Research focus on biotic interactions
The goal of the newly established research cluster "Biotic Interactions" is to understand the evolutionary and ecological functioning of biotic interactions. We are particularly interested in the following topics:
- Mechanistic (genetic, chemical, organismic) functioning of the interactions that occur between different organisms
- Evolutionary origin of biotic interactions (e.g. co-evolution) including the consequences of biotic interaction on speciation and extinction processes
- Understanding the assembly rules of biotic interaction networks and predicting their shift under climate and global change
- Understanding biotic interactions in the context of (multiple) stressors (e.g. light, drought, heat)
Next to the research activities, the activities of the cluster are also represented in teaching, in particular in the M.Sc. programme "Ecology, Evolution & Conservation (external link, opens in a new window)".
The following research groups are associated with this cluster:
Prof. Dr. Florian Hartig
- Important information: We study the mechanisms and principles underlying the patterns of biodiversity in ecology, evolution and conservation, using computer simulations, statistical methods and more recently, algorithms from machine learning and artificial intelligence.
Further info of Prof. Dr. Florian Hartig
Prof. Dr. Aline Koch
- Important information: We study how regulatory non-coding and coding RNAs can be used as "sprayable RNAs" to improve the agricultural value of crops
Further info of Prof. Dr. Aline Koch
Dr. Christoph Kurze
- Important information: I am interested in understanding the intricate relationships between hosts and parasites. My research has led me to focus in particular on important questions about bee health.
Further info of Dr. Christoph Kurze
Prof. Dr. Christoph Oberprieler
- Important information: Plant Evolution and Systematics
We study evolutionary processes that shape plant diversity. Molecular techniques, phylogenetic methods, and population genetic tools are used to investigate particularly the effects of hybridization and polyploidization in plant evolution.
Further info of Prof. Dr. Christoph Oberprieler
PD Dr. Tamara Pokorny
- Important information: Variability and evolution of chemical signals
We investigate the causes and consequences of signal variability for communication in insects.
Further info of PD Dr. Tamara Pokorny
Prof. Dr. Christoph Reisch
- Important information: Molecular Ecology and Conservation Genetics
Genetic variation is essential for plant evolution and conservation. We analyse the mechanisms creating genetic variation and ask how much variation is needed for the longterm protection of endangered plant species
PD. Dr. Eva Schultner
- Important information: I want to understand how environment – and especially social environment – influences individual development and modulates evolution of complex traits.
Further info of PD. Dr. Eva Schultner
Prof. Dr. Erhard Strohm
- Important information: Evolutionary and chemical ecology of insects
We study behavioural, physiological and chemical adaptations of insects focussing on interactions of bees and wasps with brood parasites and symbionts.
Further info of Prof. Dr. Erhard Strohm
Prof. Dr. Lena Wilfert
- Important information: We study the evolution and ecology of host-parasite interactions in pollinators and other insects.
Further info of Prof. Dr. Lena Wilfert
