Fraunhofer Institute for Molecular Biology and Applied Ecology IME

The core competencies of Fraunhofer IME are structured in two divisions, "Molecular Biotechnology" and "Applied Ecology", on four locations. In Aachen and Münster, we establish demand-optimized plants, animal cells and microorganisms for various industrial applications. At the institute branch "Bioresources" in Giessen, which belongs to the "Molecular Biotechnology" division, a worldwide unique center for the exploitation of bioresources is being established. The division "Applied Ecology" in Schmallenberg concerns iteself with risk evalutation of synthetic and biogenic substances for both environment and consumers. 

We mourn the passing of Professor Dr. Fritz Kreuzaler, a pioneer in molecular plant science, plant synthetic biology and photosynthesis engineering. Fraunhofer IME has lost a dear friend, trusted scientific adviser and highly valued mentor. His ideas, wisdom and generosity will remain an enduring source of inspiration.

120 years ago, in 1906, unusually tall tobacco plants were described in Maryland, flowering only under short-day conditions and reaching remarkable height under long days. This cultivar — Maryland Mammoth — became foundational to our understanding of photoperiodism. Yet the molecular basis for its distinctive phenotype has remained elusive.
In our latest paper, we identify the causal genetic mechanism underlying this unique growth habit.

"COCO-AI", a new Horizon Europe project coordinated by Fraunhofer IME, combines artificial intelligence and plant cell culture to develop a scalable platform for producing high-value natural ingredients without farmland. Using cocoa as its first demonstration, the project aims to strengthen Europe's bio-manufacturing capacity while reducing dependence on climate-vulnerable agricultural supply chains.

We are happy to join in celebrating the third International Day of Potato.

Did you know potato is one of the most nutrient-rich, climate-resilient, and economically vital crops on Earth?
Potato research and development is one of our key areas at Fraunhofer IME in Aachen and Münster. We conduct our research and development projects jointly with breeders. These projects cover topics such as improving yield, increasing pathogen resistance, and effectively using sidestreams, as well as developing tools to accelerate breeding.

On May 29, 2026, Timon Gremmels, Hessians Minister of Science, visited the Fraunhofer IME in Giessen as part of the research project “AquaInsect – Innovative Aquaculture Feed from Insects.” Through this research project, the Hessians Ministry of Science is supporting innovative solutions for more sustainable food production. In the project, Damm Aquakultur GmbH is collaborating with the Fraunhofer IME, Justus Liebig University Giessen, and Illucens GmbH & Co. KG to develop a novel shrimp feed based on insect protein—completely free of fish meal.

Germany is leading the new OECD project 3.22 of the Test Guideline Programme to develop a testing protocol adapting OECD TG 321 for testing the bioaccumulation potential of engineered nanomaterials using the freshwater amphipod Hyalella azteca. The method development and refinement have been done by the Fraunhofer IME with financial support of the German Environment Agency (Umweltbundesamt – UBA) and the German Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space (BMFTR).

Fraunhofer IME plans to perform an international comparison study, scheduled for summer/fall 2026 – spring 2027. 

Today, on May 12th, we join the global community in recognizing the International Day of Plant Health.

At Fraunhofer IME, we contribute to the advancement of plant health research and innovation. Plant health is crucial for ensuring food security, protecting the environment, and promoting sustainable agriculture. Through our cutting-edge research and collaborations, we strive to develop innovative solutions to combat plant diseases, pests, and other threats.