Research News and Press Releases

A perspective article in Genetics argues for an experimental paradigm change to capture complex gene effects in combination with environment and genetic background. more

In species-rich communities, a familiar pattern keeps showing up: a few species are common, many remain rare — and the mix of species can shift over time. Researchers show that this “shape” can be captured surprisingly well with just three basic ingredients. more

In Pseudomonas fluorescens SBW25, mat formation emerges within days — and the secret lies in scaffolding, dispersal, and a molecular switch between staying put and moving on. more

A new study by researchers at Kiel University and MPI-EvolBio describes how more efficient protein production drives the adaptation of fungi to the human body, potentially turning previously harmless species into emerging pathogens. more

What happens when a scientific community creates space not only for research results, but also for honest conversations about how science is practiced? A new open-access Perspective article in Evolution captures the central themes and practical takeaways from the “Women in Evolutionary Biology Workshop”, held from May 14 to 16, 2024, at the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Biology. more

A recent commentary published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS) discusses and contextualises research led by scientists at the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Biology on jumbo phage – mediated transfer of mobile genetic elements (Zhao et al.) more

A behavioral experiment shows that a completely uncooperative behavioral strategy undermines climate protection efforts even when disasters are looming more