We are interested in the form-structure-function relationships in plants and animals. Our fundamental organismal research focuses on the qualitative and quantitative biomechanical and functional-morphological investigation of diverse biological processes and phenomena like movement, pollination, dispersal, prey capture and adhesion. In application-oriented approaches, we abstract functional principles for biomimetic transfer into technical structures and materials. Our work is highly interdisciplinary and we cooperate with various other disciplines and the industry.

Research example: The underwater snap-trap of the carnivorous waterwheel plant (Aldrovanda vesiculosa) snaps shut within a fraction of a second to capture small prey animals, like water fleas. The trap movement principle was abstracted and implemented into a paper-based materials system for soft robotics.

We also enjoy communicating science and use our botanical garden with its excellent collections as a “living showcase” both in university teaching and in offers for the general public. For example, take a look at our “Green Classroom”, an extracurricular learning space with a wide range of activities to spark enthusiasm for the living world and impart sustainable knowledge.

Interested? Contact us if you would like to know more or work with us!