This department's research activities are focused on revealing the signalling chains between microorganisms (i.e. bacteria, fungi) and plant roots on the genomic, protein biochemical, and metabolic level. The significance of this signalling in the establishment of interactive mechanisms between roots of crop plants and root associated or endophytic microorganisms is of major interest. The aim is to exploit specific microbe-plant interactions and the involved signalling compounds in order to achieve improved nutrient supply and health in plants, along with an increased pollutant metabolism or breakdown. The research interests are represented by the two working groups: