How can we combat life-threatening bacteria? Will “living” implants be able to replace damaged blood vessels in future? The answers can be found in the life sciences, which explore fundamental questions of life, often in the areas of health and biodiversity. Not only humans but also animals and plants are examined – from their tiniest constituent parts to the whole organisms and their interactions. Such interdisciplinary research also requires sophisticated technology, which is why research institutions team up and work together. Numerous scientists in Germany are working on some fascinating topics in the life sciences. In this edition, we present a number of their projects. You can also read why a materials scientist from the UK conducts her research in Germany, learn about current funding programmes and discover our number of the month.
IN FOCUS: Life sciences
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Life – a broad-ranging field of research
Few things are as complex as the human organism. Animals and plants are also far from sufficiently researched – both in terms of their tiniest constituent parts and the interplay between larger systems. Numerous scientists in Germany are searching for answers to the major questions of life in a joint field of research: the life sciences.
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Bacteria killers from the nano factory
Nobody wants to become infected with a dangerous pathogen. Two scientists from Konstanz are therefore developing a tiny weapon that is designed to protect surfaces – of hospital instruments for example – against germs.
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Research opportunities for international materials scientists
At Forschungszentrum Jülich, Katherine MacArthur from the UK is studying nanoparticles that are used in fuel cells. She explains what is special about her workplace and what prompted her to move to Germany.
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200 years of the bicycle
Two wheels, a saddle, handlebars and pedals – it all sounds straightforward enough, but actually this is a combination that took quite some time to perfect. Nowadays it is hard to imagine life in Germany without bicycles, the world’s most widespread means of transport. We take a look at the history of this German invention and at current bike research.
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