Bacterial Cell-Cell Interactions and Metabolism

In our research we investigate selected aspects of bacterial ecology and physiology with the goal of establishing novel biotechnological applications. Our research is focussed on two aspects of bacterial ecophysiology: bacterial metabolism and bacterial cell-cell interactions. Regarding metabolism, we investigate novel metabolic pathways for the transformation of natural and synthetic compounds. Regarding cell-cell interactions, we investigate bacterial cell-aggregation and biofilm formation as well as chemical interactions of bacteria (chemical communication, antibiosis). We want to transfer ecophysiological knowledge to biotechnology for improving bacterial biocatalysis and biodegradation processes as well as for finding novel compounds that influence bacterial growth and metabolism. In addition, we are also addressing socio-economical aspects of biotechnology and bioeconomy in an interdisciplinary cooperation.