Fraunhofer Institute for Molecular Biology and Applied Ecology IME

The core competencies of the 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. 

OECD test guideline published on June 25, 2024 covering the Hyallela azteca Bioconcentration Test (HYBIT). The test guideline provides a non-vertebrate test for bioconcentration in aquatic environments. We perform the Hyalella bioconcentration test with animals raised in the laboratory of Fraunhofer IME under standardized conditions. Fraunhofer IME offers testing adhering to GLP (Good Laboratory Practice) principles.

A collaborative study between researchers from the Fraunhofer IME and the Max Planck Institute for Plant Breeding Research has shown how a single metabolite can render bacteria toxic to plants under high salt conditions. Their findings may have important implications for agriculture and plant health in changing climates.

Today, May 30, 2024, we celebrate the first ever International Potato Day!

The global impact of potato is incredible
🥔 3rd most consumed food crop globally
🥔 159 countries cultivate it
🥔 5 000 varieties worldwide

We have a long history of working with our partners to advance the potato, from tools for accelerated breeding to pathogen detection.

Let`s celebrate UN International Day of Plant Health!

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.

Scientists from the Fraunhofer IME Schmallenberg will be presenting their research work at the following trade fair:

SETAC Europe 2024 in Sevilla

Woche der Umwelt in Berlin

Achema 2024 in Frankfurt

From May 5th to 9th, 2024 the 34th SETAC Europe Annual Meeting will take place in Seville, Spain, with scientists from Europe and overseas. Biologists and chemists from Fraunhofer IME presented their research results from the scientific networks in numerous lectures and posters.

Read the abstracts of our scientists now.

As of March 1^st, 2024, Prof. Dr Christoph Schäfers has been appointed to the management of the Fraunhofer Institute for Molecular Biology and Applied Ecology IME and will now lead the institute with its four locations together with Prof. Dr Stefan Schillberg...