Microorganisms communicate with each other and with other organisms via small molecules. The complex interactions of microorganisms are intensively studied at the Friedrich Schiller University and extra-university research institutes in Jena.

Balance of the Microverse is a proposed research cluster that seeks to understand the dynamic balance of microbial communities from the molecular to the ecosystem level. By studying microbial consortia from different habitats – for instance, microorganisms in aquatic environments or human microbiomes – we aim to identify common and distinct patterns that determine balance of microbial consortia. How is microbial balance defined? Which factors disturb the equilibrium and how do systems regain balance?

With a holistic understanding of the functional interactions of microbial consortia, our vision is to develop technologies to create beneficial impact.

Balance of the Microverse focuses on three research areas:
Microverse of the Environment
Microverse of the Host
Data Synopsis and the Microverse Imaging Center