I lead a research group at the Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology of Prokaryotes. We engineer anaerobic gas convertig (H₂ + CO₂ and CO) acetogens such as Actobacterium woodii, CLostridium Ijungdahlii and Eubacterium callanderii. We investigate anaerobic synthetic co-cultures and run sequential C1-fermentation. Last but not least, we also isolate and study bacteria from anaerobic environments. 

https://www.uni-ulm.de/nawi/bio2/research/pd-dr-frank-bengelsdorf/

Our research lies at the intersection of bacterial physiology and molecular biology. One focus is on toxin-antitoxin systems, particularly the functionality and physiological impact of small membrane toxins from various bacterial hosts. We also study antibiotic tolerance and the dissemination of antibiotic resistance genes within ecological systems, with the aim of dismantling antibiotic resilience strategies. Additionally, we are interested in RNA biology and are studying synthetic small RNAs as regulatory tools for basic and applied research in various bacterial species.

https://www.uni-ulm.de/nawi/bio2/research/prof-dr-bork-berghoff/

The research group Fändrich investigates the misfolding of proteins into amyloid fibrils. This process underlies the development of amyloid diseases, such as systemic amyloidosis, but it may also be used to manufacture novel kinds of biomaterials. The used methods range from structural biology and in particular cryo electron microscopy to cell biological analyses or work with the patient tissue. 

https://www.uni-ulm.de/nawi/institute-of-protein-biochemistry/

Many mammals show extreme morphological and physiological adaptions to overcome seasonal energy shortages. Our group investigates how exogenous and endogenous factors are integrated in the brain to control seasonal energy-saving strategies. Djungarian hamsters serve as a model to study the annual regulation of body weight and metabolism.

https://www.uni-ulm.de/nawi/cme/forschung/ag-herwig/

The Lee lab studies glucocorticoid receptor signalling in skeletal stem and progenitor cells, which help maintain and repair bone. We focus on the skeletal stem cell niche microenvironment and how it changes during normal bone homeostasis, fracure healing and bone tumors. Using in vivo models and alternative in vitro callus models, we aim to understand the cellular and molecular mechanisms that regulate bone regeneration and identify targets to improve bone health and fracture healing.

https://www.uni-ulm.de/nawi/cme/forschung/ag-lee/

We are interested in the RNA metabolism of halophilic archaea. Currently we are working on the following projects using the halophilic archaea Haloferax volcanii, Natrialba magadii, Haloterrigena turkmenica and Halorubrum lacusprofundi: CRISPR-Cas functions beyond defence (SPP2141), small proteins, the prokaryotic immune system CRISPR-Cas (FOR1680).

https://www.uni-ulm.de/nawi/bio2/

Our research focuses on the regulation of eukaryotic gene expression by RNA-binding proteins (RBPs). We combine X-ray crystallography, biophysical techniques, biochemistry, and 2D and 3D (stem-) cell models to uncover the molecular mechanisms governing RBP function. We are particularly interested in neurological diseases that arise from RBP dysregulation, with a special focus on PURA syndrome, a heritable neurodevelopmental disorder. To advance this work, we have established a biobank and work closely with affected families and patient organizations.

https://www.uni-ulm.de/nawi/institute-of-pharmaceutical-biotechnology/

The Rosenau Group develops biotechnological approaches at the interface of microbiology, molecular biology, biomaterials and sensor technology. A major focus is the development of aptamers and innovative biosensors for the highly specific detection of microorganisms, biomarkers and other biological targets. Further research areas include antimicrobial peptides, functional biomaterials and the analysis and targeted modulation of microbial communities, with a particular focus on diagnostic and medial applications. 

https://www.uni-ulm.de/nawi/institute-of-pharmaceutical-biotechnology/institute/rosenau-group/

We investigate how human-driven environmental change, pollution, and climate change affect biodiversity, wildlife health, and zoonotic diseases through an interdisciplinary approach within the One Health framework. Our research focuses on animal communities, wildlife pathogens, immune genetics, and host-associated microbiomes (e.g., gut, skin), integrating genomic, ecological, and disease data to elucidate host–pathogen interactions, resilience, and the ecological drivers of infections. In addition, we examine how fertilization practices influence the emergence and spread of antimicrobial resistance across the trophic chain. 

https://www.uni-ulm.de/nawi/trophichealth-bmftr-funded-project/

Plants defend themselves against pathogens through an intricate immune system. For example, they employ plasma membrane receptors to detect molecules derived from pathogens. This allows them to recognize invaders to activate a counter response. We study how plant cell surface-mediated immunity is regulated by endogenous peptides (produced by the plant itself). These peptides are also involved in growth-related processes. We are interested to understand how these peptides coordinate stress responses with other plant physiological needs to safeguard plant health. 

https://www.uni-ulm.de/nawi/institut-fuer-botanik/prof-dr-martin-stegmann/research/

The lab investigates endocrine control of immune and stromal cell interactions in chronic inflammation, osteoporosis and insulin resistance. The glucocorticoid receptor regulates inflammation through transcriptional and non-genomic effects, modulating immune metabolism and oncogenic signalling. The aim is to fine-tune the resolution of inflammation and promote tissue repair.

https://www.uni-ulm.de/nawi/cme/forschung/ag-tuckermann/

The group investigates hormonally controlled mechanisms that regulate acute and chronic inflammation, developing therapeutic strategies to modulate the balance between pro- and anti-inflammatory pathways. Current projects address long-term glucocorticoid effects, peripheral nerve injuries, combined adrenal hormone actions, and mechanostimulation of immune cells.

https://www.uni-ulm.de/nawi/cme/forschung/ag-vettorazzi/

The research group studies molecular mechanisms of iron homeostasis and their link to metabolic diseases. Iron deficiency and overload – including hereditary haemochromatosis – affect billions worldwide. The goal is to understand the hepcidin-ferroportin axis and iron-steroid hormone interactions to develop novel therapeutic strategies.

https://www.uni-ulm.de/nawi/cme/forschung/ag-vujic-spasic/