This service provides advanced soil and water microbiome characterisation to support EIC Pathfinder, EIC Transition and EIC Accelerator projects working in agriculture, environmental technologies, bio-based solutions and aquaculture. Using state-of-the-art deep sequencing, EIC awardees receive high-resolution profiling of soil microbial communities and aquaculture water microbiomes, enabling the identification of functional species, detection of pathogens, and assessment of ecosystem health. 

In parallel, the service offers comprehensive physical and chemical soil analysis, including texture classification, pH, electrical conductivity, organic matter, nutrient composition (N, P, K), cation-exchange capacity, moisture content, bulk density and structure. Combined interpretation of microbial and physicochemical data provides an integrated understanding of soil performance, crop suitability, climate resilience and environmental impact. To maximise value for research and innovation teams, benefi ciaries receive capacity-building and tailored support to interpret the results. Experts guide users through data reports, highlight actionable insights for technology development, and advise on experimental design, optimisation strategies and potential regulatory considerations. 

The service strengthens scientific evidence for early-stage technologies, supports validation in real environments, and helps de-risk innovations in sustainable agriculture, biotechnology and aquaculture. Designed to be flexible and scalable, it can be used as a standalone analytical package or embedded within broader EIC technical development activities. 

Expected outcomes: Clear microbiome and soil–water quality profiles to validate technological approaches; Enhanced ability to design, test and scale biotechnological or agrifood solutions; Improved risk assessment regarding soil degradation, nutrient imbalance or aquaculture health; Strengthened evidence base for fundraising, regulatory pathways or pilot deployment.