We seek answers to fundamental zoological questions, such as determinants of male (in)fertility, the role of mitochondria in metabolism, phenotype and evolutionary change. We also study the genetics and material properties of the insect skin.

Research Areas

• In Sperm Biology we use experimental evolution and other experimental approaches to understand the significance of environmental (aka lifestyle) effects on sperm function, including infections, diet or atmospheric variation. This includes possible epigenetic alterations, i.e. effects of sperm damage on the offspring. Of central importance are oxygen radicals and sperm metabolism, which we measure using laser-induced fluorescence microscopy and microfluometry.
• In Evolutionary Solutions to Diseases we focus on mitochondria, our cells’ powerhouses. The interaction of mitochondrial DNA with chromosomal DNA has substantial implications for the so-called mitochondrial replacement therapy (three-parent-baby technology). We aim to combine genetic methods with experimental evolution in order to identify suitable mito-nuclear interactions.
• Our third research area, related to Bioprospecting, examines natural solutions to all kinds of technical problems. We focus on areas where evolution is particularly rapid: evolutionary conflicts. Currently, we mainly concentrate on the Ecology and Molecular Biology of the Insect Cuticle.
• Finally, in Cultural Zoology we use zoological studies, to inform aspects of the human society, and use cultural aspects to reveal biological particularities.