Successful Lecture by Anna Matuszyńska on Computational Modeling of Phototrophs
Golm, Germany [13.03.2025] Anna Matuszyńska of RWTH Aachen University presented a compelling lecture on computational modeling of phototrophs at Potsdam University, as part of the CRC 1644 "Phenotypic Plasticity" seminar series, which investigates how plants adapt to environmental changes at the genetic and molecular level. The computational modeling of photosynthetic organisms, as presented by Dr. Matuszyńska, provides a valuable tool for understanding the complex mechanisms of adaption that are the focus of the CRC 1644.
Anna Matuszyńska delivered "Computational Modeling of Phototrophs: from Single Cell Dynamics to Microbial Markets" to an engaged audience. Her presentation offered key insights into photosynthesis and the application of computational models to understand its regulatory processes. Matuszyńska shared recent advancements in simulating the dynamics of photosynthesis in cyanobacteria, efforts to incorporate temperature effects into models of photosynthetic processes, and initiatives to facilitate modular mechanistic modeling using Python. The lecture was well-received and sparked much discussion.
Little Researchers, Big Discoveries: Mushroom Workshop at AWO Kita Ki.Wis Entdeckergarten
Monheim am Rhein, [March 10, 2025] The children of the AWO Kita Ki.Wis Entdeckergarten in Monheim am Rhein recently experienced an exciting adventure into the world of mushrooms. Dr. Marius Terfrüchte, a dedicated MibiNet mentor and kindergarten father, conducted the workshop in cooperation with the Institute of Microbiology and the SFB1535 MibiNet "Microbial Networking" of Heinrich Heine University.
Together, the little researchers went on a journey of discovery and learned where fungi grow, what different types exist, and how fungi can even contribute to health. With great interest, the children examined the fungi closely – some even under a magnifying glass! As a grand finale, they were allowed to try various mushrooms, experiencing the diversity of these fascinating organisms through taste.
"The children were thrilled by the variety of fungi and explored and tasted everything with great interest," said Dr. Marius Terfrüchte. "It is my concern to bring children closer to nature's wonders and awaken their interest in scientific topics."
The cooperation with the Institute of Microbiology and MibiNet of HHU made it possible to design the workshop with scientific expertise and give the children a well-founded insight into the world of fungi.
"We are very pleased about the successful cooperation and the great interest of the children in this important topic," said Dr. Kerstin Schipper, head of the Biotechnology working group at the Institute of Microbiology. "Promoting scientific interest in children is a key concern for us."
The workshop was a complete success and showed how exciting and educational nature exploration can be. A heartfelt thank you goes to Dr. Marius Terfrüchte for his dedication and the successful execution of the workshop.