention is paid to the genetic processes that shape and alter the hereditary structure of organisms, which are the theoretical basis of selection as a science. The genetic basis of processes such as polyploidization, heterosis, and gender formation is considered.
Lecturers:
Hydro melioration
Specialty „Soil Resources Management“, Degree (“Master of science“), (I) Type of the course: required; Credits: 6 ECTS
Course objectives:
The master’s program aims to train personnel in the field of research, design, construction and operation of irrigation systems and facilities. The lecture material and exercises are selected in order to students become acquainted with the basic hydromelioration practices and the means for improving and maintaining the optimal composition, properties and fertility of the soil through the application of irrigation activities. In a series of exercises, students will learn how to build the irrigation network relative to the field, how to size irrigation channels, be able to draw up irrigation schedules for different crops and gain knowledge of determining the sizing parameters of the channel network. They will be familiar with various software solutions when designing irrigation systems.
Course description:
Students will be provided with information on the selection of areas and the preparation of the terrain when building the irrigation system. They will become acquainted with the basic elements of irrigation systems and components of the irrigation network. Due to the ever-increasing need for water globally, students will be taught how to use water resources comprehensively.
Lecturers:
Integrated Pest Management
Specialty “Plant protection“, Degree „Bachelor“, IV year. Type of the course: required, Credits: 4,5 ECTS
Course objectives:
The aim of the course is to provde students with information about the general and specific principles of integrated pest management in the context of a European policy on the sustainable use of pesticides, to ensure both the production of quality agricultural production and to ensure a high level of protecting human health and protecting the environment from the effects of pesticides.
The objectives of the course are to provide students with knowledge of different methods and approaches for plant protection and to gain skills in the implementation of integrated pest management programs for crops.
Course description:
The course builds on students’ knowledge in the fields of Agricultural Entomology, Agricultural Phytopathology, Non-Insect Pests, Chemical Protection, Fundamentals of Biological Control and Forecasting and Signaling by presenting alternative methods of pest control their joint use with the conventional plant protection approach.
In the form of lectures, students become familiar with the possibilities of pest control with non-chemical methods such as agro-technical method, biological method, use of behavioral regulators, genetic method, physicomechanical method, etc., as well as programs for integrated pest management of 47 species. agricultural crops.
Irrigation agriculture of energy crops
Specialty “Plant breading“, Degree (“Master of science“), (I) Type of the course: required Credits: 6 ECTS
Course objectives:
To acquaint the students with the types of field crops suitable for biofuel production, their agrotechnics, and how to harvest their produce. The knowledge they receive builds on what has been learned in crop and irrigation so far. The program aims to assimilate students’ information on these issues, to acquire theoretical and practical skills, to be able to produce, upon completion of their education, the energy crops they need and to maximize their yield in the face of global climate change on earth and here.
Course description:
The lecture material will provide students with information on the importance of energy crops for agricultural production, for the protection of the environment, for reducing the dependence on imports of energy sources, and for their qualities. Field and laboratory exercises, seminars and practices will enhance theoretical and practical knowledge. The use of specialized literature by the library and teachers, the search for sources on the Internet, the preparation of abstracts and their presentation will enrich the knowledge of the students in the discipline.
Teaching staff:
Lectures: Assoc. Prof Stamen Dimitrov
Exercises: Assoc. Prof Vera Petrova
Lecturers:
Irrigation and Drainage
Degree („Bachelor“), (IV) Type of the course: required (elective) Credits: 8 ECTS
Course objectives:
The lecture material and exercises are carefully selected in order to familiarize the students with the elements of the irrigation regime of the main crops. The lecture course is arranged in a certain sequence, so as to make a smooth transition of linking the accumulated knowledge. Lectures and exercises are designed to provide students with knowledge of the types of irrigation regime, the crops needs of water. Knowledge about how to determine irrigation rates and calculate the required water masses for irrigate of certain crop rotation. The students get to know with the basic methods and techniques of irrigation. It will be discus the main components of drip and sprinkler irrigation systems, their advantages and disadvantages. To study the reasons for moistening and swamping of agricultural lands facilities and equipment for their drainage.
Course description:
Students will be provided with information about the basic water-physical properties of soils, about the individual elements of the irrigation regime of crops (irrigation norms, total available water in soil and water consumption during their cultivation) in the lecture material and during the exercises. Students will be given the opportunity to become familiar with how to determine the individual income and outcome elements in soil water balance equation for the active soil layer. It will be studied the essence of evapotranspiration (ET), factors influencing its course and size, types and ways of their determination. In the lecture course students will get acquainted with the irrigation regime of the main crops, with the individual elements of the irrigation and drainage system (sewage and distribution network and its adjacent facilities, types of water catchments, water sources and basic hydrotechnical facilities), types of irrigation systems and irrigation techniques and drainage.
Lecturers:
Molecular methods in plant protection
Specialty “Plant protection“, Degree „Master of science“, I year, Type of the course: elective, Credits: 4,5 ECTS
Course objectives:
Introducing students to the basics of molecular biotechnology and some aspects of their specific application in relation to the resistance to the prevention of plant pathology.
Course content:
The content of the course includes an introduction to the nature of molecular biotechnology and the specific features of the information macromolecules used in them. The features of different DNA technologies – plasmid vectors, genomic library, PCR, RFLP, RAPD, etc. are considered. The course introduces students to the different vector systems for gene transfer, as well as the most up-to-date methods for changing the genome. The problems of gene transformation and expression of the genes introduced into the plants, immunodiagnostics, identification and isolation of genes encoding the synthesis of toxins used in biocontrol, identification and localization of genes for resistance to phytopathogens and pests, as well as biotechnological control are treated. methods. Modern scientific achievements and research in this field have been used in the development of the lecture material.
Lecturers:
Non-insect Pests
Specialty “Plant protection“, Degree „Bachelor“, III, Type of the course: required Credits: 6.5 ECTS
Course objectives:
The purpose of this course in the Non-insect Pests course is to introduce students to the non-insect pests groups that are harmful to crops – nematodes, mites, rodents, snails, birds.
Course description:
The discipline “Non-insect pests” includes lectures and laboratory classes. The course aims to introduce students to the main groups of non-insect pests that are harmful to crops. The peculiarities of their structure, ways of development and reproduction, their systematic position and classification, as well as methods and means for their control will be considered. Laboratory classes will familiarize students with the more important morphological features of representatives from the main groups of non-insect pests required to identify them, following the sequence of the lecture course.
Lecturers:
Pests of cultivated plants
Specialty “Agronomy“ , Degree“ Bachelor“, course III, Type of the course: required, Credits:7,0 ECTS
Purpose and objectives of the course:
The main objective of the lecture course on the subject ” Pests of cultivated plants ” is to familiarize students with the biological characteristics, distribution, forecasting the emergence of economically dangerous pests on agricultural crops.
Course content:
The lecture material focuses on the systematics and taxonomic position, anatomy, physiology, biology, ecology and means of control against enemies. It also presents the economically important species of the basic agricultural crops.Laboratory exercises introduce students to the morphological features of the various stages of economically important pests.
Lecturers:
Pests on stored products
Specialty “Plant protection“ Degree “ Master of science“, course I, Type of the course: required, Credits:5,0 ECTS
Purpose and objectives of the course:
The purpose of the discipline “Pests on stored products” is to acquaint students with the economically important pests (pests and diseases) of stored products and materials. The course will look at their bioecological and morphological features, damage picture and species control measures.
Course content:
The course is divided into entomological and phytopathological part. The entomological section will present a brief description of the pests and mites inhabiting the stored products, as well as their behavior, damage, distribution and migration in the cereal mass. The ecological features of economically important species of pests in the stored products and materials of the Arachnida class, Acari subclass, Thysanura class, Psocoptera class, orthoptera class, Blattodea class, cockroaches class will be examined in detail. and wing Lepidoptera. Students will be introduced to the principles of integrated complex control with warehouse pests – physical, chemical and biological methods. In the phytopathological part will be presented a large number of microorganisms, both saprophytic and pathogenic species on the stored plant products, which have reduced metabolic activity. Pathogens are capable of causing destructive changes to stored products or their intoxication as a result of toxic metabolites released during their vital activity.
Lecturers:
Phytopathology
Specialty „Agronomy“, Degree „Bachelor“, III, Type of the course: required Credits: 8 ECTS
Course objectives:
The purpose of the course is to familiarize students with the causes of the occurrence, development and spread of phenomena known as diseases of cultivated plants. The course objectives include theoretical and practical training on the causes of plant diseases, their identification, their main characteristics, the stages of the pathogenic process, the effect on the quantity and quality of production, as well as control measures.
Course description:
During the course students will be introduced to the main points of the establishment and development of the pathological infection process in plants, the discipline is conditionally divided into two main parts – general and special phytopathology. It Introduce fundamental questions related to the development of phytopathology. The general part will present the basic concepts in phytopathology, origin and science, types of disease classifications, main taxon’s of phytopathogens and their biology, methods for determining disease losses, the pathogen-host relationship – environmental factors, major areas and methods of control. The special section deals with the symptoms of diseases of the basic agricultural crops, the biological peculiarities of their causes and the control mechanisms. During the laboratory exercises students are introduced to the infection stages, attention is paid to the characteristic details of the infection and for the different symptoms of the disease in a crop and its methods of diagnosis.
Teaching staff:
Lectures: Assoc. Prof Slavcho Slavov
Exercises/seminars: Ch. Assist Prof Zhelyu Avramov
Lecturers:
Phytosanitary control
Specialty „Plant protection“, Degree “ Master of science“, I year. Type of the course: required Credits: 5 ECTS
Course objectives:
The aim of the course is to provide students with information about plant health principles and practice for protectio the territory of Europe from the introduction and spread of quarantinе pests.
Course description:
The lectures are divided into 3 modules.
1. Organization of phytosanitary control. The students become familiar in detail with the regulations and organization of phytosanitary control in Europe and Bulgaria, as well as with the organization of work of the BFSA regarding phytosanitary control.
2. Bioecological features of quarantine organisms. Students become familiar with the bioecological features of quarantine pests and pathways of their introduction.
3. Management of quarantine pests. Students become familiar with quarantine species management approaches.
In module 4 Risk Analysis and Phytosanitary Expertise in the form of laboratory exercises, students gain skills to perform phytosanitary risk analysis and phytosanitary inspection of plants and plant products.
Lecturers:
Plant biotechnology
Specialty “Plant protection“, Degree „Bachelor“I course . Type of the course: required Credits:5 ECTS
Course objectives:
Introducing students to the terms and methods of biotechnology and plant biotechnology, genetic and cellular engineering, plasmid characterization and their classification, vectors, methods of isolation of plasmid DNA, enzymes restriction, construction of transgenic plants, tissue cultures and various methods of cultivation of pathogenic plants.
Course description:
Modern applications of plant biotechnology that have agricultural and environmental implications include: tissue cultures and micropropagation, plant disease diagnostics, genetic engineering. The Plant Biotechnology course for the Bachelor’s Degree in Plant Protection, Bachelor’s Degree, consists of five sections: fundamental and applied biotechnology, cell and molecular biology, tissue and cell cultures, genetic engineering and recombinant DNA technology. The lectures are oriented towards the creation of basic knowledge of the students in the Bachelor’s course in the field of plant technologies in the field of nanotechnologies and their application in the modern agricultural economy. Students gain knowledge about the control and spread of GMOs in the environment, about the benefits and harms of using GMOs, bioethical and biosafety aspects of the issues under consideration. The practical preparation of the students gives them an idea of the methods of obtaining transgenic plants and tissue cultures, the modern molecular genetic methods used for the analysis, evaluation and control of GMOs – real-time PCR /. In the practical training modern scientific equipment is used.
Lecturers:
Practicum of Acarology and Nematology
Specialty “Plant protection“, Degree “Master of science“, I, Type of the course: elective Credits: 4.0 ECTS
Course objectives:
To deepen students’ knowledge of mites and nematodes as major groups of non-insect pests on crops, and to develop practical skills in making expert decisions.
Course description:
The individual groups of pests (mites and nematodes) are regarded as biotic stressors that affect the production of agricultural produce.
Students become familiar with the methods for collecting, extracting and identifying economically important pests; learn the methodology of taking representative soil and plant samples and their treatment. Particular attention is paid to identifying damage to cultivated plants and identifying damage.
The knowledge gained will contribute to improving the management of pests and diseases, especially when nematological expertise is necessary.
Lecturers:
Practicum of Entomology
Specialty “Plant protection“ Degree “ Master of science“, course I, Type of the course: elective, Credits:4,0 ECTS
Purpose and objectives of the course:
The Practicum of Entomology aims to familiarize students with the various methods used for entomological research and alternative approaches to determine economically important representatives of the Insecta class.
Course content:
The Practicum of Entomology will familiarize students with the basic methods for collecting, processing, and preparing collections from Insecta class representatives used in entomological research. The course will identify economically important representatives of the Coleoptera, Lepidoptera, Hemiptera, Diptera, and Thysanoptera classes not covered in Bachelor of Entomology courses using the Genital Capsule of Male Individuals and the Preparation of Microscopic Preparations in Transcendental Species , Aphidinea, and Thysanoptera. A field activity for monitoring and collecting insects is envisaged. The training course ends with the preparation of individual entomological gatherings.
Lecturers:
Practicum of Phytopathology
Specialty “Plant protection“ Degree “ Master of science“, course I, Type of the course: elective, Credits:4,0 ECTS
The course “Phytopathology Practicum (Bacteria, Mushrooms, Viruses)” is intended for students of the Master’s Degree Program in Plant Protection Department. The workshop examines the main phytopathogens of agricultural plants – bacteria, fungi and viruses, methods for their isolation, cultivation and identification by morphological characteristics. Students get acquainted with different techniques of plant inoculation, methods of reporting the degree of attack, become familiar with the taxonomic determination of different types of phytopathogens using a microscopic techniques and keys. A practical exercise is planned to identify plant diseases through interactive programs created for the purpose by APS (American Society of Phytopathologists) and a fieldwork to monitor and collect disease patterns. The training course ends with the preparation of a small collection of herbarius diseased plants.
Lecturers:
Private animal husbandry
Lecturers:
Sericulture
Specialty „Agronomy, Degree („Bachelor“), (full-time / part-time – III course) Type of the course: elective Credits:4,5 ECTS
Course objectives:
The course aims to provide in-depth theoretical knowledge in the field of cultivation of mulberry silkworm. To acquaint students with the basic theoretical and practical directions of coccyx insects. The course deals with the biological features, breeding, and breeding of blueberry butterfly (Bombyx mori L.) Particular attention is paid to the specific environmental conditions for growing larvae and creating mulberry plantations in the conditions of the market economy in our country.
Course description:
The discipline of mulberry silkworm includes the following main sections:
Climatic zones of distribution of mulberry silk butterfly. Systematic classification and general characteristics.
Ontogenesis of mulberry silk butterfly. Reproduction. Breeding – Methods.
Ecological parameters of environmental conditions for the cultivation of mulberry silk butterfly – characteristic of biotic and abiotic environmental factors. Batch production.
Diseases, poisonings, prophylaxis for mulberry silk butterfly.
Methods and technologies for egg incubation and silkworm rearing.
Technology for primary processing of cocoons
Main sources for beetle breeding – Bilberry, oak, castor and other plant species.
Lecturers:
Soil health
Specialty “Plant protection“, Degree (“ Master of science“), ( II) Type of the course: (elective) Credits: 4 ECTS
Course objectives:
The main objective of the Soil Health course is to train staff with knowledge of the soil such as a living ecosystem and the ability to reduce and eliminate the effects of external pollutants, incl. mineral fertilizers, pesticides and POPs.
The objectives of the course are (1) to familiarize students with the physical, chemical and biological indicators used worldwide and in Bulgaria to evaluate soil functions) and (2) to acquire students’ skills in implementing soil health measures in conditions of intensive use; maintaining them in good agricultural and environmental condition.
Course description:
The training course is divided into 3 modules – 1. European and national legislation in the field of good agricultural and environmental practices concerning soil. Basic soil functions and indicators for their evaluation. 2. Hereditary and dynamic properties of soils and their change in conditions of intensive fertilization and use of preparations for P3; National standards for maintaining soil good.
Lecturers:
Sustainable use of pesticides
Specialty “Plant protection“, “Master of science“, I, Type of the course: required Credits: 5.0 ECTS
Course objectives:
Students gain knowledge of methods for collecting, summarizing and analyzing information on pesticide use.
Course description:
Over the last 20 years, European agricultural policy has been aimed at reducing pesticide use and the safety of agricultural consumers.
The course introduces students to measures to achieve sustainable use of pesticides in the coming years. In the practical part, particular attention is paid to systems for collecting the necessary data on pesticide use and risk reduction.
The knowledge gained will help to guarantee both the production of quality agricultural produce and to ensure a high level of health protection for pesticide workers from their harmful effects.
Lecturers:
Tissue cultures, genetic engineering and molecular markers
Specialty: “Selection and seed production of crop plants” , Degree“ Master of science“, I year, Type of the course: required , Credits: 6 ECTS
Course objectives:
The course aims to build on the knowledge of the students studying Genetics and to learn the basics of molecular manipulation of DNA and the ways of creating plants with combinations of qualities that are not observed in nature.
Course description:
The application of vector systems for gene cloning, strategies for gene transfer, problems of gene transformation and expression of genes introduced into plants will be discussed. Attention is also paid to somatic hybridization as a basis for the production of hybrid plants, the ways of gene transfer, the importance and achievements of genetic engineering in modern plant breeding and seed production. The study includes the structure and functions of the genetic apparatus at the biochemical and molecular level, methods for studying the biochemical polymorphism of DNA and proteins. Attention is paid to the theoretical and practical bases of biochemical and molecular genetic markers and their application in the accelerated selection of cultivated plants, as well as the use of modern DNA technologies for the assessment and conservation of biodiversity in plant populations. Acquaintance with molecular genetic and computer techniques for the study of protein and DNA polymorphism, bioinformatic analysis of protein molecules.
