Molecular Mycology and Mycoparasitism

Our research focuses on microbial interactions, particularly those involving mycoparasitic fungi — fungi that parasitise other fungi, combatting them — a property that makes these organisms interesting for use as biofungicides. Specifically, we aim to elucidate the molecular details of the interaction partners by investigating the genes activated during the interaction, the signals exchanged and the recognition mechanisms (receptors and signal transduction pathways). This will provide detailed insights into the regulatory mechanisms involved and identify the intra- and extracellular factors essential for the mycoparasite to attack its host. We also focus on the production of secondary metabolites (i.e. potentially bioactive substances) by the mycoparasitic fungus and its interaction partners, as well as their role in the interaction.

We offer ongoing topics for bachelor's and master's theses.

This involves working on current research projects in the field of microbial interactions, focusing on mycoparasitic fungi, and learning and applying various methods. These range from cultivation techniques to genetic manipulation to investigate the function of individual genes or improve strain characteristics, for example.

Interested students are invited to contact the working group leader, Susanne Zeilinger (susanne.zeilinger@uibk.ac.at), or the working group members directly by email.

Currently advertised Bachelor- and Master thesis.