In the field of Plant Adaptation, researchers investigate how plants perceive environmental stress and the molecular mechanisms underlying their adaptation. Particular emphasis is placed on temperature stress and the plants’ ability to “remember” heat stress. The aim is to establish the scientific basis for the development of climate-resistant crops and thus contribute to mitigating the negative effects of climate change in horticulture.
The Biotic Interactions area focuses on plant defence mechanisms against microbial pathogens and herbivorous insects, as well as the role of the soil, plant, and insect microbiomes. Findings are applied to the development of sustainable cropping systems that reduce pesticide and nutrient inputs while conserving and promoting biodiversity.
Research on the sustainable production of vegetables and other plant-based foods is central to the subject area of Plant Quality and Food Security. This work also generates knowledge for healthy and sufficient human nutrition. Key focuses include the utilisation of plant biodiversity, targeted modulation of bioactive compounds, closing nutrient cycles, and promoting sustainable diets.
The Horticultural Systems of the Future area develops innovative management strategies for resource-efficient production both in open fields and controlled environments, including the closure of nutrient cycles. Using sensors and models, water, nutrient, and energy use are optimised and adapted to climate change. This results in model-based decision-support tools for horticultural production that integrate ecological and economic sustainability.
A central Science Support Platform facilitates the Institute’s research, providing high-throughput methods and data analysis across proteomics, metabolomics, mass spectrometry, bioinformatics, and data management. It also promotes the training of early-career researchers and cross-institute collaboration.
