Research of the Laboratory of Microbiology
The Laboratory of Microbiology is engaged in research on the biotransformations and interactions of microorganisms and the control thereof.
Its general scientific objectives include:
- to discover fundamental aspects of selected microbe-based, model systems at ecological, cellular and molecular levels
- to understand the molecular basis of key processes in bacteria, archaea and their viruses
- to apply the obtained insights to develop and optimise processes related to improving human quality of life
Research groups
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Bacterial Genetics
Off the beaten track: “In our lab we are taking Bacterial Genetics research off the beaten track, in search for new fundamental insights and occasionally new applications; I feel privileged to participate in this exciting journey of surprise and discovery.”
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Microbial Evolution
Within the working group of Microbial Evolution (MicEvo) we focus on exploring and characterizing the microbial diversity that exists on our planet. To do this, we employ a variety of approaches, including cultivation-independent methods (e.g. metagenomics, comparative genomics, phylogenomics), but also novel cultivation-dependent methods (e.g. high-throughput cultivation and ecophysiology techniques).
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Microbial Physiology
“Strict anaerobes are key to the natural geochemical cycles of carbon, nitrogen and sulphur. Exploiting the processes catalysed by these anaerobes, for example in the production of chemicals and fuels from waste streams, is our main research driver.”
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Molecular Ecology
Research and education within the Microbial Ecology Group aims to understand and explore the functioning of microorganisms in natural and man-made ecosystems, including interdependencies with their living and non-living environments.