The Cereal Research Centre deals with genetics, genetic improvement, breeding and agronomy of cereals for human and animal consumption, with particular attention to the aspects related to the resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses, the sustainability of cultivation and the quality of products in relation to the cereal chain, differentiation of selections depending on the needs of diffe rent traditional and industrial uses,care and maintenance of collections of cereal varieties suitable for the cultivation in the Mediterranean area for the preservation and enhancement of biodiversity.