Functional Interaction between Insects, Microbes and Plants
Welcome to the research initiative FI2MP
Plants, insects and microbes interact and communicate with each other. The functional consequences are still unclear, but several scientific studies indicate that plants select their microbial partners for specific purposes by sending signals in form of peptide or volatile compounds which also affect interactions with insects. Combining our expertise on this fascinating research field, we initiated FI2MP to offer interdisciplinary Bachelor and Master theses to study the molecular background of these interactions as well as translational aspects for medical and ecological sciences.
NEWS
We offer exciting BACHELOR and MASTER theses within the FI2MP consortium:
• Interdisciplinary theses ranging from small molecules to organisms and communities.
• A stimulating research environment and well-equipped labs with up-to-date techniques
• An intensive supervision and education by at least two PIs
• Research covers different biological levels and disciplines; from molecular biochemistry and biophysics over cell biology to entire organisms and ecosystems.
Student projects include:
Bacteria, Volatiles and Plant Reproduction: Do bacteria and volatiles promote pollen germination and tube growth during pollination?
Structuring Plant-Associated Microbial Communities: Can we identify new anti-microbial compounds used to repel microbes?
Plant-Bacteria-Insect-Interactions: What are the mechanisms, causes and consequences of inter-kingdom communication?
Bacteria, Volatiles and Plant Defence: What is the role of plant associated microbial communities in plant defence?
