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Fluctuations by the Minute

A research team led by Victor Sourjik found large variations in individual cells' responses to environmental stimuli. Although they are invisible at population level, the fluctuations could have an impact on bacterial metabolism.

EU Horizon Grant for "Crop4 Clima”

The research program aims to develop canola and rapeseed that can capture more carbon dioxide from the air while requiring less water and fertilizer.

With formic acid towards CO₂ neutrality

A team including Dr. Maren Nattermann from the Department of Biochemistry and Synthetic Metabolism developed a way to use formic acid, which is non-toxic to most microbes, as an intermediate in the production of valuable materials from CO₂.

Small Molecules, Great Potential

Max Planck scientists Katharina Höfer and Gert Bange are involved in the Research Training Group "Microbial Nucleotide Metabolism (MiNu)", which focuses on the metabolism of nucleotides.

Regine Kahmann elected to the American Academy of Arts & Sciences

Nomination by the Academy honours outstanding achievement, innovation and leadership

Welcome to the
Max Planck Institute for Terrestrial Microbiology

The aim of our research is to understand the diversity and function of microorganisms. They are more numerous and diverse than all other living organisms – there is no place on earth they do not colonize. There are mainly three main reasons for their success: their immense metabolic capacities, a great ability to adapt to environmental changes, and a wide range of interactions with other organisms. Whether by their indispensable role in the global cycles of matter, the conversion of atmospheric greenhouse gases or their numerous interactions with humans, animals and plants - microorganisms decisively shape life on earth.

Like all of the over 80 Max Planck Institutes, we conduct basic research, true to Max Planck`s saying: "Insight must precede application." A fundamental understanding of processes and interrelationships is prerequisite for any medical or technological innovation. We use state-of-the-art technologies in combination with computer modeling and analysis as well as synthetic biology methods.