Crop Functional Genomics
The division of Crop Functional Genomics is part of the Institute of Plant Sciences and Resource Conservation (INRES).
Our research focus is the genetic and genomic dissection of maize and barley root development. To this end, we clone and characterize genes controlling root architecture and we investigate the molecular mechanisms of heterosis manifestation. Moreover, we are interested in how root systems react to abiotic stress such as drought or cold and how they interact with the rhizosphere.
Our 2026 maize seeds are in the ground!
We were able to plant our maize field at the University of Bonn's experimental station on April 29, 2026. Thanks to all who helped!
Congratulations to Liuyang Chu for successfully passing her PhD-defense!
Liuyang worked on two projects related to boron biology in plants. She characterized the putative boron deficiency mimic phenylboronic acid during maize primary root development. In addition, she identified a novel regulator of boron homeostasis in maize.
68th Maize Genetics Meeting in Cologne Successfully Concluded!
The 68th Maize Genetics Conference took place in Cologne from February 25 to March 1, 2026.
Congratulations to Dr. Michaela Matthes
Congratulations to Michaela Matthes for sucessfully completing her habilitation with her inaugural lecture.
Contact
Head
Prof. Dr. Frank Hochholdinger
Address
Room 0.008
Römerstr. 164
D-53117 Bonn
Office
Christine Jessen and Ellen Kreitz
Address
Room 0.007
Römerstr. 164
D-53117 Bonn