Research Fields
Research at the Biozentrum is dedicated to the central question of how molecules and cells create life. We study the physical and biochemical mechanisms of cells and explore the behaviors and dynamics of multicellular communities.
Research at the Biozentrum is characterized by interdisciplinary collaborations in the area of molecular and biomedical fundamental research. 31 international research teams investigate how molecules and cells create life – from the atom to the organism.
Accordingly, the questions are also diverse: How do proteins form complex machines? How is the genome folded and read? How are cells organized to transport molecules and transmit signals? How do cells become specialized or cancerous? How does the body defend itself against pathogens? How do animals move, sleep and form memories? How do organisms develop and age? What are the theories and computational models that explain biological processes? What might be new strategies to treat diseases such as muscular dystrophies, Alzheimer's or cancer?
These disciplines are not strictly separated from each other, but often overlap, thus leading to new questions and collaborations. This interdisciplinary spirit, combined with generous funding and excellent infrastructure, ensure research at the highest level.
Computational and Theoretical Biology Development and application of computational approaches to study complex biological systems |
Developmental, Regenerative and Stem Cell Biology Developmental biology, regenerative processes, and the role of stem cells |
Evolution and Ecology Origins of organisms and the influence of the environment |
Genetics and Genomics Study of genes and their functions |
Microbiology, Infection Biology and Immunology Investigation of microorganisms, infections, and immune responses |
Molecular and Cellular Biology Molecular aspects of cell structures and functions |
Molecular Medicine, Physiology, Metabolism and Aging Molecular processes in health and disease, metabolism, and aging |
Multicellular Dynamics Research on the dynamics of multicellular organisms and communities |
Neuroscience Structure and function of the nervous system |
Physics of Life Physical principles of biological processes |
Signaling and Gene Regulation Signal transduction and regulation of gene expression |
Structural Biology, Biochemistry and Biophysics Structure and function of molecules, molecular machines and organelles |
Systems and Synthetic Biology Quantitative and engineering approaches to study complex biological systems |