Cluster of Excellence “Balance of the Microverse”
Microorganisms – the smallest living organisms – are crucial to sustain life on Earth. The functioning of all ecosystems depends on finely balanced interactions among microorganisms. The balance is constantly challenged by human interference and environmental disturbances, leading to diseases, severe crop losses and ecosystem degradation.
The Microverse Cluster explores the intricate web of microbial interactions, uniquely transferring ecological concepts to medicine with the goal of targeted interventions.
Successful Premiere: First Joint Symposium at the Berlin Futurium
“It’s fantastic that these clusters are now coming together on this topic and facilitating such exchanges. […] Basic research generates new knowledge, which is the foundation for everything else. I’m impressed by how complementary these consortia are and how their collaboration adds a much-needed dimension across individual groups.” (Veronika von Messling, Federal Ministry of Education and Research)
From October 1 to 2, 2024, the Clusters of Excellence "Balance of the Microverse" (Jena), "CMFI" (Tübingen), and "RESIST" (Hannover) hosted the symposium "Microbes – Connecting Environment and Health" at the Berlin Futurium. The event brought together researchers and professionals to discuss antimicrobial resistance, microbial resilience, infection susceptibility, and the role of the microbiome in health.