A gap and synergy analysis of the European research infrastructure (RI) ecosystem: advancing the novel GRACE-RI dedicated to plant genetic resources

Background: Plant genetic resources (PGRs) are crucial for sustainable agriculture and food security, but the roadmap of the European Strategy Forum on Research Infrastructures (ESFRI) lacks a dedicated research infrastructure (RI) for their systematic cataloguing, safeguarding and improvement. To fill this gap, we propose a new RI concept specifically for PGRs in Europe. Scope: The proposed RI, called ‘Plant Genetic Resources Community for Europe' (GRACE), is aimed to support current and future research projects on PGRs, enhance collaboration across European countries, unlock the adaptive potential of crop biodiversity preserved in PGR collections, and strengthen the current and future sustainability of the food chain in Europe. As part of the preparatory project ‘Promoting a Plant Genetic Resource Community for Europe' (PRO-GRACE), we analysed the current landscape of European RIs supporting PGR-related research in complementary fields regarding research aims, research products and features/services. Conclusions: Through a robust quantitative approach, we have identified gaps and potential synergies among six RIs from the Health and Food and Environment domains of the ESFRI roadmap. These findings were discussed in the context of European PGR research priorities and current societal needs, and the implementation of GRACE was proposed as a strategic response to these challenges.